What is involved in collecting marine debris?
First, you have to get to the beach. Along the southern coast, you can pretty much drive right up and park. Along the northern coast, you typically park at an established trailhead and then hike to the beach. Some beaches are very close to the road, though often down a steep hill, while others require backpacking skills and miles of hiking to reach. Once you're on the beach, it's simple: just collect debris items into the bag we give you and then bring it all back to a designated drop-off location when you're done.

What kinds of things should I pick up?
You'll typically see everything from plastic water bottles and chunks of styrofoam to fishing nets, tires, ropes, and other glass and metal objects. Pick up only what you can carry back to the designated pick up location. Never leave any bagged trash on the beach. You may run across items that are too large or heavy to move; please report these items at the check-in station so staff can make arrangements to remove them at a later time.

What safety considerations should I keep in mind?

Do I need to be physically fit?
Not necessarily. The wide, sandy beaches of the southern coast are very appropriate for young people or those looking for an easy stroll on the beach. However, the rocky, remote beaches of the northern coast are more challenging. Be prepared for hiking through damp forests before emerging onto the rugged (but dramatic!) beaches of the north. Watch out for beach logs, changing tides, and slippery rocks.

What clothing should I wear?
We suggest that you come prepared for any type of weather, rain or shine, warm or cold. Rain gear may be needed as well as sun protection. Water-resistant shoes and gloves are an absolute must. Day packs, snacks, and water are also good ideas, especially for long hikes.

For more detailed information on hiking in Washington's coastal wilderness areas (i.e. within Olympic National Park), take a look at the Park's helpful trip planner and wilderness regulations.

Do I need any special tools?
Not really, but a sharp knife, wire cutters, hacksaws, and small shovels can come in handy for those more tenacious debris items.

Will there be a free BBQ after the cleanup?
Yes, there will be several cookouts/chowder feeds this year, so please join us at the area nearest you:

Hobuck Beach - Host: Surfrider Foundation
Three Rivers Resort - Host: Surfrider Foundation
Kalaloch Campground - Host: YMCA Earth Service of Port Angeles
Griffiths-Priday State Park - Host:
Twin Harbors State Park - Host: Surfrider Foundation
Long Beach Peninsula Senior Center - Host: Grass Roots Garbage Gang

Where should I stay?
There are many good camping options, RV parks, inns, motels, and resorts up and down the coast. See these websites for ideas:

Clallam Bay / Sekiu Chamber of Commerce
Neah Bay Chamber of Commerce
Forks Chamber of Commerce
Ocean City Chamber of Commerce
Ocean Shores Chamber of Commerce
Gray's Harbor Chamber of Commerce
Westport Grayland Chamber of Commerce
Willapa Harbor Chamber of Commerce
Ocean Park Chamber of Commerce
Long Beach Peninsula Visitors' Bureau

Can I bring my dog?
The rules vary by location:

Within the Makah Reservation, dogs are allowed on Hobuck and Sooes Beaches.

Within Olympic National Park, dogs are not allowed on the remote, wilderness beaches. However, dogs are allowed at the following frontcountry locations within the Park: 1) from the parking lot 1/2 mile north of Rialto Beach southward to Ellen Creek and 2) at all beach access points between the Hoh Indian Reservation southward to Quinault Indian Reservation (which includes Ruby Beach, Beach 6, Beach 4, Kalaloch Campground, Kalaloch Lodge, Beach 2, Beach 1, and South Beach). Dogs in these locations must be leashed at all times, and pet waste must be immediately collected and placed in the nearest trash receptacle.

Dogs are allowed on Grenville Beach.

At the State Parks locations of the southern beaches (i.e. from Mocrocks Beach southward), dogs are permitted, but must be leashed at all times. Pet waste must be immediately collected and placed in the nearest trash receptacle.