By Adrienne Brown-Reasner
West Michigan Tourist Association

Inland Seas Education Association (ISEA) is participating in The Alliance for the Great Lakes day of action on Saturday, Sept. 26. There will be a morning and afternoon “beach” clean up in Traverse City neighborhoods. Volunteers are asked to register so the organization has enough supplies for everyone.

The beach cleanups are taking place from 9 a.m. – noon (Sunset Park to F and M Park) and from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. (Randolph Street to Dog Park).

“We are all so lucky to live in an area that cares for our beaches,” shared Rachel Ratliff, ISEA Great Lakes Educator. “Even though many of them are well kept, any litter in our area is in danger of becoming beach trash.”

Many organizations choose to clean up beaches, but ISEA chose neighborhoods close to the water because one rainstorm or wind event can carry hundreds of improperly discarded items from the streets into our storm drains, onto the beach, or in the water.

Participants are encouraged to register at schoolship.org/news-events/beach-cleanup. Detailed information will then be emailed to them. Participants are also asked to dress for the weather, wear a mask, and bring any pickup assistance (e.g., reacher/grabber) they would like. Trash bags and gloves will be provided.

Inland Seas Education Association is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Suttons Bay, Mich., dedicated to STEM education on the Great Lakes. Its shipboard and shore-side education programs are designed to inspire people of all ages to provide for the long-term stewardship of the Great Lakes. ISEA offers programs to schools, groups, and the public. For further information, contact Inland Seas Education Association at 231-271-3077 or on the web at www.schoolship.org.