Beach Trash

We have an obligation to our environment and to our children and their children. We must preserve and protect the ecological system so that future generations can enjoy the Matagorda Bay area and its natural resources. One way that we can do this is to address the problem of marine debris - trash which has been put into the ocean. It can be cans, bottles, crates, rope, packing materials, bags, sheeting, fishing lines and net, net fragments, trawler webbing, cargo strapping bands, six-pack rings and any other man-made items.

There is also natural debris along our shores -- jellyfish, driftwood, sargassum weed, carcasses and other natural-occuring things. Natural debris, though, usually does not pose a threat to the ecology. For example, sargassum weed - also known as gulfweed - plays a big role in developing barrier island dunes. It is also a food source for many species of wildlife on our shores.

How can you do your part in preventing marine debris? The easiest and most obvious answer is not to leave anything behind when you visit the beach. There are organizations which organize beach clean-up events -- get involved!

Marine waste comes from many different places - land and the ocean. It comes from beach users, water runoff, sewage, landfills, rivers, galley waste and other waste from ships, waste from recreational boaters and fishermen, and from improper management practices.

Please dispose of your discarded monofilament line properly.

Dispose of litter properly, whether ashore or afloat.