Michele Klimczak, FIConservancy’s Marine Debris Coordinator hauls debris from Fishers Island beach. Ian Lockey Photo
Fishers Island is being inundated with marine debris: Fishers Island Conservancy has cleared and hauled away over 10 tons in the past two years.
Michele Klimczak, FIConservancy’s Marine Debris Coordinator, has the monumental task of clearing this pollution year-round to help conserve our Island and protect our wildlife and community. But there’s still more shoreline to cover and more debris to collect.
We need your help! Sign up here.
Last summer, dozens of Islanders joined in our beach cleanup efforts, contributing to THOUSANDS of pounds of marine debris being cleared from Fishers Island’s shores. Will you join us this year? Here’s how:
How to Become a Shoreline Superstar
Step 1: Sign up here!
Step 2: Review our Beach Cleanup Safety Guidelines below.
Step 3: Gather friends and family and bring a bag to the beach.
Step 4:
- Text Michele at 631-800-9394 whenever you have a full bag so she can collect the debris & snap a photo of you and your haul.
- OR, you can take your own photo, drop your bag at the FIConservancy truck by the movie theater and text Michele your photo and beach clean up location.
Step 5: Repeat steps 3 & 4 when you can.
Michele will weigh and sort the debris, properly disposing of anything that cannot be reused.
The three teams that collect the most marine debris throughout the summer will receive prizes!
Together, we can help conserve Fishers Island and its waters. JOIN US HERE.
Enormous thanks to Michele for her passion and hard work and to you for your continued support. Together, we can “Keep it Clean” to help conserve beautiful Fishers Island.
See you on the beach!
IMPORTANT: Beach Cleanup Safety Guidelines
Rusted metal, hypodermic needles, glass and sharp plastic are commonly encountered during beach cleanup. The following guidelines should be followed to ensure safety.
What to bring:
- Large bags, preferably reusable, in which to place the debris
- A “sharps container” for items found such as metal or glass
- A trash/debris nabber, if you have one
What to wear:
- Thick work gloves to protect your hands
- Fully enclosed, supportive shoes (no sandals or open-toed shoes)
- Long pants are preferable, and don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat
What to do:
- Bags should be carried an arm’s length from body for your safety
- Follow the steps listed above and have fun!
