Coonamessett Farm Foundation's mission is to conduct scientific research and educational projects that support sustainable fisheries operations, local small-scale agriculture and aquaculture, and renewable energy sources for the benefit of the public.
Falmouth Beach Cleanup Removes Over 137 Pounds of Marine Debris
Video Recap
As part of our ongoing beach cleanup series supported by our DMF grant, Coonamessett Farm Foundation recently hosted the second of three planned cleanups at Chapoquoit Beach in Falmouth, Massachusetts.
A total of 20 volunteers participated in the effort, working together to remove 62.4 kilograms (137.5 pounds) of debris from the shoreline. Conditions for the cleanup included temperatures in the high 40s, with sunny skies and light winds.
One of the most notable findings of the day was the largest piece of debris collected so far—an entire Zodiac boat that had become lodged in the rip rap along the beach. Much of the debris at this site was similarly caught in the rocks, though a significant amount was also found scattered across the sand.
Plastic proved to be the most prevalent type of debris collected, with 119 individual pieces recorded. Volunteers also removed a wide range of other materials, including wood (44 pieces), metal (43), cigarette butts (42), rope and line (41), and miscellaneous items (24). Additional debris included bottles (8), straws (6), foam (5), glass (2), and trap components (1). A piece of net recovered from the rocks weighed 6.48 pounds on its own.
These cleanups not only help to remove harmful debris from coastal environments, but also provide valuable insight into the types and distribution of marine litter accumulating along our shores.
With one more cleanup remaining in this series, we look forward to continuing this work and engaging the community in protecting our local coastlines.
Sign Up for our cleanup in Sandwich on 5/23 now
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