It’s time for the 41st Annual Coastal Cleanup Sept. 20

It's time for the 41st Annual Coastal Cleanup Sept. 20

Published on September 02, 2025

Grab your gloves and bucket -- it's time for the 41st annual Coastal Cleanup!

Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or new to the cleanup event, this is your chance to protect San Mateo County's environment, neighborhoods and wildlife by reducing litter.

You never know what surprising items you might find while cleaning up -- past volunteers have found a wooden carved duck, Magic 8-ball and even a $900 check! One thing's for sure -- none of these items belong in nature.

This year, be on the lookout for a wooden treasure chest at various cleanup locations. Finders of the treasure chest will receive a prize!

Ready to clean up?

• Visit smchealth.org/ccd to sign up for a cleanup event near you; or

• Lead a self-led cleanup in your neighborhood any time of the year! Visit smchealth.org/cleanup for more information.

On the day of, remember your:

• Sun protection
• Reusable items - water bottle, gloves, bucket and trash grabbers
• Phone with the Clean Swell app downloaded to track your trash

Ready to go the extra mile?

A lot of the trash that gets removed on Coastal Cleanup is made from plastic like bottles and caps, bags, small foam pieces and food wrappers.

Coastal Cleanup can start at the grocery store by purchasing items in bulk and using reusable containers so that when you're ready to take your snacks and beverages on the go there is no chance that a gust of wind sweeps your empty chip bag away.

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