Coastal Cleanups

Leaders in the Community

Leadership in science shouldn’t stop in the workplace, it should be represented in the community as well. Dirigo Science Connection leads the way in South Portland, ME when it comes to keeping our coast clean!

Why We Do Coastal Cleanups in South Portland

South Portland sits along Casco Bay, one of Maine's most ecologically and economically important waterways. The city's shoreline — including popular spots like Willard Beach, Bug Light Park, and the Greenbelt Walkway — faces constant pressure from litter, storm runoff, and marine debris washing ashore. Coastal cleanups exist because this pollution doesn't remove itself. Tides bring in debris from the open ocean, storms flush trash from streets and storm drains into the bay, and everyday use of public spaces leaves behind waste that accumulates quickly if not addressed.

A young girl with brown hair, wearing a white shirt, orange shorts, and colorful socks, sitting on rocks by the water, waving with her right hand while wearing a blue glove. There is a white bucket with crumpled paper and a plastic bottle in front of her.

What We Find On Our Coast Line

Close-up of rocky ground with a blue-gloved hand holding a green plastic bag, a shoe stepping on the rocks, and a blue and black sneaker nearby.

Plastics

Plastic bottles, bags, food wrappers, and microplastics are among the most commonly found items during beach cleanups.

A discarded McDonald's box with French fries on the ground among grass and pebbles.

Paper

Paper and cardboard products are frequently found during Maine coastal cleanups, though they degrade faster than plastics. Common items include cups, plates, napkins, and food packaging left by beachgoers and tourists.

Close-up of a pile of small, rounded stones with black, brown, and gray colors on a beach, with tangled light blue plastic debris intertwined among the stones.

Fishing Gear

Discarded and lost monofilament fishing line is particularly dangerous to marine wildlife, causing entanglement in seabirds, seals, and sea turtles. It can take an estimated 600 years to decompose.

How Can You Help Every Day?

Carry a Bag

Carry a small bag when you walk the beach, a trail, or the Greenbelt and pick up any litter you see — even just a few pieces makes an impact.

Reduce What You Bring

Reduce what you bring. Use reusable bottles, bags, and containers when heading to the beach or parks.

Proper Disposal

Dispose of waste properly, especially near the water. Secure trash so wind doesn't carry it into the bay.

Share Your Ideas

Talk about it. Letting friends, neighbors, and kids know why it matters builds a culture of stewardship.

Remove Fishing Line

Cut or remove any fishing line, rope, or netting you find caught on rocks or washed ashore — these are some of the most dangerous items for wildlife.

Join a Cleanup

Join local efforts with groups like Dirigo Science Connection or the South Portland Land Trust.