The organization is looking for volunteers to participate in the annual Monofilament Madness Marine Cleanup on Saturday, October 31st. Since its inception in 1991, this cleanup has focused on removing discarded fishing line and other harmful debris from Lee County’s waterways and mangrove ecosystems.
This year, volunteers will tackle marine debris from both land and water at three Fort Myers Beach locations. Boaters and kayakers will launch from Salty Sam’s Marina, while The Mound House will serve as an additional launch location for paddlers. Volunteers who prefer to stay on land can join the walking cleanup from the Tunaskin Aquatic Apparel store on Fort Myers Beach.
Monofilament fishing line can be especially dangerous when left behind in the environment. It can become tangled in mangroves and pose a threat to birds, fish and other wildlife. Volunteers will also collect plastics, netting and other debris that has accumulated throughout local waterways and shorelines. Last year’s crews removed thousands of pounds of debris, including everything from fishing line and Styrofoam to a tractor tire and mailbox.
“Monofilament Madness allows us to reach places that are often difficult to access during a traditional cleanup,” said Trish Fancher, Executive Director of Keep Lee County Beautiful. “By having volunteers on boats, in kayaks and walking the shoreline, we can tackle debris from several directions and help protect some of Lee County’s most sensitive coastal habitats.”
Following the cleanup, all volunteers will be treated to an appreciation lunch to thank them for their time and hard work and to celebrate the day’s accomplishments.
Whether you are an experienced boater or paddler or would rather participate on foot, Monofilament Madness offers several ways to give back to the coastal environment. KLCB encourages individuals, families, businesses and community groups to register and be part of this long-standing Lee County tradition.
Sponsorships are open until October 15th to get your company logo on the custom Tunaskin event shirt. To register, learn more, or become a sponsor CLICK HERE.