Beachcombers, beach lovers, Cameron Parish-proud peeps, do-gooders and get-’er-done types are invited to join the effort to keep the Cameron Parish coastlines pristine every day. To have the most fun doing it, win prizes, receive giveaways like a beach towel and get a free lunch, register online for the Cameron Parish Beach Sweep, Saturday, Sept. 21, 8:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Lunch is 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. (Registering online lets event planners know how many giveaways to bring and how much food to prepare.)

“One year I found a plastic butter bowl lid in another language. That’s my favorite find so far,” said Susan Boudreaux who uses lots of butter for her cookie making. The way Boudreaux talked, finding a set of false teeth is fairly commonplace in a cleanup that’s been going on for at least 36 years.

She credited now-retired 4-H leader and Louisiana Agricultural Cooperative Extension Agent Kevin Savoie for starting and continuing the tradition until around 2020.

Prizes will be awarded for “the most unusual find,” number of bottle caps collected and found flip flops and other soft items that turtles tend to eat which isn’t good for them.

“Most of the trash is brought in by the tide rather than litter left behind by people,” Boudreaux said, adding that it will be interesting to see what Francine blew in.

Participants will be provided with gloves, trash bags and data cards to record the types of litter collected. The information gathered will contribute to a global database that helps researchers and policymakers address marine debris issues.

“We are excited to be a part of this international effort to protect our coastlines and marine ecosystems,” said Michele Long, chairman of the Cameron Parish Beachfront Development District #1, in an online article. “Our communities take pride in our natural resources, and this event is a great opportunity for everyone to come together and make a positive impact.”      

Boudreaux is a sponsor for the Cameron Parish Beachfront Development District #2, which is east of the Calcasieu River and includes Rutherford and Broussard beaches. District #1 is Holly Beach, west. Participants can choose a beach/district. Go to https://cameronpj.org to sign up.

Wear comfortable clothing, sun protection and closed-toe shoes. Water will be supplied or participants may bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

The event is part of the International Coastal Cleanup initiated by the Ocean Conservancy, the world’s largest volunteer effort to clean up the marine environment.

Email Boudreaux at sbound21@gmail.com  or call her at 337-w513-6921 for more information. Long’s email address is mlong0813@yahoo.com and her phone number is (409) 893-2154.