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Leave Only Footprints
Leave only footprints beach protection initiative launches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach - GulfCoastNewsToday.com: News
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Leave only footprints beach protection initiative launches in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
Orange Beach, Ala -- Clean, safe beaches. That’s the message behind the Leave Only Footprints campaign that is a joint effort by the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
The Leave Only Footprints initiative requires beachgoers to take their belongings with them each night. Removing beach toys, tents, umbrellas and chairs keeps beach gear out of the way of endangered species such as the nesting sea turtles and their hatchlings, and out of the Gulf of Mexico.
It also clears the way for emergency and maintenance crews who must navigate the beach. Similar initiatives are already in place along coastal communities in the Florida Panhandle.
In 2015 both cities piloted similar programs, stepping up education efforts with representatives on beach, educating beachgoers about best practices while enjoying the natural resources. From March to July of last year, the City of Gulf Shores collected approximately 2,678 cubic yards of debris including 24,000 pounds of tent frames, umbrellas and chairs, in addition to the 4,400 pounds of plastic cups collected.
The updated ordinances in each city require that any equipment and personal items be removed from the beach after sunset each day. Any items not removed will be collected and discarded.
Keeping the beach clean for future visitors is an upshot of the Leave Only Footprints policy, which includes other safety and sustainability elements, as well.
Glass containers and excessive digging are also prohibited and holes dug should be refilled before leaving the beach. In addition, the ordinance prohibits loud music on the beach, all in the hope of preserving the safety, peace and beauty of the AlabamaGulfCoast.
The cities are working with Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism, the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber and local industry partners to implement a complete communications effort to let the public know about the new rules. The program is intended to be fully in place prior to spring 2016.
Follow along with the Leave Only Footprints initiative on Facebook and get more information on the program website at www.cleanisland.org.
I have said it before, take only pictures, leave only footprints ;-)
