Big kudos to Newport Chapter of Surfrider Foundation's Beach and Highway Cleanup Coordinator Vince Pappalardo and OPRD's Beach Ranger Ryan Parker for their leadership, as well as all of the volunteers that came out for the cleanup at the Otter Rock Marine Reserve, in the northern marine gardens earlier this month. The group removed over 2,000 lbs of asphalt from the beach and marine gardens! For more photos of the event go here.
Oregon Parks and Recreation had identified the area in need of cleanup, as asphalt eroding from the cliff side parking lot of the Inn at Otter Crest is falling down beachside of the marine gardens and marine reserve. More than a recreational hazard, the eroding asphalt presents environmental and habitat concerns amongst our members to the newly protected area. As such, the Newport Chapter of Surfrider Foundation is interested in pursuing sensible solutions from dynamic revetment to managed retreat to help protect this special place and prevent further environmental hazards. If you're interested in getting involved, please contact oregon@surfrider.org.