**Overview:**
The coastal cleanup event at Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge in Fremont, CA, was a significant success. This refuge, spanning 30,000 acres, serves as a crucial habitat for migratory birds and endangered species. However, its location amid California’s tech hub and near the busy Rd 84 exposes it to considerable debris from wind and water.
After gathering at the visitor center for a brief orientation, participants received T-shirts and tools before heading to two designated pickup areas along Marshland Rd. The amount of trash along the road was striking. Despite the short time frame, our cleanup effort yielded over a dozen bags of waste, addressing the immediate threat to the refuge’s wildlife and habitat.
The event also included an educational quiz about recycling, engaging both children and adults in learning about environmental protection. All 11 families with 19 children who registered attended and participated enthusiastically.
**Impact:**
- **Environmental Improvement:** The cleanup contributed to a healthier and cleaner environment for the refuge’s wildlife.
- **Connection with Nature:** Participants enjoyed the refuge’s natural beauty and developed a deeper appreciation for the ecosystem.
- **Educational Experience:** Kids learned about recycling and environmental stewardship through interactive activities and quizzes.
- **Family Engagement:** The event fostered family bonding and created lasting memories centered around nature and conservation.
**Funding Allocation:**
- Total Expense: $399.98
- Customized Team Shirts: $194.98
- Rewards: $82.78
- Supplies (tongs, trash bags, water): $97.22
- Printings (estimated): $25.00
**Follow-Up Event:**
On June 18th, a storytime session was held at the local library, featuring the book “Can I Recycle This?” The book, which categorizes various types of trash and their appropriate disposal methods, helped children understand recycling practices.
**Future Plans:**
- **Neighborhood Cleanup:** Families will continue their environmental efforts with individual neighborhood cleanups, using the provided tongs to become Eco Warriors in their communities.
- **Recycling Center Visit:** A visit to the Fremont Recycling and Transfer Center is planned to offer insights into the waste management process and the journey of our trash.
Hooray for our Eco-Warriors!
Our cleanup at the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge was a fantastic event! After a quick meet-and-greet at the visitor center, we headed out to two designated areas.
The teamwork was incredible! In just one hour, we collected over a dozen bags of trash, making a real difference for the wildlife there.
To wrap up the morning, we had a fun and educational recycling quiz for the kids (and let's be honest, some curious adults too!). It was a great way to reinforce the importance of protecting our environment – everyone learned something new!
A big thank you to all 11 families and 19 kids who participated. You are true Eco-Warriors!
HOORAY! Our team shirts have arrvied, so are the pins. Looks good.
On 5ht May, We have done a field survey about the locations and logistics for Don Edwards Cleanup. Here are some updates.
Meeting Point:
For our upcoming cleanup effort, we've selected the Visitor Center as our meeting point. It offers convenient amenities including a picnic table, shed area, and Porta-Potties for our use.
Cleanup Locations:
Option 1: Tideland Trail (Rule out)
This 1.4-mile loop trail is situated close to the bay, characterized by its windy conditions and minimal trash accumulation.
Option 2: Marshlands Road to Pier
Along this route, we'll encounter significant amounts of trash scattered along Marshlands Road leading to the pier. It also offers few challenges, making it suitable for a group cleanup. Two parking points are available for easy access, and ample space allows our team to spread out efficiently.
Future Exploration:
In the following week, we plan to explore the La Riviere Marsh Trail as an additional cleanup location. We'll assess its suitability and potential for our ongoing efforts.
Fremont Coastal Cleanup Kick-off meeting
Meeting time: 25th April, 2024, 9:30 - 12:00 pm PT
Tonight, five family members attended the meeting where we shared ideas and drafted our event plan. The goal is to involve children in the cleanup effort while also educating them about the significance of recycling.
Here is meeting minutes：
Event Date： 19th May, 9：30 - 12：00 am PT
Event address: Don Edwards SF bay national wildlife refuge
Estimated group size: 8 families (siblings are welcome, estimated there will be 10 Adults and 14 kids)
Our slogan: Eco-Warriors in Action!
Event Agenda:
9:30- 9:45: Arriving, distribute tools, group picture
9:45 - 11:00 coastal cleanup, dividing into 2/3 teams and covering different areas.
11:00 - 12:00 after cleanup activity.
Upon returning to the meeting spot, allow the children to recycle whatever they collected and engage in a recycling-themed quiz.
Materials and budget planning:
please see attached picture for budget table.
Our Impact:
Our neighborhood coastal cleanup project promises multiple benefits for our community. By removing litter from our shores, we're preserving the natural beauty of our coastline and protecting marine life. We aim to engage at least 24 participants to make a significant impact. Through this initiative, we hope to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and inspire ongoing commitment to keeping our beaches clean and healthy.
Additionally, we're coordinating a follow-up session in collaboration with the city trash station. This includes organizing a group tour for the children, where they will have the opportunity to observe firsthand how workers meticulously separate trash into various categories. Our hope is that they will not only learn from this experience but also share their newfound knowledge with their friends and classmates, fostering a ripple effect of awareness and environmental responsibility.
Next steps:
Contact refuge center if permission is needed, Xiaoyan
Contact trash station for group tour, Cynthia
Invite around 5 families to join, All board
Gather the T-shirt Qty and size info.
Prepare the map (meeting point, cleanup areas)
