Volunteer Job Description for Clean Ocean Action:
BEACH SWEEPS CAPTAIN
Title: “Beach Captain” for Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweeps
Supervisor: Kira Cruz, Debris Free Sea Coordinator
Goal: Lead a local beach cleanup as part of statewide (and international) effort to stop ocean pollution. The data collected about debris at your local site will help spread the message about the dangers of litter in the marine environment.
If you're interested in this opportunity and meet the qualifications below, please fill out the Beach Sweeps Captain Interest Form.
Major Responsibilities:
- Post/distribute flyers locally and spread the word about the cleanup at assigned site
- Assist in the organization of the cleanup with local officials and public works department
- Instruct volunteers at cleanup site
- Oversee debris (trash and recyclables) collection and placement
- Tally data from volunteers’ data cards
- Submit data to COA office within two weeks of Beach Sweeps
Time Commitments:
- 2 Saturdays each year (1 in April and 1 in late October, depending upon your availability)
- 8:30am-1pm on each Saturday (actual event is 9am-12:30pm)
- 2 hours to post flyers in area of cleanup site one month prior to event
- 2-4 hours to compile data within one week after cleanup event
- 1 hour (evening) for Beach Captain Training Session and Materials Pickup
Qualifications:
- Physical ability to walk the beach; some ability needed to lift medium size trash bags
- Communication skills and ability to spread word about the Sweeps (post flyers, make phone calls, send emails)
- Enthusiasm for the environment
- Must be at least 18 years of age. If under 18, a parent/guardian must be able to supervise throughout the Beach Sweeps. If you are age 15-18, apply to be a Junior Beach Captain.
Training Preparations:
No previous experience is necessary. Guidelines, tips, and necessary materials will be provided by Clean Ocean Action. New Beach Captains must attend a Beach Captain Training Session held in the spring and fall prior to each Beach Sweeps. If you are unable to attend the training, the Beach Captain must make arrangements to meet with the Debris Free Sea Coordinator at least one month prior to the Beach Sweeps.
Work Location:
Local ocean, lake, river, or stream shore as determined by Clean Ocean Action or chosen by Beach Captain.
Benefits to the Volunteer:
- Remove debris that litters beaches and endangers marine life
- Make a difference in your community
- Be part of a statewide (international in the fall) citizen science event
- Meet people who share goal to improve and protect the environment
