Summary
Volunteers Michelle and Bob Howard have removed over 56,000 pieces of debris from the Alamitos Bay channel by kayak since the pandemic, inspiring the Aquarium of the Pacific's annual kayak cleanup. The commission formally recognized their work and discussed ways to support it, including publicity and fundraising.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Aug 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
The work is volunteer-run with no city funding; recycling refunds cover some costs.
Beachgoers, marine life, and waterfowl in Alamitos Bay and around Mother's Beach.
Marine Bureau maintenance staff bear added cleanup burdens from litter and vandalism.
Mentions & discussions (6)
Marine Advisory Commission Marine and Beach Maintenance/Operations Committee - Aug 13, 2026
Crews removed 116 tons of debris in June and 189 tons in July, and new ADA beach-access mats are being installed at Alamitos Beach and Mother's Beach within the next month.
Long Beach’s City Beach tops California for cleanliness complaints
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Marine Advisory Commission - Jun 11, 2026
Volunteers Michelle and Bob Howard have removed over 56,000 pieces of debris from the Alamitos Bay channel by kayak since the pandemic, inspiring the Aquarium of the Pacific's annual kayak cleanup. The commission formally recognized their work and discussed ways to support it, including publicity and fundraising.
Marine Advisory Commission Marine and Beach Maintenance/Operations Committee - May 14, 2026
Commissioners flagged heavy litter along the Junipero Beach access road and trash washing up from higher tides. Staff said 292 tons were removed in March and promised quicker responses to emailed complaints.
Marine Advisory Commission - Apr 9, 2026
Commissioners flagged dirty drinking fountains, litter at the sailing centers, and 292 tons of monthly beach trash. Staff plan a public campaign to encourage visitors to pack out their own trash.
Marine Advisory Commission Marine and Beach Maintenance/Operations Committee - Feb 12, 2026
Crews finally finished clearing all the debris from November and December storms, hauling 466 tons of trash off the beaches in January alone. Recent rain brought a smaller new round of debris.
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