40 Years of Action: Volunteers Needed for Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweep in Ocean City

Local residents, families, and community groups are invited to roll up their sleeves and pitch in for a cleaner coast. Volunteers are currently being sought for the semi-annual Clean Ocean Action Beach Sweep, which is scheduled for Saturday, October 18, 2025, in Ocean City.

The Beach Sweep is a statewide initiative that runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. All interested participants must register in advance at the Clean Ocean Action website.

 Here’s what you need to know:

• When: Saturday, October 18, 2025
• Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Where to Check In: The Ocean City Music Pier (825 Boardwalk). All registered volunteers must check in here before beginning the cleanup.
• What to Bring: Volunteers are strongly encouraged to bring their own bucket and gloves to help reduce the use of single-use plastic bags during the collection process.

More Than Just a Cleanup: The Science Behind the Sweep

While removing unsightly litter from the sand is a primary goal, the Beach Sweep serves a larger scientific purpose. Volunteers meticulously document every piece of debris they collect—from cigarette filters and plastic bags to fishing line and unique items.

Clean Ocean Action compiles this extensive data into a detailed annual report. This information is then used to track pollution trends, identify sources of marine debris, and advocate for stronger pollution prevention laws at the local, state, and federal levels. Your morning’s work directly contributes to policy changes that protect ocean health for years to come.

About Clean Ocean Action

The event is organized by Clean Ocean Action (COA), a powerful coalition of over 125 groups, businesses, and organizations committed to protecting the marine water quality of the New Jersey/New York coast.

Since its founding in 1984, COA has used a three-pronged approach —research, education, and citizen action —to fight ocean pollution. The organization has a long record of successful campaigns, including the closure of eight historical ocean dumping sites and the implementation of strong new clean water laws.

By participating in the Beach Sweep, Ocean City volunteers join a vast network of “Ocean Wavemakers” dedicated to ensuring a cleaner, healthier sea for marine life and future generations of beachgoers.

You can sign up and find additional details about the organization’s mission and events on the official website, cleanoceanaction.org. Come out on October 18th and be the solution to ocean pollution!