New beach clean up plan launching in Santa Cruz

The 4th of July Weekend is just around the corner and the City of Santa Cruz is launching a new plan to prevent beach toys and other trash from ending up in the ocean.

City leaders said the effort comes in response to community complaints about trash.

“The crowds increase tenfold, I mean we just see tourism pick up tremendously,” said Wharf Supervisor Jon Bombaci.

More people on the beach is great for the local economy, but Bombaci says it also puts a burden on staff members

“It’s all trending the same direction, more people more trash.”

“There is a lot of garbage around. It’s not fun and it gets in the water. You can tell it gets a bit murkier and the sand isn’t as easy to get through,” said Bay Area residents Harrison and Priscilla Verdine.

The city plans to put out bins specifically for unwanted beach toys which will be donated to local charities and day-cares.

“It’s a very good, creative approach. If they don’t want to take them home, they’ll have the option to just drop them in the bin,” said Bombaci.

Anti-litter signs will also go up near the beach and at entry points into the city.

The recycling bins will be available on several beaches during the Fourth of July weekend.