Protecting Our Coast: City Hosts Virtual Meeting on Marine Debris Reduction 

A cleaner ocean starts here in Long Beach. The City of Long Beach is launching a new initiative to keep trash and debris out of local waterways and coastal areas — and the community is invited to learn more at a virtual meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Every year, debris from upstream communities makes its way down the Los Angeles River and into Long Beach’s waterways, beaches and marine habitats. The Marine Debris and Trash Capture System Project aims to change that. The new system will intercept debris before it reaches the ocean, protecting marine life and improving quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

During the virtual meeting, City staff and project consultants will share details about the project, including how it works, what’s being studied and how the findings will shape future efforts to keep Long Beach’s waterways clean. Participants will also have the opportunity to share input and ask questions about local pollution concerns.

The project is funded in part through a 2022 settlement award from Monsanto, following a lawsuit related to decades of waterway contamination caused by polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

Virtual Community Meeting

Date: Wednesday, Nov. 12

Time: 6–7:30 p.m.

Zoom: Register online

Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Interpretation services will be available in Spanish, Khmer and Tagalog, along with other accommodations upon request by Thursday, Nov. 6. Together, we can help keep Long Beach’s waterways clean for residents and visitors to enjoy. More information about the marine debris and trash capture project can be found on the project page.