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Pitch in at cleanup for cash prizes

Suncoast Aqua Ventures is hosting the Eighth Annual Suncoast Reef and Beach Cleanup, which offers a unique opportunity to win money and prizes while having a positive effect on the coastal environment.

Mark your calendar for Sept. 28-29 to participate in the event at Terra Ceia Sea Breeze Park.

The Reef and Beach Cleanup is not your typical beach cleanup. This unique event turns trash collection into a competitive sport. Cash prizes will be awarded in several categories, including most recyclables, most tires, most anchors and most shoes. Those with access to a boat can even clean up underwater, ensuring our reefs are as pristine as our beaches. Whether you’re a land lover or a certified SCUBA diver, there’s a way for everyone to participate.

Since its inception in 2016, Suncoast Aqua Ventures has mobilized over 2,200 volunteers who have collectively removed an amazing 182,000 pounds of trash from our coastlines and underwater environments. What began as a small local effort has blossomed into a movement that has brought together community members, environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts from all walks of life.

Cheryl Huntsinger, president of Suncoast Aqua Ventures, reflected on the origins of the event, saying, “We started this organization after witnessing the sheer amount of human debris littering our coastlines and underwater habitats. We knew something had to be done, and what better way to tackle the problem than by bringing people together in a fun, competitive environment? It’s incredible to see how much we’ve accomplished in just a few short years.”

The Eighth Annual Reef and Beach Cleanup is more than just a day of trash collection – it’s a celebration of community, conservation and the power of collective action. Whether you’re here for the competition or to enjoy a day by the water, your participation helps protect our coastal environment for future generations.

Join the group in making a difference while having a blast. Who can collect the most trash and walk away with not just cash, but the satisfaction of knowing they’ve helped keep our shores and reefs clean?

Register at https://suncoastaquaventures.com/event/8th-annual-reef-beach-cleanup/.

For more information, visit www.suncoastaquaventures.com or email Cheryl Huntsinger at suncoastaquaventures@gmail.com.

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