The 23rd annual SOLV Great Oregon Fall Beach Cleanup will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 15. Thousands of volunteers are needed to participate at 42 sites up and down the Oregon Coast. To participate, just check in, pick up a litter bag, and head down to the beach. Groups of 20 or more are asked to register in advance. SOLV suggests volunteers bring gloves, wear sturdy shoes and be safe while removing marine debris and litter.

For a list of registration sites, visit www.solv.org or call SOLV at (503) 844-9571 or toll free in Oregon, 1-800-333-SOLV.

SOLV is proud to be a front runner in the clean beach movement that began in 1984. Since then, SOLV has worked to collect more than 1,000 tons of trash with the help of nearly 175,000 volunteers. With every foot of Oregon's 363-mile coast line being scoured, SOLV is hopeful for another record-setting event this year.

"Marine debris takes a heavy toll on the environment, wildlife and even the local economy. We hope everyone who enjoys the beach's splendor takes their environmental duty seriously and joins us in this great event," says Jack McGowan, SOLV executive director.

Founded in 1969 by Oregon Governor Tom McCall to address litter and vandalism problems, SOLV has expanded to reach every county in the state and to bring together government agencies, businesses and individuals in programs and projects to enhance the livability of Oregon.

Democrat-Herald