Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Volunteers across coastal Alabama are being asked to give a few hours to protect the beaches, bays, and waterways that draw millions of visitors each year. The 39th Annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup is one of the state's best-known conservation events, and organizers say anyone can participate. The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon and includes a wide range of sites, such as neighborhoods, local parks, streets, and storm drains. Participants can visit alabamacoastalcleanup.com to find a cleanup zone and sign up.

This year's cleanup is set for Saturday, September 19, 2026, marking the 39th year Alabama has participated in the International Coastal Cleanup, a global initiative that began here in 1987. Since then, more than 110,000 volunteers have helped collect trash from the state's coastline and waterways. Organizers say the turnout each year reflects how much Gulf Coast residents care about keeping their communities clean.

The event is coordinated by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' State Lands Division, Coastal Section, and Alabama People Against a Littered State (Alabama PALS). Organizers note that litter picked up on land does not always remain there. Trash travels through storm drains, streams, and rivers, eventually polluting Mobile Bay and the Gulf.

Volunteers are encouraged to use the CleanSwell app, provided by Ocean Conservancy, to log what they collect during the event. The app helps track the types and amounts of trash removed from coastal areas nationwide. Data collected through the app contributes to a broader national picture of coastal pollution trends.

Safety is a priority for the event, especially during the late-summer heat. Organizers advise all participants to drink plenty of fluids, apply sunscreen, and supervise children at all times. Volunteers are also asked to avoid lifting heavy objects alone and to exercise caution near sand dunes and other fragile ecosystems.

The cleanup has strong sponsorship from local and regional organizations. Sponsors listed on the event website include Coca-Cola United, the City of Orange Beach, the City of Gulf Shores, the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, NOAA, Alabama Power, Home Depot, and Alfa Insurance. Flora-Bama and LuLu's at Homeport are among the Gulf Coast venues supporting the annual cleanup.

Anyone who wants to help protect Alabama's coast can register online at alabamacoastalcleanup.com and select a cleanup zone that matches their location.