VOLUNTEERS FLOCK TO KEISS BEACH
Almost
30 volunteers turned out last Saturday to take part in a local beach clean
and monitor at Keiss beach. The clean-up was organised by the rangers in
The Highland Council's Planning and Development Service as part of the
national Beachwatch event, the most extensive monitoring programme in
Europe for coastal and marine litter.
The volunteers cleared large amounts of
unwanted debris and litter along the rocky section of the shore between
the harbour and Stain. Members of the Caithness Critters and the Caithness
Countryside Volunteers turned out in force and with help from local
residents, created a strong hit squad. The types and quantities of litter
were recorded and removed to ensure that the surveyed stretch of beach was
rubbish free.
Beach litter is more than just an
eyesore as particular items such as nets and rope can post a threat
to wildlife. 177 different species of marine animals are known to
mistake litter for food, which can block their digestive system. In
February this year, a rare Cuvier's beaked whale washed up dead on Mull.
Inside the whale's stomach a large number of plastic bin bags were found
blocking part of the gut.
Marina Finlayson, East Caithness Ranger
and beach clean organiser said: "It was fantastic to see the amount of
support for this clean-up as without the efforts of volunteers, it would
not happen. Much of the
debris has been on this section of beach for quite some time and there was
a great deal to collect. The volunteers did a wonderful job and have made
the beach a cleaner, safer place to visit for the general public and
wildlife alike. Many thanks to everyone who turned up and to the
Moray Firth Partnership for funding the volunteer refreshments." |