Our neighborhood action to clean up our waterways by cleaning our neighborhood was a success…a blistering, steaming, hot success. I am excited and looking toward the future. Here are the results:

• 17 individuals from 6 families, 9 adults and 8 children participated
  
• 15 trash bags filled
  
• 2 square miles cleaned

Poundage could not be determined but I would estimate each bag weighed 20-30 pounds.

Most numerous items:

1. plastic bottles
2. cigarette butts
3. glass and aluminum

This year we set modest expectations and exceeded them. We’ll use this success as a platform to raise the bar next time. Given the extreme heat and vigorous vegetation we encountered, I am now leaning toward a bi-annual spring and fall cleanup.

Our first major objective will be to improve awareness through professionally made signs, enlistment of the many community marquees, and announcements in the Beacon and on WHRV public radio. Our second objective will be the doubling of the turn out. Our third objective will be increased participation from the City of Virginia Beach.

I truly think we can grow and sustain a bi-annual commitment if we schedule and market effectively.

Between now and the next event, I’ll be thinking about sustainable solutions for situations like the horrible conditions on N. Lynnhaven by Farm Fresh.

I applaud the families - adults and children alike - who are taking responsibility for our community and our local environment. I hope you will continue to act, and from what I’ve experienced in my brief time knowing each of you, I expect you will. Here in King’s Grant we reside on a critical line of defense for the Lynnhaven River and Chesapeake Bay.

Until next time,

Kevin