Say NO to Trash!

Mema and Papaw just spent nine days at the beach. It’s one of Mema’s favorite places. One thing that really makes Papaw sad is when people leave trash on the ground. Sometimes it is right by the trash cans! I know that animals like raccoons and squirrels can pull things out of trash cans and add to the litter on the ground, but most of it comes from us humans. I saw plastic bags, wrappers, water bottles, and even old socks on the beach. I try to pick up the things I come across, but one person can only do so much. Also, sometimes it may not be healthy to clean something up without gloves.

Here are some helpful guidelines when you are out enjoying nature.

1. If you drop it, pick it up. If you make a mess, help clean it up.

2. Put wrappers in your pocket  or a bag until you can find a trash can. Most places have them spaced all around.

3. Leave an area you use for camping, a picnic, or other activity cleaner than when you arrived.

4. Try to pick up any trash directly in your path. If everyone did this, there wouldn’t be any trash.

5. Be responsible with the things you use. If it’s a windy day be sure everything is secure. Make sure animals can’t get to it.

6 Recycle if possible.

7. Don’t throw trach in the recycle bins. It makes a real mess for those recycling it.

If we all do our part, we will have cleaner parks, beaches, and roadways. It will also help the animals. We don’t want them eating trash and then getting sick!

Have fun this summer!

Love, Papaw