Not only can litter be an eyesore, it also can have a horrendous effect on the ecosystem, and that’s why local officials are participating in the annual Alabama Coastal Cleanup — to help eliminate it from the area.

The coastal cleanup is an annual initiative that works on two different levels, the actual cleanup and educating the public about how litter problems affect water quality.

Wofford said that litter is recognized as one of main water pollutants in the local area.

“Any trash discarded, if not picked up, will eventually end up in a water way,” said Janet Wofford, zone captain of the Conecuh-Sepulga & Blackwater Rivers Clean Water Partnership. “Which for us is the Pensacola Bay.”

She said once it makes its way into the water it is harmful to wildlife as they can become tangled in such items as plastic bags or can mistake litter as food, swallow and choke on plastic bits of straws, food containers, etc.

“Not to mention, cigarette butts, which are designed to last indefinitely and carry many chemicals and carcinogens which are harmful to wildlife, waterways and groundwater,” she said. “Additionally, items such as plastic bags, cups, aluminum cans can hold rainwater and serve as breeding ground for mosquitoes.”

The event is set for Sat., Sept. 17.

“For several years, our efforts have constituted the largest inland group participation in this event,” she said. “The Alabama Coastal Cleanup is not just about pollution cleanup; it is also about pollution prevention.”

Wofford said this is a great project for neighborhoods, civic groups, church groups, scouts, school groups – really anyone.

Garbage bags, gloves and data cards will be provided,” she said. “T-shirts will be available on first come, first serve basis.

Volunteers are encouraged to locate a cleanup site and contact Wofford for more information.

Wofford said so far they have 11 groups who have committed to help cleaning up the 11-county area from Century, Fla., to Montgomery.

For more info or to commit to help, call Wofford at 334-488-4511 or