About the Cleanup
During the fall of 2024, The Boston Harbor Islands underwent a once-in-a-generation cleanup to restore their natural beauty and ecological health. Spearheaded by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) and the Center for Coastal Studies (CCS), this initiative focuses on removing significant marine debris from five key islands: Great Brewster, Middle Brewster, Outer Brewster, Calf, and Lovells Islands.
This historic effort was supported by a coalition of federal, state, and local partners, including the National Park Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Boston Harbor Now, and more. From September 13-22, 2024, trained volunteers and community members collaborated to collect, document, recycle, and properly dispose of derelict fishing gear, vessel parts, and other debris. Watch the recap video below to learn more.
