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Outer Boston Harbor Island Cleanup

An historic cleanup effort to preserve the Boston Harbor Islands and its natural treasures

About the Cleanup

The Boston Harbor Islands are undergoing 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 is 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, trained volunteers and community members will collaborate to collect, document, recycle, and properly dispose of derelict fishing gear, vessel parts, and other debris.

Partners Involved

These partners, along with other supporting agencies and nonprofit groups, have come together to ensure the success of this monumental cleanup.

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park logoNational Park Service LogoDCR LogoBoston Harbor Now Logo

Volunteer Opportunities

The public is invited to participate in two key ways:

  • “Sign Up for Pemberton Point Debris Sorting”
  • “Volunteer for Day Trips”

Upcoming Events

View All Events
Feb15

Winter Wander on Peddocks Island

Celebrate the season with a special winter excursion to Peddocks Island!

View Event Details

Maps & Resources

Document Title Description Download
Media Release Official Press Release of the Boston Harbor Islands Cleanup Download
Video and Photo Release Outer Islands Cleanup Video and Interview Consent and Release Form Download

This project was supported in part by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Grant with funding provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, by Department of Conservation and Recreation including American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding and by US Fish and Wildlife Service through their Natural Resource Damage Assessment and Restoration program on behalf of the natural resource Trustees for the Bouchard B-120 oil spill.

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