Floatopia event raises concerns about beach safety and debris

Photo from keepitsurreal via Flickr

There is much debate over the alcohol ban at local beaches. Proponents of both sides have valid points, but no matter what side of the aisle you are on we can all agree: San Diego beaches are beautiful and we have the right to enjoy them in a clean and safe environment.

The Entertainer previously reported that the Spring Break 2010 version of Floatopia will be held this Saturday, March 20th. Floatopia, a huge gathering of local residents who take advantage of a loop hole in San Diego’s liquor laws, sees crowds of over 8,000 people.

Saturday is officially the first day of spring, and many people will be out along Mission Bay to celebrate the return of warmer weather. Local law enforcement, lifeguards, and safety personnel will be on scene to make sure those in the water and on the beach are safe.

In addition to public safety, the safety and cleanliness of Mission Bay is a concern. OUTNSD.com has launched a “Float Responsibly” campaign to help keep San Diego bays clean for residents.

Similar Floatopia events in the past have left the bay unusable for days, if not weeks, due to water pollution and trash left behind by event guests.

San Diego Parks and Recreation do not condone or support the event in any way, however in an effort to keep the bay clean, they will be placing extra trash cans around the bay as well large floating trashcans in the bay to help deal with the increased trash produced by such a large crowd.

Photo from mikebaird via Flickr

Throughout the day OUTNSD.com will be handing out garbage bags to attendees and providing them with an area to drop their trash at the end of the event. The initiative to “Float Responsibly” not only helps in the short term, but also helps maintain a healthy environment. OUTNSD.com will have the trash sorted and recycled.  Proceeds of recycling will be donated back to San Diego Parks and Recreation.

“What it comes down to is partying responsibly and keeping the bay safe for residents. We’re all locals and we take pride in our city. We want to keep it clean,” said co-founder of OUTNSD.com Griffin Thall.

So whether or not you want to participate, please remember to keep the bay clean. San Diego beaches and bays are here for us all to enjoy no matter if alcohol is involved or not.