News Release

Island Cleanup and National Public Lands Day 2024

Volunteer throws debris from Assateague’s beach into a dumpster.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: September 23, 2024

Contact: Matthew Rowe, 410-629-6085

Berlin, MD--Assateague Island needs you!  Saturday, September 28^th is National Public Lands Day and to celebrate we are having an island cleanup. In the Maryland District, join Assateague Island National Seashore, Assateague Coastal Trust, and Assateague Island Alliance to help clean up the island. In the Virginia District, join the Assateague Island National Seashore and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge for a beach cleanup. Entrance fees are waived in the National Seashore (MD) and in the National Wildlife Refuge (VA) for the day. In the Maryland District:

• Assateague Island National Seashore – Island Cleanup is from 9:00am to 12:00pm
  • Check-in at North Ocean Beach Parking Lot at Assateague Island National Seashore.
  • 9:00am - 12:00pm, clean up around the campgrounds, trails, picnic areas, parking lots. Pets are welcome on a 6’ leash.
  • Trash bags provided. Bring work gloves, sunscreen, hat, closed-toed shoes, and water recommended.

In the Virginia District:

• Island Cleanup is from 8:00am to 12:00pm
  • Check-in at the Toms Cove Visitor Center deck located near the beach. (410-641-1441, option 2)
  • No pets allowed in the Virginia District, even in your car.
  • Trash bags provided. Bring work gloves, sunscreen, hat, closed-toed shoes, and water recommended.

All volunteers are reminded to bring work gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent and water. If you have questions or intend to bring a large group to participate in the cleanup, please contact Matthew Rowe at [e-mail] or at 410-629-6085.

About the National Park Service. More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 420+ national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.