Karla Reinhardt partnered with Orange County’s Adopt A Channel program in January 2018, enabling the Ocean Defenders Alliance (ODA) to help improve water quality flowing to the ocean. Even though Fullerton is about 20 miles inland, trash from local channels like Brea Creek can easily reach coastal waters.

“We go out every 2-3 months, or when needed. It’s not a regular set date due to my schedule. The goal is to keep it clean before the rainy season starts,” said Reinhardt.
“We also do a cleanup during Earth Month in April and Coastal Cleanup Month in September.”

At a recent cleanup, volunteers collected 350 pounds of trash in just one hour. They sorted items to gather crucial data, with statistics revealing 442 food wrappers, 102 beverage containers, and numerous other litter items, including plastic bags and face masks.

This flood control channel directs stormwater to Coyote Creek, which flows into the San Gabriel River and Alamitos Bay, often carrying debris along the way.

To join ODA in its mission for cleaner waterways, email
volunteer@oceandefenders.org or krreinhardt@gmail.com.

Every effort counts in protecting our environment!