367 Pounds Removed at East Matunuck State Beach Cleanup in Rhode Island

On April 18th, the Ocean Recovery Community Alliance (ORCA) hosted a beach cleanup at East Matunuck State Beach in Rhode Island, where 75 volunteers removed 367 pounds of debris from the shoreline. The group covered a wide stretch of beach, collecting a mix of everyday litter and larger, unexpected items.

Event Details

Conditions at East Matunuck were typical for early spring, windy with a mix of sand and scattered debris along the high tide line. Volunteers spread out across the beach, working through both visible trash and partially buried items.

Among the findings were plastic fragments, fishing line, lobster pots, and even a 6-CD changer. The range of debris showed how different types of waste accumulate on the shoreline over time.

Partner Recognition

This cleanup was supported by Matunuck Oyster Bar and Sunbent Co, who partnered with ORCA for the event. Narragansett Rubbish Removal provided the dumpster, enabling the collection of the volume of debris.

In Memory

This cleanup was dedicated to the memory of Brody Colon, who loved the ocean and spending time at East Matunuck Beach. April 18th would have been his 12th birthday.

In his honor, the Charlton Middle School community raised $1,600 to support ORCA’s work. We’re grateful to his family and community for choosing to support this effort and recognize his connection to this beach.

What Was Found

Volunteers pulled a mix of small and bulky items from the beach. Fishing line and plastic fragments were common throughout the area. Larger debris, like lobster pots and the CD changer, stood out and required extra effort to remove.

Why It Matters

Fishing gear, such as lines and traps, can entangle wildlife and remain in the environment for years. Smaller plastics continue to break down into microplastics, which are harder to remove and more easily ingested by marine life.

Get Involved

ORCA hosts volunteer beach cleanups across Rhode Island and Connecticut throughout the year. Visit our events page to sign up for an upcoming cleanup. Support future cleanups through a donation.

Ocean Recovery Community Alliance (ORCA) is a nonprofit organization focused on beach cleanups and ocean conservation across Rhode Island and Connecticut.