Canal cleanup initiative protects Gulf of Mexico waters

Garbage in the Gulf of Mexico often comes from upstream. But thanks to a recent project, nearly 32 pounds of trash headed for the Gulf was collected from a Metairie canal.

Part of a project funded by the Gulf of Mexico Alliance and Gulf Star member Hess, the Pontchartrain Conservancy partnered with Osprey Initiative to install a “Litter Gitter” device that intercepts floating litter from stormwater runoff.

The trash collected was more than half plastic and a quarter Styrofoam. Water bottles made up a large part of what was collected, emphasizing our need to use refillable bottles and reduce waste.

– Amanda Nally, Gulf of Mexico Alliance, The New Orleans 100