After storms, trash washes ashore in Delaware
10:50 AM, Sep. 21, 2011
Several of Delaware’s coastal communities have reported debris washing ashore in large amounts.
The trash – mostly plastic, but also including syringes and medications – was reported at Slaughter and Broadkill beaches, among other sites.
The trash is believed to be following a southerly flow pattern that began Sunday and is attributable to recent heavy rainfall that led to flooding, as well as the aftermath of Hurricane Irene, according to the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.
DNREC and volunteers have cleaned up large portions of the shore line this week.
The agency urges anyone who picks up trash to wear gloves and be alert for medical waste or other potentially hazardous materials which should not be handled. Any discovery of these items should be reported to DNREC’s environmental protection officers through the 24-hour toll-free emergency response line: 1-800-662-8802.