Plan Hillsborough Joins the 5th Annual Great Port Cleanup 

On April 11, volunteers from Plan Hillsborough teamed up with the Environmental Protection Commission of Hillsborough County and Port Tampa Bay for the 5th annual Great Port Cleanup. 

The event brought together volunteers from across the community to help remove litter and debris from multiple cleanup sites around the port. Our team focused on McKay Bay Nature Park, a green corridor known for its mangroves, scenic views, and wildlife. The trail and surrounding area, which runs alongside the Selmon Expressway, offer a peaceful natural space right in the heart of Tampa. But like many urban parks, it’s often burdened by a surprising amount of trash. 

Plan Hillsborough volunteers spent the morning clearing debris along the multi-use trail and nearby areas. While we’re still waiting for the final cleanup totals from this year, the impact of these efforts is always clear. Just last year, volunteers helped remove more than 100,000 pounds of trash from Tampa’s waterfront areas. Every piece picked up contributes to better water quality and a safer environment for the animals and people who enjoy these spaces. 

Events like the Great Port Cleanup are great opportunities for anyone in the community to get involved. If you’re interested in future cleanup efforts or even organizing one in your neighborhood, check out Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful for resources and upcoming events. 

Thanks to everyone who came out to help; it all adds up to make a big difference.