Saint Clair Shores schedules 30th Nautical Coast cleanup for May 18; I‑94 cleanup marks 20 years

Organizers of the Nautical Coast cleanup told the Saint Clair Shores Waterfront Environmental Committee the 30th annual event will be held on May 18 and asked volunteers to register in advance via Eventbrite or the committee’s social channels.

Event director Michael Troopo, who said this is his sixth year directing the event, described public-area cleanup locations — Veterans Park, Chapitaine, Blossom Heath and the pier — and asked for volunteers to help remove trash from rocks and shorelines. Troopo noted that volunteer turnout dipped during pandemic years and encouraged renewed high-school and homeowner-association participation.

Erin Liberty, committee treasurer, reviewed finances and cleanup statistics. She said the committee typically takes in about $10,000 each year and that in 2024 volunteers collected 86 bags of trash with 83 volunteers participating. Liberty also highlighted a 20th-year recognition and thanked sponsors including the St. Clair Shores Lions and Kiwanis clubs and individual donors.

The committee reported the I‑94 cleanup has evolved over two decades: orange safety vests became yellow, volunteer numbers have included contributions from the Michigan National Guard and community groups, and the program will run monthly second-Saturday cleanups from June through September. Troopo asked for sponsors to help fund food and supplies for volunteer mornings.

Organizers asked residents on private shorelines and canals to contact the committee for pickup support and said the committee can provide resources for canal cleanups.