The Town of Manteo held a litter pick up day named after Rodney “Crow” Murray. Hundreds of people showed up to enjoy coffee and doughnuts before setting out in the crisp fall weather. People were divided into groups to cover different areas of the town.
Our group led by Jaye Massecar (Friends of Elizabeth II Operations Director) picked up along back roads, the cemetery, the highway, and in front of the elementary school. We found a lot of cigarette butts, candy wrappers, and beer cans. It was interesting to see the different kinds of trash and where it was mainly located which was along the highway. Jaye told us that a lot of people tend to throw trash out their car windows. It is important to do litter pickups especially in a town like this where sewer ditches need to be cleared when heavy rains come to prevent excessive flooding.
We were able to fill five trash bags by the end of the day. However, as a whole, the town manage to collect a truck full of garbage!
A lot of people found really interesting items in the ditches: birdhouse, a duck decoy, and children toys. I found what appears to be a jewel placed on a pet collar.
The morning ended with pizza provided by the town to thank those that all showed up. It’s always a good day to help the community look clean and beautiful!