PENINSULA – Operation Shore Patrol, scheduled for the Peninsula the third full weekend in September, is a coordinated effort of several groups and agencies to remove litter and debris from Washington’s ocean beaches and dune areas. The goal is also to focus public attention on litter and its environmental impact.

The Pacific Northwest 4-Wheel Drive Association started Operation Shore Patrol in 1971 and has maintained a leadership role in the cleanup effort. The Association also promotes community cooperation and support.

Many of the supporters of Operation Shore Patrol include schools, scouting groups, service clubs, chambers, merchant’s associations, Washington Department of Ecology, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission, and interested citizens.

State Parks waives standard campsite fees for cleanup participants on the third Friday and Saturday of September (hook-ups not included), including Fort Canby. Reservations must be made by calling the Pacific Northwest 4-Wheel Drive Association Region Coordinator after 6 p.m. weekdays or on weekends between Aug. 1 and Sept. 9, (360) 636-1675. Hook-ups reservations can be made at (888) 226-7688.