Debris Cleanups With Guided Jones Lagoon Paddle

Immerse yourself in a beautiful day of paddling in Biscayne National Park while making a meaningful contribution to the conservation of sensitive coastal habitats!

Experience a guided paddle tour of Jones Lagoon after picking up debris on a stand up paddleboard.

Departing from the Dante Fascell Visitor Center.

Engage in the dual delight of exploring the beauty of Biscayne National Park while playing an active role in safeguarding its sensitive coastal habitats. We will be removing debris from the mangrove coastlines or wherever debris removal is needed. This will include paddling on stand up paddleboards and possibly wading in the water. After an hour to an hour and a half of debris cleanup, you will have lunch and then enjoy a relaxing guided paddle through the clear waters of Jones Lagoon. Upon returning to the Dante Fascell Visitor Center, you will unload the collected debris from the boat and complete your day of service.

This activity is open to participants ages 12 and older. Participants between the ages of 12-17 must have their parent or legal guardian present and actively participating alongside them. This activity is considered strenuous and participants should be physically fit enough to wade through up to waist-deep waters, walk on rocky coastlines, and lift debris for at least an hour.

Please come prepared! Closed-toed shoes such as dive booties are required. Wear appropriate apparel, lightweight long sleeves, and long pants are recommended. Be prepared for the possibility of getting wet. Please bring your own work gloves. Don’t forget to bring a water bottle, lunch, sunscreen, towel, insect repellent, and snacks.

When you participate in this trip, you are agreeing to sign up as a volunteer at Biscayne National Park. Below is the job description for this volunteer position. Please read prior to booking so you know what to expect and what will be expected of you. Thank you!

BNPI Marine Debris Cleanup Volunteer in Park Position Description:

How many people required:  Flexible

Goals of this position: Remove marine debris from sensitive coastal habitats including, but not limited to, sea turtle nesting beaches, mangrove shorelines, and popular visitor access areas

How many days per month:  Varied

Duration of position: Year-round

Location of Volunteer Position: Dante Fascell Visitor Center, Biscayne National Park, 9700 SW 328th Street, Homestead, FL 33033.  Volunteers will be transported via government/institute boat to specific work sites.  

Tasks required:

• Collect and bag assorted marine debris from the assigned work area
• Dispose of garbage in the dumpster
• Report suspicious debris items to the supervisor

Characteristics of Volunteer Position

• Responsible and professional
• Self-starter and quick to learn
• Follows directions, but can independently perform tasks once oriented
• Punctual and dependable
• Must be able to wade in waist-deep water, walk on rocky shorelines and beaches while bending over to pick up marine debris for several hours a day

Paperwork Needed:

• Agreement, with parental approval, if under 18yrs (OF301a or OF301b)
• Job description (this page will suffice for PD)
• JHA (safety document)

Required Training: A 15 minute orientation on the day of your assignment

Suggested Training: n/a

Uniform/Dress Code: This is a non-uniformed position.  Sun protective clothing that can get wet/dirty is recommended (long sleeves/pants).  Swimsuit as base layer recommended. Footwear should be closed-toed shoes (dive booties, Keene sandals, etc.).  

Age Restrictions: Ages 12+, (ages 12-17 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian)

Other Items to Note: No reimbursements available, work level: strenuous