Beach cleanups aren’t just a matter of aesthetics – it could be a matter of life and death for wildlife. That’s why the Alki Community Council and Seal Sitters have a series of volunteer cleanups under way, and David Hutchinson shares photos as well as a report on the latest one, just hours ago:

The second beach clean-up of the season, sponsored by the Alki Community Council and Seal Sitters, took place this morning. Twenty-one volunteers from the Renton High School Choir, led by choir director Lizabeth Diaz, removed litter from the area around the picnic tables in Alki Park, along the beach, and by the fire rings.

These events also provide an educational opportunity for the volunteers. Robin Lindsey, one of the founders of Seal Sitters, briefed the students on local marine mammals and the negative impact of litter and pollutants when they get into the marine environment.

These activities are coordinated through Colleen Hackett of Seattle Parks & Recreation. If you want additional information on how you can become involved, contact Larry Carpenter, of the Alki Community Council, at 206-938-0887.

And of course, it should go without saying .. don’t leave beach trash behind in the first place. Just in case the cans fill up on a long weekend like this, if you’re going to the beach, bring a bag so you can “pack (trash) out” if you need to.