Question 1

Who runs SPLASh?

Accepted Answer

SPLASh was launched in 2020 through a partnership between the American Bird Conservancy, the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory, and Black Cat GIS.

Question 2

Where does SPLASh operate?

Accepted Answer

SPLASh primarily works throughout the greater Houston-Galveston region and the upper Texas coast. Want to see our most visited sites? Click here to visit our Story Map page where you can find our most frequently cleaned sites. SPLASh does not conduct cleanups on private or residential property. Our efforts focus primarily on public lands, beaches, shorelines, and other areas identified as important habitat for wildlife and birds.

Question 3

How can I join a cleanup?

Accepted Answer

Visit our Calendar page to find upcoming cleanups and registration information.

Question 4

Do I need experience to participate?

Accepted Answer

No experience is required! We provide instructions, safety guidance, and the supplies needed for the cleanup.

Question 5

What should I bring to a cleanup?

Accepted Answer

Close toed shoes are required. Crocs and shoes with back straps are not recommended.We recommend bringing water, snacks, sun protection, bug spray, and wearing appropriate clothes for the weather. Gloves, trash bags, sanitizer, and cleanup supplies are provided. Limited sunscreen and bug spray will also be available.

Question 6

Can children participate?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Our events are family-friendly. Participants under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete the Parental Consent Form. Children attending under 18 years old must have a parent/guardian present for the duration of the cleanup.

Question 7

Does SPLASh offer programs for schools?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We provide educational activities, classroom lessons, presentations, and field experiences that connect students to local wildlife and environmental stewardship.Email splashtx@abcbirds.org if interested!

Question 8

Can I earn volunteer hours through SPLASh?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students and community members may receive documentation of volunteer service hours upon request.

Question 9

Why do you collect trash data?

Accepted Answer

Trash data helps identify litter hotspots, track trends over time, and inform solutions that reduce pollution. SPLASh contributes data to the Texas Litter Database. Marine debris and pollution are major threats to birds everywhere, but especially on the Gulf Coast. Entanglement and ingestion of plastics and microplastics are major causes of injury and mortality for many bird species. Discarded fishing line, plastic bags, and other debris can trap birds or be mistaken for food, leading to starvation, internal injuries, and reduced survival. By removing trash from beaches and coastal habitats, we can help protect birds and other wildlife while creating cleaner, healthier ecosystems for both people and nature.

Question 10

What age groups do your programs serve?

Accepted Answer

Our programs can be adapted for a variety of ages, from elementary students through adults. Cleanup events are family-friendly while educational programming is most appropriate for 4th grade and up. Reach out if you have special requests that may not align with these limitations.

Question 11

How can I support SPLASh if I can't attend a cleanup?

Accepted Answer

You can donate, share our educational resources, participate in outreach campaigns, reduce single-use plastics, and help spread awareness about coastal conservation.

Question 12

Can businesses sponsor SPLASh programs and events?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We welcome sponsorships and partnerships that support our conservation, education, and outreach efforts. Reach out to splashtx@abcbirds.org for inquiries.

NEWSLETTER