TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa is marking the second anniversary of its Litter Skimmer, a specialized boat that has significantly contributed to keeping the city’s waterways clean. Since its launch, the Litter Skimmer has removed a remarkable 72,500 pounds of trash, surpassing the weight of a fully loaded shipping container.
Operating ten hours a day, four days a week, the Litter Skimmer patrols the Hillsborough River, Davis Islands, and the Bay, collecting floating debris that could harm the environment and marine life.
Read: Tampa Police Investigate Vehicle-Bicycle Crash On Eastbound Hillsborough Ave
The Litter Skimmer’s impressive capabilities include two operator booths, adjustable collection flares, and a storage conveyor for efficient trash removal. It has recovered a wide array of items, from common litter to surprising finds like a large ship buoy bumper and even indoor furniture. All collected trash is converted into electricity at the City of Tampa’s Waste to Energy Facility.
The city also launched the “Keep It Clean Tampa” campaign in 2022, focusing on educating residents and preventing litter from reaching waterways. This campaign, combined with the Litter Skimmer’s efforts and other initiatives like baffle boxes and street sweeping, demonstrates Tampa’s commitment to environmental preservation.
Read :Rock Riley: Bruce Arians Sports Club Of Tampa Bay HOF Inductee & Rock’s Stories
Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “Tampa’s waterways are an invaluable resource, and we are committed to protecting them. The Litter Skimmer has made a significant impact, but keeping our city clean is a team effort. I encourage all residents to do their part by properly disposing of their trash and participating in our cleanup efforts.”
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.