Partnership Removes Over 18 Tons of Trash from Santa Ynez Riverbed
Heal the Ocean and Earthcomb partnered to remove 18.4 tons of trash and hazardous materials from the Santa Ynez Riverbed near Lompoc. This cleanup, completed over three weeks in October, aims to prevent debris from being carried downstream into the…
Santa Barbara Santa Maria San Luis Obispo, CA, November 3, 2026 —
A collaborative effort between environmental organizations Heal the Ocean and Earthcomb has successfully removed a significant amount of debris from the Santa Ynez Riverbed. The operation, which took place over three weeks in October, resulted in the collection of 18.4 tons of trash and hazardous materials.
The cleanup initiative focused on the Santa Ynez Riverbed near Lompoc. The primary objective of this operation was to mitigate the risk of pollution reaching the Pacific Ocean, particularly with the onset of winter storms. Debris accumulating in the riverbed can be washed downstream, contributing to marine pollution.
This recent cleanup builds upon ongoing, multi-year efforts by various groups to address environmental concerns stemming from encampments located along the riverbed. These encampments have been identified as a source of pollution that requires consistent attention and remediation to protect local waterways and the ocean ecosystem.
The partnership between Heal the Ocean and Earthcomb highlights a commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of natural resources in the region. The removal of 18.4 tons of waste signifies a substantial step in safeguarding the Santa Ynez River and its eventual path to the ocean from harmful pollutants.
Story summarized from the original created by Karina Johnston for Heal the Ocean on www.noozhawk.com, see more information here.
