Conch Republic Marine Army Mangrove & Ocean Cleanups

Make a hands-on difference for the Florida Keys by joining the Conch Republic Marine Army (CRMA) for one of its free weekly mangrove and ocean cleanups.

Founded in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, this grassroots nonprofit has grown into a major community conservation effort, with more than 5,500 volunteers removing over half a million pounds of marine debris from Florida Keys mangroves, shorelines, and waterways.

Volunteers board a CRMA cleanup vessel and head into the shallow backcountry to remove plastics, rope, trap lines, tires, and other debris that can threaten marine life and damage sensitive habitats. It can be wet and messy work, but the results are immediate and rewarding. Each outing lasts a few hours and concludes with a weigh-in of the day’s haul, giving volunteers a chance to see just how much they accomplished.

Cleanups are offered from two locations. The Marathon boat departs from Isla Bella Beach Resort, 1 Knights Key Blvd., on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while another boat departs from The Perry Hotel Marina, 7001 Shrimp Road on Stock Island, on Saturdays.

Everything needed for the cleanup is provided. Volunteers should bring clothing that can get wet and dirty, a reusable water bottle, and reef-safe sunscreen. Trips are open to participants ages 6 and older, with children accompanied by an adult.

Best of all, participation is free, although boat space is limited and advance registration is required.

Whether you’re a Keys local or a visitor looking for a meaningful way to give back, a cleanup with CRMA offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the backcountry while helping protect the waters, mangroves, and marine habitats that make the Florida Keys so special.

Roll up your sleeves, climb aboard, and help keep the Florida Keys clean one boatload at a time!