This week, Surfrider Santa Cruz was contacted by one of our dedicated volunteers, Nick Sola, who noticed a heartbreaking sight near Highway 880 in San José—piles of plastic water bottles and trash scattered along the road, crushed and spreading further with every passing car. Rather than shrug it off, Nick took action.
He reached out to our team to ask what could be done. We provided him with the City of San José’s 311 hotline and other helpful contacts for reporting illegal dumping and litter. Within hours, Nick made the call—and the response was swift. The city confirmed that they would dispatch a crew to clean it up.
A few hours later, the trash was gone.
This is a powerful example of how grassroots action leads to real, tangible results. Thanks to Nick's initiative, that stretch of 880 is cleaner and safer for both people and the environment. It also serves as a reminder that we all have the power to advocate for our communities and protect the places we love.
Want to make a difference like Nick?
Keep your eyes open. Report what you see. And reach out—we’re here to help connect you with the right tools and resources.
Together, we can keep our coasts—and our communities—clean.
Surfrider Foundation Santa Cruz Chapter