What is a Beach?
A beach is made of very small loose rock (sand) that gathers at the shore of a body of water. Beaches are created by waves or currents. The sand comes from erosion of rocks both far away from and near the water. Coral reefs are a major source of sand.
Crabs, insects, and birds feed on material left by the waves. Some small animals dig into the sand to get their food. Birds use beaches to nest, and sea turtles lay their eggs on ocean beaches. Sea grasses and other beach plants grow on areas of the beach and dunes where there is not much activity.
How to Protect Your Beach
Things you can do to help protect your beach:
* Dispose of trash properly - use trash cans at the beach or take your trash home with you
* Reduce, reuse and recycle as many as possible of the things you use -- anywhere, anytime
* Cut the rings off plastic six-pack holders so that animals (like fish, turtles or seals) can't get tangled in them — leave no solid plastic loops
* Join local beach, river or stream clean-ups
* Teach others how to practice good beach safety
