Respecting Our Island – Carry In, Carry Out 2026

by Jane Ahrens

It seems every summer the Island community sadly experiences the leftovers of thoughtless people who feel it is OK to leave their trash for others to pick up.

Time and time again, on beaches, at parking lots, public open spaces, road sides, and recently the ballfield, we encounter debris, cans, plastic, and more, left behind because individuals are lazy and inconsiderate.

Island entities take incredible care of the properties they manage, adding to the beauty and enjoyment of the whole island. The Ferry District manages the airport property, including The Race, Bud’s Hole, and South Beach for the Town. IPP manages Dock Beach and the Ballfield, and Southold DOT manages the roadways. The Conservancy takes care of properties including the Parade Grounds, and the Museum has its land trust and trails.

Take every opportunity to say thank you
for the care they take of our seven miles!

Don’t make more work! Pick up your trash and garbage, don’t leave it for someone else.

Let’s change that! Don’t be ‘that’ person. Have your parties, celebrations and fun, but…

LEAVE ONLY YOUR FOOT PRINTS

This 2020 ICB article continues to apply today.

2026 Debris examples

Click any image to see a large version or scroll through the gallery.

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