Masonboro.org changes plans for July 4th cleanup due to COVID-19

MASONBORO ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — Local non-profit organization Masonboro.org needs your help next month.

Masonboro Island is typical a hot spot in the Cape Fear for those celebrating Independence Day.

Since 2009, hundreds of “red shirt” volunteers have removed and recycled tons of trash off of Masonboro Island during the annual 4th of July celebration.

This is one of the many efforts by the group to preserve the barrier island.

Due to COVID-19, the group will conduct their annual cleanup on the morning of Sunday, July 5.

Masonboro.org President Tom Hackler spoke to WWAY on Good Morning Carolina about the changes. He said most of the volunteers are older and more vulnerable. That is why they will not be there on July 4.

Hackler said Masonboro Island on the 4th of July could be a spreading event for COVID-19.

Hackler said they still need some more boat captains to help them get the volunteers to the island for social distancing purposes.

If you would like to volunteer, visit here.