Today’s post comes from ILACSD’s Marketing Intern, Brian!
Ted Godshalk isn’t just an all-star Site Captain who is devoting his time to Coastal Cleanup Day on September 15th; he’s also an all-star teacher, educating students about the importance of environmental awareness! Now in his 7th year as a CCD Site Captain, Ted’s veteran expertise is a valuable asset. National City is lucky to have such a devoted Site Captain!
Stemming from his former adult life spent as a National School District Classroom Teacher, and his current work as a part time teacher in the both the Sweetwater Union High School District and the Coronado Unified School District, Ted is no stranger to taking charge and organizing groups.
Not only an experienced educator, but also Natural Resource Management Certified, he is a great and valuable asset to his neighborhood, his site and his volunteers. Ted loves the idea that ILACSD offers the chance to rapidly improve small, formerly-neglected wetlands in the heart of a heavily urbanized area.
As an urban wetland, the Paradise Creek cleanup site offers a great perspective about the direct impact that cities have on local ecosystems. Let Ted tell you all about the importance of clean waterways and preserving wetlands as you help him on September 15th. “There is nothing better than seeing the huge amount of work that is accomplished in a single day!”
Q: What motivated you to be a Site Captain with I Love A Clean San Diego?
A: As a site captain I have always been at Paradise Creek Educational Park in National City. This site is important to me because it is in my neighborhood.
As a teacher, Paradise Creek is an excellent place to help students and community members learn about the importance of wetlands and the fragile habitat. Many children have their first exposure to environmental awareness and action through their days spent at Paradise Creek. This place is my “Everglades.”
Q: Why do you think events like Coastal Cleanup Day are important?
A: With Coastal Cleanup Days, skilled organizers utilize the power of big numbers of people at sites where the impact of their good work is like a surgical strike on the enemies: trash and other debris. The Ocean and its animals love Coastal Cleanup Day volunteers!
Q: What is the strangest piece of trash you’ve seen at Coastal Cleanup Day?
A: One year, a volunteer found a vintage football helmet. That’s not as strange as other things I’ve heard of though.
You can join Ted’s team at the National City – Paradise Creek site by clicking here and registering!
Not near National City? Go to www.cleanupday.org and find a Coastal Cleanup Site near you!
