It's true. Almost. It doesn't really rain from almost the end of April until sometime in mid-October. That's one thing that makes California a fabulous place to live, to grow crops(almonds, grapes, oranges, etc.) and to sail! One unfortunate side effect is the pile up of trash and toxins that occurs during this long, dry season that will eventually, during the return of the fall rains, all get washed in to the estuaries, bays and oceans. Often, a lot of that mess will be mistakenly attributed to sailors.
Trash accumulates on the roadsides, along the gutters and in streambeds like the one pictured here. The pavement across the state collects all the toxins given off by driving from brake linings, to tire wear, to oil and gas drippings all of which will get washed out to sea in the rainy season. Swimming is not recommended right after the first rains fall! Unfortunately that’s not an option if you’re a fish.
Regardless of the source of the trash it’s often the sailor/boater who gets blamed for coastal litter. Many years ago that was probably true. As a kid (in the 60’s) I remember we often disposed of things overboard but it’s been years since I can remember anyone I’ve sailed with purposely toss any trash overboard.
Either way our responsibility as sailors – and humans, is to make sure the earth and seas remain clean and sustainable. We should do what we can to prevent trash from boats, cars or any other source getting released into the environment. On the other hand, we should take whatever opportunities there are to make clear to folks on land that the source of all trash along the shorelines isn’t boats. Maybe a small percentage but the most trash in the oceans comes from the land and boaters shouldn’t be singled out for excessive scrutiny or regulation. Ocean pollution should be reduced regardless of source, autos, agricultural runoff and boats. But we know, in the end, sailor's contribution is likely minute in relation to almost all other sources. No reason not to do whatever we can to improve but also sailing should be recognized as the largely green, sustainable and enjoyable activity that it is. Use green cleaners, sail more, motor less. Sail on.
The trash collects all summer long - then washes out to the Bay.