2007 summer harbor cleanup launched

Several Boston and Massachusetts organizations joined forces again to launch the Summer 2007 Boston Harbor Marine Debris Cleanup Program.

The program removes potentially harmful material from Boston Harbor and its tributaries to make the waters safer for swimmers and boaters.

A boat operated by Boston Line & Service Co., contracted by The Boston Harbor Association, will pick up debris from the inner harbor, Fort Point Channel, Charles River, Chealsea Creek, and the Mystic River for eight hours a day, four days per week until mid-September.

The Massachusetts Water Resource Authority, Massachusetts Port Authority, City of Boston, and Eastern Salt Co. of Chealsea will combine to raise about $35,000 to pay for the cleaning.

According to a press release, more than 200 tons of debris have been removed in the past seven summers. The most common refuse include plastic cups, bottles, wrappers, and cigarette butts.
(By Se Young Lee, Globe staff)