Sunday 23 March 2014

Mangrove cleanup at Sungei Api-Api (Pasir Ris Park), 19th April Saturday


Sungei Api-api and its river bank is home to many native and migratory birds, otters and other animals important to the eco-system.  With waste thrown into the sea and increasing development around the area, the mangroves are getting more polluted than it is naturally created to handle, threatening the homes of these animals and the ecosystem that thrives.

Mangroves protect shorelines from damaging storm and soil erosion.  Mangroves also help prevent erosion by stabilizing sediments with their tangled root systems.  They maintain water quality and clarity, filtering pollutants and trapping sediments originating from land.  They also serve as valuable nursery areas for shrimp, crustaceans, mollusks, and fishes.

In celebration of Earth Day (on 22nd April), we are organising a mangrove clean-up. Do come along with your family and friends and do your part for the environment, to understand the importance of protecting our fragile eco-system and lastly, to have fun!


The tide on 19th April (Saturday) morning is 0.3 meters and is a good opportunity to get our hands-on cleaning the trash in the mangrove.  Be prepared to get your feet muddy and hands wet while in the mangrove habitat.  We will prefer children age 12 and above and adults as we try to minimise the human impact to prevent stepping onto the mangrove saplings and creatures.

This event is organised by The Green Volunteers & Sea Shepherd.  


If you would like to make a difference for the mangrove at Sungei Api-Api, email Grace with your full name, mobile number and (name of other friends/family members participating).

Meeting point:
Pasir Ris CARPARK C; Wash up/Toilet area (where the Gallop Stables are)


By train: Alight at Pasir Ris MRT station and turn right to exit B. Walk straight the sheltered walkway and turn right and walk on the pavement (where you will see a soccer field on your right) till the end and cross the traffic light to the park and continue walking till you see the car park.
 
Things to bring:
- Drinking water
- Gloves
- Wellies (or well-covered shoes, NO slippers/sandals!)
- Tongs
- Insect repellent
- Cap/hat
- Poncho/Raincoat
- Smiles, enthusiasm and friends! 


The mangrove cleanup session should end by 11.30 am. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE
There will be NO lockers at the park hence please avoid bringing any valuable and bulky items to the mangrove.  Bring a spare set of clothing in case you get really muddy!

(We will be providing trash bags. Some gloves and tools too but it will not be enough to go around, so please do bring your own gloves if possible, thank you!)