Some areas of Cumberland County Route 553 need a huge vacuum cleaner.
By Lisa Morse Morrison
It's not my intention to single out, blame or offend anyone in particular. Recently, I've started wondering if I'm the only person who notices a serious litter problem in Cumberland County.
Other counties in New Jersey may be as bad, or worse. However, this is where I live, and this is the area I care about.
The trash issue is complex, and has many implications. Studies reveal that 90 percent of sea birds have plastic in their system, links between trash accumulation and higher crime rates, and that litter can be a deciding factor for businesses and homebuyers on whether to pick certain locations. These three findings alone should give everyone the incentive to clean up. Taxpayers are picking up the tab for empty and abandoned homes.
My weekly routine provides an opportunity to travel much of Cumberland County. The trash is everywhere. During my daily drive on County Route 553, I wish I could just cover my eyes. Some areas of that road need a huge vacuum cleaner. Stretches of this road are so full of trash, I wonder how surrounding homeowners can stand to look at them.
Apparently, this doesn't bother anyone, because the trash sits there, untouched. Townships advertising themselves as "a clean community" should have to earn that title. It grieves me.
There was a time when incarcerated individuals had trash pickup assignments. I don't know all the facts regarding prison labor, but perhaps policies have changed. I see supervised men from time to time, but not like I used to.
Cumberland County is home to several correctional facilities. Are we getting all we can out of this valuable resource? This area needs the prisoners' help, and it could make a big difference.
Volunteer groups who get organized and do cleanups deserve a lot of credit. Where I live, local historical society members do this a couple of times a year. The Cumberland County Improvement Authority and student groups also organize cleanups. However, given the magnitude of the situation, it's just not enough.
People must realize that they don't have to wait to be organized. They can make a difference on their own. It's as simple as picking a troubled area and making the commitment to keep it clean. Road adoption signs are nice, but not necessary.
No one can tackle the entire county, but most people can handle a small area. This includes homeowners being responsible for their own properties. Trashed yards reduce everyone's property values.
Picking up litter is not a demeaning task, and no one should ever feel it's beneath them. On the contrary, it should be beneath everyone to leave litter lying on the ground. Litter removal is a mission with purpose, and a sure way to leave a good footprint on this earth. Good stewardship never goes out of style. Don't worry about what others think, just do it!
Our Bayshore Region is unquestionably a breathtaking, and environmentally sensitive area. It's upsetting to see how people are willing to treat it.
It's time for everyone to recognize just how bad the trash problem is. I challenge any of our elected officials to take a ride anywhere, and really look. May they also take note of the storm and water drains clogged by circulars and litter.
I wonder what it could mean for Cumberland County if it became the cleanest county in the state after being at the bottom of so many lists. It would be a title worth boasting about.
Multi-million dollar projects are diminished if people are driving through trash to reach them. This is our home. I'd like to see as much time and energy invested in cleaning up. Determination and commitment are priceless.
Lisa Morse Morrison writes from Port Norris.