Volunteers sought for Coast Watch Published June 17, 2010 81st Force Support Squadron and Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Keesler families can work together to make an impact on Mississippi's shoreline through a volunteer initiative recently launched by the Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service. Coast Watch focuses on surveying beaches and coastal habitats that may be affected by the BP oil spill. Volunteers survey, record and report shoreline observations along about 46 miles of beach in Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties. "This effort can be a great family activity and a wonderful opportunity for Keesler volunteers to get involved," said Cherrie Tiggeman, 81st Force Support Squadron airman and family services flight chief. "Especially during the Year of the Air Force Family, we can share this effort with our children and gain a greater appreciation of our coastal resources." "Coast Watch is the first line of defense for coastal communities facing possible oil impact," said Brandi McNeil, MCVS deputy director. "Volunteers in the Coast Watch program play an extremely important role in the oil spill response because they are the most familiar with the beaches and wildlife in their community." Individuals who live along coastal communities can watch for oiled wildlife, vegetation and beaches by becoming Coast Watch volunteers. Coast Watch volunteers are community members who know the daily wildlife and plants that exist on their local beach. "Coast Watchers" will assist state agencies, BP and their partnering organizations in identifying beaches that need attention. Coast Watchers working and living in Mississippi's coastal communities commit to report injured or oiled animals, oiled shoreline or changes in air quality. Coast Watchers aren't permitted to enter off-limit areas to obtain observations and must not make contact with oiled wildlife, vegetation and beaches due to the associated health concerns. To become a Coast Watcher, register online at www.volunteermississippi.org. Training will be offered on an ongoing basis and be provided to all individuals participating in volunteer activities. "MCVS is offering a valuable service to the coastal communities and an avenue for the many volunteers who want to participate in response efforts," said BP spokesperson Marti Powers, BP spokesperson. "We appreciate the opportunity to partner with MCVS to provide this assistance to Mississippi." To date, more than 4,000 volunteers from 46 states, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Canada, and Australia have registered to help in response to the BP oil spill. Hundreds of volunteers from Mississippi's lower three counties have given almost 1,000 hours of service, and cleaned and surveyed over 37 miles of beach and coastal habitats. For more information, call 1-888-353-1793 or log on to www.mcvs.org