To the editor:

Thank you for your recent editorial entitled "That's one fine mess we made"  (April 21 edition). I was encouraged to see your support, as well as many other organizations, backing the need to clean up our communities of self-made litter.

I am the manager and operator of Westport Camping Grounds located close to the Westport middle and elementary schools. I recently took over operations from my Dad, George Costa, who ran a successful business for 40 years! Now, as a new generation takes over, it is my intention to give back to the Westport community we all love.

As many campers from around the world have visited us, they remark how much they love Westport; its rural setting of farms and fishing; the friendly people, and unique and varied businesses from wonderful restaurants to farm stands; antique shops and specialty stores. My camping tourists love a visit to Horseneck Beach, walking the newly developed trails, or riding their bikes through our lovely countryside.

 For this reason, and many others, I have always hated to see trash and litter strewn along the sides of our streets. With so much natural beauty around, who wants to be distracted by discarded coffee cups and plastic bags. It is my intention, as a business owner and life-long Westport resident, to do my part in keeping Westport clean.

I approached Selectman Steve Ouellette to suggest an idea much like the national "Adopt-A-Highway" campaign. If several businesses in town sponsored a section of streets near their businesses, perhaps we could Clean Our Westport.

Steve made another suggestion; organize a cleanup crew and use the the acronym "C.O.W" (Clean Our Westport). He and others came up with a great cow inspired logo and neon yellow T-shirts have been made for volunteers to wear when they help Clean Our Westport. Westport Camping Grounds is proud to supply the financial assistance while Selectman Ouellette is gathering volunteers to begin cleaning the messiest streets. The first phase of cleanup is slated for Earth Day, Saturday April 23. We plan on many more cleanup days until all littered town roads are cleaned. Anyone interested in helping should contact me at the Campgrounds or Selectman Ouellette.

This is a wonderful collaboration of local business and government working together. We must all do our part to give back for the many years of pleasure that Westport has given all of us.

Martin Costa

Manager, Westport Camping Grounds