I have only fished the canal once. But I am in, I volunteer for clean-up efforts whenever I see them.
It is absolutely horrible to see the sh-ite that is strewn across beaches from the north-shore to the cape.
First of all how much stuff do you need to bring with you. For the most part the only trash I have is clipped line which goes in my pocket. But even if you walk out with a coffee or a package of bait, for natures sake, carry it back to your car or trash-can.
I hate picking up other peoples stuff, but I hate seeing it left there more.
-IWK