Environmental advocates join 'Hands Across the Sand' at Pensacola Beach

PENSACOLA BEACH, Fla. (WEAR) — Two organizations hosted Hands Across the Sand on Casino Beach Saturday morning. Oceana and 350 Pensacola say they are sending a message to President Trump: protect our coast from dirty and dangerous offshore drilling and seismic airgun blasting.

“Coastal communities are more motivated than ever before to protect our coast from the threats of offshore drilling,” said Erin Handy, campaign organizer at Oceana. “Today’s events draw a clear line in the sand against offshore drilling and exploration

The event was one of 27 in Florida and included presentations from Escambia County Commissioner Grover Robinson, 350 Pensacola Director Christian Wagley and Oceana Campaign Organizer for Florida Erin Handy.

Those participating joined hands and stayed silent for 15 minutes to show their silent solidarity to say no to fuels.

“Offshore drilling and seismic airgun blasting off the coast of Florida poses major risks to our livelihoods and our very way of life,” said Handy. “Do not be mistaken, this proposal puts all of the risk on coastal communities while only promising benefits to the oil and gas industry. We must stop the expansion of offshore drilling before it’s too late: we’ve said no before, and we’re saying no again.”