Taking a stand against litter

Students in the surf and environmental class at Newport Harbor High School will try to persuade the city of Newport Beach to crack down on littering and smoking on beaches.

In collaboration with the Earth Resource Foundation, the students are seeking signatures for a petition asking the city to step up enforcement.

They hope revenue from citations will help pay for beach cleanups and more educational efforts.

The group will gather at 10 a.m. today at the Newport Beach Pier, at Balboa Boulevard and 21st Street.

Speakers will include Stephanie Barger, executive director of the Earth Resource Foundation.