‘It was clean’: Noticeable difference on Miami’s spoil islands following holiday weekend closure

MIAMI – The pollution problem on Miami’s spoil islands became such a big issue for the city that officials decided to close all four to the public just before the busy Memorial Day weekend.

The mandate started Friday, with no one allowed on Osprey Island, Willis Island, Pace Picnic Island or Morningside Island.

The Miami Police Department’s marine patrol unit made sure people remained off the islands.

The department said they haven’t had any issues with trespassers thanks to the city employees who have kept guard on the islands from sunrise to sunset each day.

“They became our eyes and ears,” said MPD Marine Patrol Lt. Oriel Tameron.

Since the closures on Friday, conditions on the island have been noticeably different.

“It was clean,” said Tameron. “I saw marine life.”

Those who do trespass could be arrested.

The city has not said when they will reopen the islands.