If you’re practicing green boating when you’re in the water, it makes sense to choose a green marina for docking and refueling. Green or clean marinas can be found in most states and should share your commitment to protecting the environment while we enjoy it.
How can you tell if your marina is green?
3 Signs Of A Green Marina
1. Certified Clean Marina
The easiest way to know if your marina encourages green boating is to ask if they are a certified as a Clean Marina by the Clean Marina Initiative, which is promoted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. Individual states also have green marina initiatives that may certify local marinas who practice sustainability and environmental safety.
2. Clean Docks
A green marina often has policies against using toxic chemicals on the docks, including paints and cleaning products. These policies may or may not be posted on their website, but a walk around the docks can usually let you know if green boat maintenance is encouraged at a marina.
3. Clean Water
It sounds simple, but the water around a clean marina should be – well – clean. A green marina will have guidelines for preventing and handling spills, including the use of spill pads. Check the docks for spill pads, pillows, socks or other absorbent materials that are readily available for spills that may occur.
The right clean marina not only shares your concerns about protecting our waterways and shores, but can help make green boating easier for you.
