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Clean Boating Partnership: |
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With the second largest coastline in America (after Alaska), Florida has more registered boaters and marine facilities than any other state. Over 800,000 boats are registered in Florida, with an additional 400,000 boats estimated to visit the state annually. Nearly 2000 marinas and boatyards service these boaters. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Florida Sea Grant, Marine Industry Association of Florida, and U.S. Coast Guard formed the Clean Boating Partnership to help sustain and protect Florida’s coastal resources. As part of the program, marinas and boatyards can be certified as a Florida Clean Marina or Boatyard by voluntarily adopting extra procedures to eliminate water pollution at their facility. Once certified, patrons know these facilities go the extra mile to protect local water quality. Designated facilities provide pumpouts for sewage disposal, prevent spills during fueling, and provide recycling or disposal for oil, batteries, lights, switches, and other hazardous materials. Additionally, these facilities educate boaters on how to protect the environment while boating. To date, the Pensacola area has four designated Clean Marinas and one Clean Boatyard. The Pensacola Shipyard Marine Complex was the first marina in the state to achieve certification. The boatyard at the complex was also one of the first of its kind. Palafox Pier and Seville Harbor marinas joined the program last summer. Just recently, the Santa Rosa Yacht & Boat Club was certified as a Clean Marina and will be recognized on August 14, 2002. For boaters, the Partnership has produced a booklet on Clean Boating Habits that includes tips on petroleum control, cleaning methods, operation, and waste management for your boat. Pick up a booklet from the Sea Grant marine extension agent at the UF-Escambia County Extension office and encourage marinas and boatyards in your area to join the program by insisting that you want the best protection possible for our local waters. Check out the Clean Boating Partnership and Clean Marina web site at: Look for the Clean Marina flag at certified facilities.
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