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These are programs designed to bring awareness to boaters and facilities regarding environmentally-friendly practices to conserve Florida’s marine environment. The continued success of the state’s $56 billion tourism industry, its $14 billion marine industry and $6.6 billion fishing industry rely on Florida’s coastlines and waterways to be clean. Since 2000, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has encouraged clean boating through the development of voluntary designation programs with a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. These programs are:

Clean Marina - facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to protect Florida’s waterways that address issues such as sensitive habitat, stormwater control, waste management, spill prevention and emergency preparedness.

Clean Boatyard - boatyards are encouraged to implement environmentally conscious practices such as the use of dustless sanders, oil and solvent recycling and re-circulating pressure wash systems to recycle wastewater.

Clean Marine Retailer - encourages marine retailers to educate boaters by providing information to those who purchase vessels on clean boating practices.

Clean Boater- boaters are encouraged to safeguard the state’s waterways by adopting environmentally friendly practices such as proper trash management, using bilge socks and fueling collars.

Additional Resources:

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina/default.htm