FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 9, 2014
OLD
NAPLES SEAPORT MARINA DESIGNATED AS A CLEAN MARINA
~Naples marina is the 280th member of the Florida Clean Marina program~
NAPLES – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, together
with the Clean Boating Partnership, welcomes the Old Naples Seaport Marina to the
Florida Clean Marina Program. This voluntary state initiative recognizes
marinas and boatyards for their commitment to the protection of Florida’s
waterways and natural resources.
“It is wonderful to see the Old
Naples Seaport Marina joining an elite group of environmental stewards that
implement green practices," said Brenda Leonard, program administrator for the DEP's Office of Environmental Education and
Sustainable Initiatives. “Protecting Florida’s marine resources is instrumental to the continued
health of both the state’s natural and business environments.”
The department's South District Director Jon Iglehart joined Naples Mayor John F. Sorey III and Donn Schulte, president of America Marine Management in
celebrating Old Naples Seaport Marina’s new designation during the facility’s
grand opening celebration.
“We are extremely pleased to receive the Clean Marina
designation. All of the marinas using America Marine Management have now received
this valuable recognition," said Schulte. "A very special thank you to Pat Flanary
who from our side made this happen."
Old Naples Seaport Marina is Florida’s 280th Clean Marina
and is being recognized today for their commitment to environmental stewardship
by initiating best management practices, including emergency preparedness and
pumpout services for boaters. Located in Naples historic district, Old Naples Seaport
Marina offers quick access to the Florida Gulf. The marina is equipped with floating docks accessible to larger vessels and is part of a waterfront
community supporting the boating lifestyle.
“We are excited to celebrate Old Naples Seaport Marina as Florida’s next Clean Marina,” said Mayor Sorey. “This clean marina
designation will help Naples Bay return to its original water quality one drop
at a time.”
To become a designated member of the Florida Clean Marina
Program, facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to
protect Florida’s waterways. These measures address critical environmental
issues such as sensitive habitats, waste management, stormwater control, spill
prevention and emergency preparedness.
Florida has more than one million registered motorized
vessels and more than 2,000 marinas - the largest number of marine facilities
in the country. Drawing millions of visitors each year, Florida’s clear waters,
world-class beaches and coral reefs support a $67.2 billion tourism industry,
an $18.4 billion boating industry and a fishing industry that injects more than
$6.9 billion a year into Florida’s communities.
For more information about the Florida Clean Marina Program, click here.
|