FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jan. 27, 2012
DEP’S CLEAN MARINA PROGRAM REACHES
250TH DESIGNATION
~Program recognizes clean marinas that implement environmental measures designed to protect Florida’s waterways~
 Yachts of all sizes anchored at Sarasota Yacht Club.
TALLAHASSEE- The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Clean Marina Program yesterday evening designated Sarasota Yacht Club as Florida’s 250th Clean Marina.
“We want to congratulate the Sarasota Yacht Club on becoming the 250th designated Clean Marina in the state,” said DEP’s Director of Sustainable Initiatives Brad Stombock. “The dedication and hard work in becoming a Clean Marina is an accomplishment this facility should be proud of, and we’re excited to welcome it to our growing Clean Marina family.”
The Clean Marina program recognizes marinas and boatyards for their commitment to the protection of Florida’s waterways and natural resources. In addition to Clean Marinas, the program consists of 37 Clean Boatyards and 16 Clean Retailers as of Jan. 10, 2012.
The Sarasota Yacht Club demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship by starting a recycling program, offering pumpout service and adding a pet sanitation area with signage and waste collection bags.
Also, the Club installed a trench drain at its boat ramp, which captures runoff water from boats before it enters the water body. Manatee signs and hurricane preparation have been added to the lease agreement. The marina continues to educate staff on clean marina safety.
“The Sarasota Yacht Club takes an active role in protecting Florida's natural resources by hosting annual fundraisers to support oyster reef restoration projects in Sarasota Bay,” said DEP Southwest District Director Gary Colecchio.
There are seven steps to designation, which a verified in a confirmation visit from team of Florida Clean Marina Program and Clean Boating Partnership representatives once criteria have been met. A DEP representative also visits the facility to verify the marina’s Action Plan.
“We are pleased to receive this important certification,” said Bernhard G. Kloppenburg, the general manager of Sarasota Yacht Club. “Our members share our interest in engaging in environmentally sound practices and we all recognize the role we play in protecting Florida’s waterways.”
Other designated marinas in Sarasota County include: Crow’s Nest Marina, Gulf Harbor Marina, Hyatt Regency Sarasota Marina, Marina Jack and Venice Yacht Club.
Established in 2000, the Florida Clean Marina Program is a voluntary, non-regulatory designation program that acknowledges and rewards environmentally conscious marine facilities.
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