FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 15, 2013
CERTIFIED MARINAS CELEBRATE A DECADE OF ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
~Clean Marina Program honors 21 marinas for dedication to protecting Florida’s waterways~
TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Clean Marina Program recognizes 21 marinas for a decade of commitment to environmental stewardship as designated Clean Marina facilities. Fifty marinas have been in the program a decade or more this year as well.
“We want to congratulate these facilities for their dedication to protecting Florida’s marine environment over the last ten years,” said DEP's Office of Sustainable Initiatives Director Brad Stombock. “By helping protect Florida’s waterways, these marinas are ensuring the health of the state’s environment and economy.”
Since 2000, the Department has encouraged clean boating through the development of designation programs that recognize facilities engaging in environmentally friendly practices in and around Florida’s waterways. To date, the program has designated 270 marinas, 40 boatyards and 17 retailers as clean facilities.
To become designated as a Clean Marina, facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to protect Florida’s waterways. These measures address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitat, waste management, stormwater control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness. In exchange for this voluntary measure, the Department promotes these marinas and other green businesses on its website, at boat shows and speaking engagements.
"As we recognize the 10th anniversary of the designation of our municipal facilities Dinner Key Marina and Miamarina at Bayside as Clean Marinas, the City of Miami reaffirms our commitment to improving the quality of our waters and environment through effective best management practices, education and outreach to our customers and the boating public, and sharing of innovative ideas, products, and information with our municipal marina partners in the Florida Municipal Marinas Association," said Stephen Bogner, Marinas Manager for the city of Miami. "Clean marinas, and pristine waters, are good business for everyone."
With more than 1,350 miles of coastline, 50,000 miles of inland and coastal rivers and streams, 700 freshwater springs and countless lakes, Floridians depend on water more than any other natural resource. 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 waterways and coastlines to be clean.
For a list of the 21 Clean Marina facilities that have been in the program for 10 years, visit the DEP Online Newsroom.
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