DNR Certifies Port Of Salisbury Marina As Maryland Clean Marina
Two Others Sign Pledge to Participate

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SALISBURY — The Port of Salisbury Marina was certified by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as the 97th Maryland Clean Marina on April 18, 2007. Together with 22 Clean Marina Partners, this brings the total number of certified facilities in Maryland to 119, which represents 19 percent of the estimated 600 boating facilities in the State. Clean Marina Partners are small marine facilities without major services such as repairs and fuel but which meet the goals of pollution prevention by educating customers and visitors, and reducing their own waste.

“We are getting closer every day to meeting our goal of certifying 25 percent of the boating facilities in Maryland as either Clean Marinas or Clean Marina Partners,” said DNR Secretary John R. Griffin. “Each new facility that is added to the program represents a new commitment to a cleaner Chesapeake Bay – and that’s very encouraging.”

To earn the award, the Port of Salisbury Marina, which is owned by the city of Salisbury but staffed by Coastal Properties Management, undertook a thorough review of its fuel systems, permits and emergency plans. Improvements were made where necessary and new systems put into place. Additionally, the marina increased its outreach to customers about clean boating habits through signs and materials.

“I was glad to go through this process. I take anything to do with the environment very seriously,” said marina manager Paul Lewis.

The certification is good for three years, provided that the marina renews it with Clean Marina Program staff in writing annually during that time. DNR staff revisits each Clean Marina at least every three years to ensure managers continue to meet Award standards and comply with environmental regulations.

Two of Wicomico County’s marine facilities also joined the program this month. Harbormaster Greg Rickards signed the Maryland Clean Marina Pledge for both Cedar Hill Marina and Nanticoke Harbor, located in Bivalve, MD just outside of Salisbury. The Pledge is the first step toward becoming certified and indicates that the facilities will “identify opportunities and implement practices to control pollution associated with applicable marina activities.” The Pledge also indicates the County will seek certification for its two facilities within one year.

The Maryland Clean Marina Initiative was begun in 1998 in response to Federal legislation (CZARA 1990 §6217). Participation in the program is voluntary. Marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs of any size can learn more and request free program materials by visiting www.dnr.maryland.gov/boating or by calling 410-260-8773.

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April 26, 2007

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages more than 446,000 acres of public lands and 18,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov