DNR Certifies Three New Maryland Clean Marinas
Two Anne Arundel County and One Baltimore County
Marinas Boost Statewide Clean Marina Total To 124

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ANNAPOLIS, MD — The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Clean Marinas Initiative recently certified three new “Clean Marinas” - Chesapeake Yacht Club and Clark’s Landing Boat Sales in Shady Side (Anne Arundel County), and Riverside Marine in Essex (Baltimore County). Their certification brings the total number of “Clean Marinas” in Maryland to 124, which is twenty percent of the estimated 600 marine facilities in the State.

“We are proud to now be certified as a Clean Marina,” said Clark’s Landing Operations Manager, Nancy Pack. “We have printed a new sign and brochures to help educate our boaters.”

In addition to confirming that required permits or safety plans are in place, certified Clean Marinas also work to educate their customers and outside contractors about pollution prevention through contracts, signage, and outreach. Pollution prevention covers areas such as waste disposal, fueling practices, and vessel maintenance and repair. Clean Marinas also train staff on emergency planning and environmental precautions throughout the year.

“I think it really shows the flexibility of this program that we have a private yacht club certified right alongside two boat dealerships,” said DNR Clean Marina Administrator Donna Morrow. “We understand the businesses and the award criteria are not so rigid that they exclude facilities that may not be standard marinas. I hope these new Clean Marinas spur other facilities to participate,” Morrow added.

Maryland’s Clean Marina Initiative, coordinated in partnership with the Marine Trades Association of Maryland, promotes voluntary adoption of pollution prevention measures and seeks to certify at least 25 percent (roughly 150 marinas) of Maryland’s marinas. Marinas are certified by DNR as “Maryland Clean Marinas” after they adopt recommendations in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook and pass a site inspection by DNR and industry representatives. Marinas, boatyards, and yacht clubs of any size are encouraged to learn more about the voluntary Clean Marina Initiative.

DNR will hold free introductory workshops in January and February for marine facility managers interested in learning more about the Initiative. For more information about Maryland’s Clean Marina Initiative, visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/boating, email dmorrow@dnr.state.md.us or call 410-260-8773.
 

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December 17, 20077

Contact: Olivia Campbell 410-260-8016 office I 410-507-7525 cell ocampbell@dnr.state.md.us

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 449,000 acres of public lands and 17,000 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 12 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