By Nicki Polan, Executive Director for the Michigan Boating Industries Association
In 2025, the Michigan Clean Marina Program (MCMP) proudly marks its 20th anniversary, celebrating two decades of leadership in environmental stewardship, education, and industry collaboration.
Launched in 2005, this voluntary program has grown to become a national model, demonstrating how partnerships, innovation, and commitment to best practices can yield powerful results for both the environment and the boating industry.
At the heart of the program’s success is a unique collaboration between the Michigan Boating Industries Association (MBIA), the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), and Michigan Sea Grant. This diverse coalition of government, academia, and industry has worked tirelessly to promote sustainable practices in marina management while supporting economic vitality in Michigan’s boating sector.
A growing legacy: 104 certified Clean Marinas
Three marinas were pioneers of the program and the first to be certified in 2005: MacRay Harbor in Harrison Township, Safe Harbor Belle Maer in Harrison Township, and Walstrom Marine in Harbor Springs. These marinas were recognized for this achievement during the 2025 Progressive Metro Boat Show at Lake St. Clair Metropark.
Representatives from Walstrom Marine, MacRay Harbor and Safe Harbor Belle Maer with a specialty CMP 20-year flag. Photo Credit: MBIA
One of the most impressive milestones in the MCMP’s 20-year history is the certification of 104 Clean Marinas across the state—a number believed to be higher than any other state in the country. These marinas have voluntarily committed to implementing a suite of best management practices aimed at protecting Michigan’s water resources and fisheries, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing the boating experience for all.
“Michigan has always been a leader in freshwater conservation,” said Nicki Polan, Executive Director of MBIA. “Our Clean Marina Program reflects that commitment, and the fact that we have over 100 certified marinas speaks volumes about the passion and dedication of marina owners and operators in this state.”
Voluntary, but valuable: Why marinas choose to participate
The Michigan Clean Marina Program is entirely voluntary, but the benefits of participation are substantial. Certification requires marinas to meet standards related to pollution prevention, waste management, fueling procedures, and emergency preparedness. These practices not only safeguard the environment but often lead to operational cost savings, reduced liability, and increased customer satisfaction.
Moreover, insurance providers increasingly recognize Clean Marina certification as a sign of reduced risk, offering financial incentives such as policy discounts to certified facilities. This adds a compelling business case to the already strong environmental rationale for participation.
“Becoming a Clean Marina helped us identify areas where we could reduce waste, improve safety, and streamline operations,” said one marina manager from northern Michigan. “It was a win-win—for our bottom line and for the lake we love.”
Education at the core
Education has always been central to the program’s mission. Through Michigan Sea Grant, marina operators receive training and resources that help them meet certification standards. The curriculum includes topics such as stormwater management, fueling station best practices, waste handling, and environmentally friendly maintenance techniques. This educational component ensures that the certification is more than a checkbox—it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and environmental responsibility throughout the marina industry.
“Our goal is to empower marinas with the knowledge and tools they need to make smart, sustainable decisions,” said Mark Breederland, a Michigan Sea Grant Extension Educator and Chair of the Michigan Clean Marina Foundation Board. “It’s about more than compliance—it’s about building a future where recreation and conservation go hand in hand.”
Mark Breederland (left) and MCMP Specialist Brian Kelley (right) are integral to the success of this program. Photo Credit: MBIA
Boaters are taking notice
As the program has grown, so has its visibility among boaters. Many recreational boaters are now actively seeking out Certified Clean Marinas as preferred destinations, knowing that these facilities prioritize environmental care, water quality, and customer experience.
The Clean Marina logo has become a symbol of trust on Michigan’s waterways—indicating that a marina has taken the extra steps necessary to preserve the beauty and health of the Great Lakes and inland waters.
“Boaters want to support businesses that share their values,” said Polan. “Clean Marinas offer peace of mind—they know their boats are being stored and serviced in a place that respects the natural resources we all depend on.”
MBIA is finishing up a 3-year grant through EGLE which has helped them educate boaters on their role in helping to stop the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) through the Clean, Drain, Dry campaign.
Looking ahead: Expanding the program’s impact
With two decades of success behind it, the Michigan Clean Marina Program is now setting its sights on the future. Plans are underway to further modernize the training curriculum, enhance online resources, and expand outreach to underserved communities and smaller marinas that may face unique challenges in achieving certification.
Additionally, the program is exploring new partnerships and funding opportunities to support continued growth. The goal is not only to increase the number of certified marinas but also to deepen the program’s impact by fostering innovation in green infrastructure, energy efficiency, and resilience to climate change.
As Michigan continues to lead the way in protecting the Great Lakes and promoting sustainable recreation, the MCMP stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when government, academia, and industry work together toward a common goal.
For more information about the Michigan Clean Marina Program, or to find a certified Clean Marina near you, visit www.michigancleanmarina.org.
