About

As a marina owner or operator, you know that geography and time constraints can limit training opportunities. The Clean Marina Resource Guide is designed to remove that obstacle. This guide is a convenient way for marina operators to access the information needed to become a certified Clean Marina.

Training was initially based on the Michigan Clean Marina Guidebook, used by marinas as part of the certification process since 2004. The regional guide was developed as part of a Great Lakes Restoration Initiative grant. The grant project brought together organizations — throughout the Great Lakes and beyond — to identify best management practices that are key in protecting and maintaining water quality.

The project began with the common goal of Clean Marina programs across the country: to help reduce or eliminate pollution from boating and marina activities from entering water systems. This Resource Guide is the culmination of the project.

This guide, consisting of nine units, provides an overview of those best management practices in situations common to marina operations. You are encouraged to go through all of the units — even if you think it may not apply to your situation. Each unit is broken into sections that focus on a particular issue under the general unit category. That is followed by specific BMPs that marina operators are encouraged to incorporate into everyday operations.

Why Become a Certified Clean Marina?

Marinas represent the coastal community in many ways. You are economic drivers, gathering places, access points to recreation and natural resources — and environmental stewards. Because the very nature of marinas requires their locations to overlap with crucial and often-fragile coastal land, you have an important role as the guardians of our coastal resources and water quality.

Clean Marina programs are voluntary stewardship programs open to all public and private marinas. The programs are often unique partnerships between industry associations, non-governmental organizations, Sea Grant programs and state government.

Clean Marina Program Benefits

  • Reduce pollution and improve water quality.
  • Protect fish, plant and wildlife habitat.
  • Enhance public image by promoting environmentally sound practices.
  • Save money by implementing cost-effective practices.

Existing State Clean Marina Programs and Additional Resources

Several Great Lakes states, including Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin, have active Clean Marina programs while others are still in various stages of development. While this classroom can be used in many ways, it is an important step in seeking certification for these states. For details on each program, see Clean Marina programs.

Please do not hesitate to contact your state representative. They can help identify and address any obstacles in the Clean Marina process that you or your marina facility may be facing.