As participants in the Michigan Clean Marina Program, marinas voluntarily pledge to maintain and improve Michigan’s waterways by reducing or eliminating releases of harmful substances and phasing out practices that can damage aquatic environments. To date, more than 100 marinas have been awarded certification. Since the program began in 2005, more than 50 marinas have been recertified, showing continued commitment to keeping Michigan waters clean.
Our boaters are glad to be at a marina that is certified as a Michigan Clean Marina. They help educate one another, and participate in active conversations in relation to best practices. – Jeff Linn, Huron-Clinton Metroparks
Daniel McCormick of South Shore Marine LLC, says earning Clean Marina certification was “a great achievement” and that he’d be happy to help another marina go through the certification process. “I think everybody should be part of this.” Read more
Why Clean Marinas are important to boaters
“We enjoy being here because it’s clean, and neat…
we all have to do our part to keep Michigan waters beautiful.”
Achieving Clean Marina Status
To receive certification as a Michigan Clean Marina, participants need to complete the Steps to Certification, including training, a self-evaluation checklist and a site visit. Certified Clean Marinas strive for continuous improvement in daily environmental stewardship practices. Benefits to becoming a certified Clean Marina:
- Reducing insurance and waste disposal costs
- Reducing pollution and improving water quality
- Protecting fish and wildlife habitat
- Enhancing public image by promoting environmentally sound practices
Online or In-Person Training
Marina owners and operators now have an open resource they can access 24/7 to assist in the certification process: The Clean Marina Resource Guide (formerly the Clean Marina Classroom). This guide includes details on recommended and mandatory practices of the Clean Marina Program. It includes photos and videos of best management practices and a review of relevant laws and regulations.
It’s highly recommended that pledged marinas and new marina owners and operators review the Resource Guide, watch training videos, and attend an in person or virtual certification workshop.
Certified Clean Marinas are also encouraged to review the Resource Guide as they complete the steps for recertification and attend an in-person workshop when possible to network and support the pledged marinas.
See: Clean Marina Resource Guide (website) | Clean Marina certification workshop (website)