BENEFITS

Shalimar Yacht Basin, Shalimar

Since 2000, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Florida Clean Marina Program has been safeguarding Florida’s environment, as well as showcasing the marinas, boatyards and retailers that make a commitment to participate in protecting the state’s natural resources. Becoming a designated member of any one of the Florida Clean Marina Programs offers numerous benefits and advantages to a facility, including the rewarding experience of conserving Florida’s natural environment. Listed below are other ways facilities benefit from becoming a designated member of the Florida Clean Marina Program.

Awareness and Exposure

• Presentation of a Florida Clean Marina Program flag and plaque to proudly display commitment to the environment.
• Promotion on the DEP Web site and use of the Florida Clean Marina Program logo on your marketing materials and Web site.
• Recognition by boaters and the community that the facility is a good environmental citizen, and recognition and promotion by the marine industry that the facility considers the environment an important asset in conducting business.

Saving Money

• Recycling and reusing materials can generate income by reducing disposal fees, decreasing the need to buy new materials and generate sales of recycled goods.
• Grant assistance is available to install pumpout facilities.
• Reduction of future liability and potential clean-up costs.
• Improved cost efficiency of facility operations.
• Possibility of insurance incentives and discounts.

Technical Assistance

• Access to technical assistance from the Florida Sea Grant, United States Coast Guard Program (USCG), USCG Sea Partners, USCG Auxiliary, Marina Mentors from other designated Clean Marinas, the Clean Boating Partnership and staff from the Florida Clean Marina Program before, during and after the designation process.
• Quarterly newsletters of new compliance and environmental regulations provide valuable information on staying above the regulatory curve.
• Receive a comprehensive “Resource Toolkit” with a step-by-step guide to becoming a member of the Florida Clean Marina Program.

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ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Since 2000, the Florida Clean Marina Program and the Clean Boating Partnership have offered resources and expertise to assist Florida’s marine industry in protecting the environment while benefiting the industry. Listed below are a few of the accomplishments and awards credited to the Florida Clean Marina Program and the Clean Boating Partnership.

• Approximately 60,000 oil absorbing bilge socks have been distributed to the public, keeping thousands of gallons of oil out of the water.
• Preventative Fuel Spill Kits have been given to 150 marinas.
• Nearly 20,000 children’s life jackets have been fitted and distributed at outreach events.
• More than 300,000 clean boating habits brochures and handbooks have been distributed to the public.
• More than 25,000 pounds of material and 75,000 gallons of oil have been recycled.
• In 2001, the Florida Clean Marina Program received the Gulf Guardian Award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Clean Boating Partnership received the same award in 2003.
• In 2001, DEP received the Sustainable Florida Award for creating the Clean Boating Partnership from the Council for Sustainable Florida.
• In 2001, the Florida Clean Marina Program received the Clean Vessel Act Program Excellence Award from the State Organization for Boating Access.

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