FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  November 21, 2002

Cedar Bay Marina First ‘Clean Marina’ on Marco Island

Fort Myers - The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Marine Industries Association, and Florida Sea Grant formally recognized Cedar Bay Marina as a ‘Clean Marina’ today (11-21-02) with the presentation of a plaque and flag. Cedar Bay Marina is the first marina in Marco Island and the fifty-fourth (54th) in the state of Florida to achieve this designation.

Marinas that achieve designation not only comply with the regulations but also go beyond compliance to protect Florida’s waterways. The criteria for evaluating marinas were developed by the Clean Boating Partnership and include expertise from industry, government and educational institutions. Recipients must address environmental management issues such as sensitive habitat, waste management, storm water control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness. Staff training and boater education are also important components of the program.

Purchased in 1997 by Jack Antaramian, Cedar Bay Marina is a full-service marina with dry storage, boat sales, ship’s store, boat rentals and service. It is located on East Elkcam Circle and has access to the Marco River and the Gulf of Mexico. To better protect Florida’s waters, Cedar Bay Marina has installed a recycling system to capture and treat wastewater from boat washing and has switched to a biodegradable, 100% vegetable oil product for hydraulic lifts. In addition Cedar Bay Marina has taken a very active role in supporting their community and providing educational opportunities. Cedar Bay Marina was recommended for designation by a review team including Laura Comer- South District Clean Marina Program Coordinator, Bob Wasno - Florida Sea Grant, and Jim Mathisen on behalf of the Marine Industries Association of Collier County. DEP’s Director of District Management, Richard Cantrell presented the honor, which was accepted by Scott Hopkins, General Manager. DEP’s statewide Clean Marina Program Manager, Jan DeLaney was also available for the presentation.

"Marco Island is connected with our natural environment through its geographic location, said Richard Cantrell, district director. "This designation highlights Cedar Bay's commitment to protect the natural beauty that surrounds Marco Island, ultimately preserving the Island's native ambiance."

Cedar Bay Marina joins five other Southwest Florida marinas in achieving this designation: Barefoot Boat Club in Naples, Bonita Bay Marina Club in Bonita Springs, Naples Marina and Boating Center, Southpointe Marina at Windstar in Naples, and Tarpon Point Marina in Cape Coral. Twenty (20) additional marinas in the area have made a commitment to work toward this achievement.