Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR)

DNR Hosts Free Clean Marina Workshops
Marinas and Boatyards Encouraged to Join Voluntary Clean Up Program

Grasonville, MD — Beginning January 10 the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) will host a series of introductory Clean Marina workshops.  All Maryland marine facilities are encouraged to attend.

The free workshops will provide participants with an overview of the Maryland Clean Marina Initiative and all materials necessary to begin the certification process. A tour of the host facility will highlight actions taken to become certified and prevent pollution (weather permitting). Additionally, free customer education and staff training materials will be provided at the workshops including posters, oil-sorb kits, and a training video.

Dates and Locations:

	January 10, 2008     Mears Point Marina, Grasonville
	January 31, 2008     Eastport Yacht Club, Annapolis
	February 7, 2008     Tidewater Marina, Havre de Grace

All workshops run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and include lunch.  There is no fee to attend but advanced registration is required.  To register, provide name(s) and contact information by email to dmorrow@dnr.state.md.us or phone 410-260-8773.  In the event of inclement weather or low registration, workshops may be rescheduled. 

The Maryland Clean Marina Initiative was established in 1998 with the help of the MTAM as an alternative to further regulations on the marina industry.  The Initiative aims to reduce non-point source pollution by certifying at least 25 percent of the estimated 600 marinas in Maryland.  Currently 124 facilities (approximately 20 percent) are certified as either Clean Marinas or Clean Marina Partners (much smaller facilities with fewer services).

To earn the award, marine facilities must obtain all applicable environmental permits and plans as well as adopt a significant portion of the recommended practices in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook.  A site visit is conducted for the initial certification and again every three years to maintain award criteria.  Full program information and a list of Maryland Clean Marinas can be found on line at www.dnr.maryland.gov/boating.

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