1. Learn about the Clean Marina Initiative
To obtain program information including the Maryland Clean
Marina
Guidebook, the
Pledge form, and the
Award Checklist, marina operators can: attend an introductory workshop,
download the documents from this web page, or contact the Clean Marina office by
e-mail or phone
410-260-8770.
Introductory workshops are held each winter, but it is not
necessary to attend one to participate in the Clean Marina
Program. Workshops are announced via direct mailings to marinas in
our database, statewide press releases, and on the
Clean Marina web page.
2. Take the Clean Marina Pledge
By signing the
Pledge, you commit to “do your part to keep Maryland’s
waterways free of harmful chemicals, excess nutrients, and
debris.” Send us a photocopy of the signed Pledge and then display
the original in a public area so that your customers will be aware
of your commitment to clean water.
The Department of Natural Resources will prepare a news release
acknowledging your participation in the Maryland Clean Marina
Initiative and will include your facility’s name on our web page.
The Pledge expires one year from the date you sign it. If you are
unable to achieve the goal in one year, you may renew the Pledge
by contacting the Clean Marina office or sending in a signed,
current Pledge (contact information below).
3. Assess Your Facility with the Award Checklist
Marinas and boatyards can assess their facilities using the
Clean Marina Award Checklist
and the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook.
Many facilities prefer to have Clean Marina staff conduct an
informal site visit. Following an informal visit, Clean Marina
staff provide site-specific recommendations for meeting the Award
criteria.
4. Call upon a mentor or Clean Marina staff to answer any
questions
Following a self assessment or site visit from Clean Marina
staff, marina operators implement recommended changes at their own
pace. Marina operators are encouraged to call upon the Clean
Marina staff (410-260-8770) or other Clean Marina operators
throughout the process for clarification or assistance with any
aspect of the project.
5. Schedule a Confirmation Visit
Once you are satisfied that your facility meets the minimum
passing scores described on the Award Checklist, call
the Clean Marina office to schedule a confirmation visit. A
Clean
Marina staff member and the operator of a certified Clean Marina will visit your facility to verify the items on
the Award Checklist.
Following the certification visit, Clean Marina staff will let
you know if you have met the Award criteria. If your facility
meets the Award scores, the scores are shared with the Clean
Marina advisory committee, which includes several marina and
boatyard operators, Maryland Department of the Environment staff
(which confirm compliance with applicable State regulations), and
representatives from the Boat U.S. Foundation and the Marine
Trades Association of Maryland, who helped to develop the program.
The committee is given a short comment period.
If there are any questions, program staff will contact you for
clarification. Otherwise, within a few days, staff will inform you
of your status as a Maryland Clean Marina!
6. Enjoy Your Rewards!
As a Maryland Clean Marina, you will be authorized and
encouraged to use the
Clean Marina logo on your letterhead and in your advertising. You
will receive an Award Certificate signed by the Governor, a burgee
and a flag to fly at your facility, a large aluminum sign to
denote your status, and a free online business card on the
Maryland Clean Marina web site.
Your facility will also be acknowledged in Clean Marina
publications and public displays, and benefit from numerous
advertisements promoting Maryland Clean Marinas that are placed in
regional boating publications. Furthermore, the Department of
Natural Resources will issue a news release recognizing your
demonstrated commitment to environmental stewardship.
7. Maintain Your Clean Marina Status
Annually, sign and return the "Affirmation of Good Standing"
that Clean Marina staff will send to you. The "Affirmation"
confirms that you continue to meet the Award standards, and
provides space for you to let us know about any new practices you
may have implemented.
At least
every third year, a Clean Marina representative will contact you
to schedule a meeting to reaffirm
Clean Marina status.
