“Clean water is vital to Florida’s environment and economy. Clean Marinas, Clean Boatyards and Clean Marine Retailers lead the way in protecting this precious resource.” ~Michael Sole DEP Secretary

Florida is defined by water. With more than 1,350 miles of coastline, 50,000 miles of inland and coastal rivers and streams, 700 freshwater springs and countless lakes, Floridians depend on water more than any other natural resource. The continued success of the state’s $56 billion tourism industry, its $14 billion marine industry and $6.6 billion fishing industry rely on Florida’s waterways and coastlines to be clean. Since 2000, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has encouraged clean boating through the development of the following designation programs which recognize facilities engaging in environmentally friendly practices, beyond regulatory requirements, in and around Florida’s waterways:

	Clean Marina The Florida Clean Marina Program is a voluntary designation program with a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. Participants receive assistance in implementing Best Management Practices through on-site and distance technical assistance, mentoring by other Clean Marinas and continuing education. To become designated as a Clean Marina, facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to protect Florida’s waterways. These measures address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitat, waste management, stormwater control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness. Designated facilities and those facilities seeking designation receive ongoing technical support from the Florida Clean Marina Program and the Clean Boating Partnership.
	Clean Boatyard The Florida Clean Boatyard Program is a voluntary designation program that encourages boatyards to implement environmentally conscious practices. Measures such as using dustless sanders, oil and solvent recycling and re-circulating pressure wash systems to recycle wastewater help to preserve the state’s natural resources for future generations.
	Clean Marine Retailer The Florida Clean Marine Retailer Program is a voluntary designation program that encourages marine retailers to educate boaters by providing information to those who purchase vessels on clean boating practices. A Clean Marine Retailer employs environmental Best Management Practices in its boat and engine service operations and facilities.
	Clean Boater The Florida Clean Boater Program encourages boaters to use Florida’s Clean Marinas, Boatyards & Marine Retailers. Boaters are also encouraged to safeguard the state’s waterways by adopting environmentally friendly practices such as proper trash management, using bilge socks and fueling collars as well as practicing recycling habits.
	Clean Vessel Act The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) is a federally funded grant program administered by the Florida Clean Marina Program for the construction of pumpout facilities and pumpout vessels at marina and boatyard sites. The CVA program supports educational and public awareness programs on the importance and practice of keeping raw sewage out of Florida’s waterways.