Gov. Crist highlights Clean Marina program

Governor Charlie Crist joined Secretary Michael W. Sole of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to recognize Florida's Clean Marina Program at the Clearwater Municipal Marina. The Governor also announced the launch of the Clean Marina Program Web site.

"Marinas contribute to our economy through trade, tourism and recreation," said Governor Crist. "The Clean Marina Program is an outstanding public/ private partnership and has been emulated by several other states - a true testament to Florida's leadership."

The Clean Marina Program is a public/ private partnership between the State of Florida and the marine industry. Through the Clean Boating Partnership, the Clean Marina Program works with marine facilities to adopt environmentally friendly practices beyond standard regulatory requirements.

"Florida's Clean Marinas represent more than 18,000 wet slips that comply with 125 environmental measures designed to protect Florida's waterways," said Secretary Sole. "It is an honor to work with partners who recognize the importance of restoring and preserving Florida's natural resources, and I hope to continue this strong relationship for Florida's future generations."

About the Clean Boating Partnership and the Clean Marina Program

Florida's Clean Boating Partnership includes DEP, marina and boatyard owners and operators, Marine Industries Association of Florida, Florida Sea Grant Program and the United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary. The partnership was formed to help protect Florida's marine resources and targets four main areas: boaters, marinas, boatyards and marine retailers. Members educate the boating community about pollution prevention through sponsored workshops, technical assistance, conferences and dedication ceremonies.

The Clean Boating Partnership developed the Clean Marina, Clean Boatyard, Clean Marine Retailer and Clean Boater programs to protect Florida's waterways. To date, the Clean Marina program has recognized 145 clean marinas, 26 clean boatyards and four clean marine retailers.

About the Clean Marina Program Web Site

Governor Crist and Secretary Sole also announced a new Clean Marina Program Web site. The site contains information on Clean Boating Partnership programs as well as lists of designated facilities and members of the partnership.

"With thousands of marine facilities and more than one million registered vessels in Florida, the Clean Marina program helps ensure a healthy future for our beautiful natural environment and Florida's marine industry," said Governor Crist.

For more information, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina.