Ocean and Waterway Conservation for Boaters

As a boater or marina operator, you are in a unique position to be a true steward of our ocean, lakes, and waterways, and Ocean Conservancy's Good Mate program gives you the know-how.

5 Ways Boaters Can Protect Our Ocean & Waterways

B e a leader in your community. Talk about marine litter prevention with members of your boating community, from your neighbor in the next slip to boating clubs and marina managers.

O ffer your time. Volunteer in boat and marina cleanup programs, especially at sites only accessible by boat. And participate in Ocean Conservancy's annual International Coastal Cleanup, the largest volunteer effort of its kind for the ocean.

A ccidents happen. Be prepared with absorbent pads to clean oil or fuel spills. Dish soap doesn't work. It just causes those liquids to sink and contaminate the bottom.

T ake it all back to shore. Don't allow cigarette butts to go overboard; small but significant, they are the most prevalent marine litter item found during the International Coastal Cleanup. Dispose of them properly onshore.

S et the pace. Recycle everything you can, from beverage containers to propeller-snarling fishing line or plastic bags.

» Print a PDF handout or poster of this information.

One community's actions, an ocean of difference.

Recreational boating means enjoying freedom and natural beauty out on the water - but stop and think for a minute, and you'll realize that the very nature of boating makes it a potential source for water pollution. The good news is that every boater and marina operator can take simple, practical steps to protect both the boating experience and the water. And by sharing what you learn from Good Mate with the greater boating community, you can bring even more people on board and truly start a sea change.

Good Mate outlines safe boating practices - practical steps you can use today. We break them down into six manageable categories. Click on the categories below to see tips for each. To order the Good Mate brochure or CD, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

It's time to look beyond the bow.

You've seen the damage carelessness can inflict on rivers, lakes, and the ocean where you cruise. Pollution from litter, cleaning products, sewage, and oil/and fuel are among the threats that make the things boaters love to do on the water—swimming, fishing, watching wildlife—somehow less complete, less inspiring.

Don't wait... participate! Put green boating into practice today.

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