TOLEDO, Ohio – Pollution and runoff are constant threats to water systems, whether intentional or accidental. In Ohio, marina operators have a unique responsibility to protect the state’s waterways from contamination, acting as the last line of defense before pollution reaches the water. According to Tracey Coe, the Clean Marina Coordinator for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), marinas are in a prime position to make a difference.
“Anything that falls anywhere on the land will eventually become marine debris,” Coe said, highlighting how pollution often ends up in the water system. “We see marinas as the last line of defense. They have the ability to capture and treat water before it enters the environment.”
The Ohio Clean Marinas and Clean Boater Program, which has been active for over two decades, offers a certification for marinas that go above and beyond the necessary requirements to maintain water quality. This program encourages marina operators to implement a range of environmental initiatives, from wildlife habitat restoration to enhanced spill prevention and management.
Each Clean Marina embarks on different projects to ensure they meet certification standards. Some focus on creating educational programs that teach the public about pollution prevention, while others improve the natural environment in their areas. In Toledo, the Bay View Yacht Club has earned a gold-tier Clean Marina designation for its commitment to sustainability, notably its recycling program for boat shrink wrap.
Other marinas, such as Maumee Bay Resort Marina, have chosen to focus on wildlife conservation. Coe noted, “One of the cool things Maumee Bay has done is work on improving wildlife habitat. In addition to setting up birdhouses throughout the marina, they’ve replaced all their windows with bird-friendly glass, so birds don’t collide with it as they fly in.”
The Clean Marina certification program is voluntary, empowering marina operators to take proactive steps in preserving Ohio’s water resources. It also encourages public education, making the community aware of best practices for keeping waterways clean. Coe emphasized the importance of marinas in managing hazardous materials, such as paints and oils, due to their proximity to water.
“Marinas are like auto body shops on the water,” Coe explained. “You have substances like paint, oil, and other hazardous materials, so it’s crucial for marinas to address this, especially since they’re so close to the water.”
By achieving Clean Marina certification, operators demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship, proving that protecting Ohio’s water quality is both a responsibility and a privilege. Through the program, marinas can make a substantial impact on local ecosystems, offering a model of how businesses can play an integral role in preserving the environment for future generations.