HOLLYWOOD, Md. (May 15, 2012) — Blackstone Marina, serving boaters of the Patuxent River on Cuckhold Creek since 1964, has been certified as the latest Maryland Clean Marina.
“Following the recommendations of the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook has enabled us to become a very clean marina,” said owner Les Gould. “We have found our boaters are eager to assist us in implementing sound pollution control practices.”
To meet award criteria, Marina Office Manager Lois Canter created a stormwater pollution prevention plan, wrote marina rules and regulations and devised emergency response procedures. The marina also maintains a pumpout station and an emergency fuel spill response kit.
“It was a pleasure working with Blackstone Marina to meet the award criteria. Their willingness to do what was needed made the whole process fun,” said Donna Morrow, coordinator of the Clean Marina Program. “We encourage more marinas to join the program with this spirit to help protect our waterways.”
Blackstone Marina provides boat haul-out and repair services, pumpout service and dockage. In addition to regular slips, the marina also has covered and lift slips for boats from 20 to 40 feet long.
This is the 123rd certified Maryland Clean Marina. There are a total of 148 certified facilities in Maryland, including 25 smaller Clean Marina partners. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversees the Clean Marina Initiative, a voluntary program that promotes and celebrates efforts of marinas, boatyards and yacht clubs to reduce their pollution.
Each of the 148 certified facilities has adopted a significant portion of recommendations in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook and passed a rigorous site inspection. Certifications are good for three years, at which time DNR staff re-inspects the marinas. Marinas and boatyards of any size can participate.
More information and free program materials are available by calling 410-260-8773 or visiting dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina.
Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources