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The Clean Vessel Act, Clean Marina, Clean Boater and Clean Boating Partnership programs are all located under the Clean Boating Programs.

The goal of the Clean Boating Programs is to promote a clean marine environment by building partnerships with marinas and educating the community about the importance of keeping Florida waters clean to reduce water pollution and improve water quality. These clean programs also provide outreach to marinas and their boaters.

Clean Vessel Act Grant Program

This is a federal program that provides grant funds to the states. State governmental agencies partner with local governments, private marinas and others to fund eligible projects. In Florida, the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Grant Program is administered through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection in Tallahassee.

You can apply for CVA grant funds for the construction, renovation, operations and maintenance of pumpout stations and waste reception facilities for recreational boaters, and for educational programs that inform boaters of the importance of proper disposal of sewage. 

Clean Marina Program

This is a voluntary designation program with a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. The program encourages marinas, boatyards and marine retailers to incorporate best management practices (BMPs) that exceed regulatory requirements. To become designated as a Florida Clean Marina, facilities must meet regulatory requirements and implement BMPs designed to protect Florida’s waterways and address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitats, waste management, stormwater control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness.

Facilities may also become designated as a Clean & Resilient facility. This program recognizes facilities that have achieved additional levels of environmental responsibility and sustainability. It is an expansion of BMPs currently in place and provides additional recommendations to strengthen a facility's ability to withstand natural and human-made disasters. All designated facilities receive ongoing technical support from the Clean Marina Programs and the Clean Boating Partnership.

Clean Boater Program

The Clean Boater Program is a voluntary initiative that seeks to involve boaters in protecting Florida’s waterways through education on the importance of protecting the state’s native vegetation, wildlife and natural environment. In collaboration with the Clean Marina Programs, it provides guidance on adopting environmentally-friendly practices, including proper trash management, using bilge socks and fueling collars, EPA Safer Choice products, recycling and other clean boater habits. Boaters take the pledge to show participation in helping keep the waters clean.

Clean Boating Partnership

The partnership is a successful collaboration between industry and government entities working to maintain a clean boating environment in Florida. The partnership's goals are to motivate marine industry members to protect the environment, allowing boaters to enjoy recreational activities in and around Florida's waterways. Its achievements align with DEP's goal of "creating strong community partnerships, safeguarding Florida's natural resources and enhancing ecosystems." By establishing partnerships with local communities and businesses, the Clean Boating Partnership strives for the preservation of Florida's environmental resources.

Highlights

Webinar and Training Resources

For information about upcoming presentations/webinars please contact: Clean.Marina.Program@FloridaDEP.gov. The Clean Boating Programs plan to host biannual webinars for marinas that are interested in grant funding for pumpout projects and how to become designated as a Clean and Resilient marina. If you missed our last webinar you can review the presentations below. Build America Buy America ...Read More