Page 11 - Mid America Boating - April 2024 issue

Ohio Clean Marinas orative effort between the Ohio Department of recreational opportunities.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use
Natural Resources Division of Parks and Water-
craft, the Ohio Department of Natural Resourc- and protection of our natural resources for
program honors leaders in es Office of Coastal Management, and the Ohio the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at
Sea Grant College Program designed to encour-
ohiodnr.gov.
age marinas and boaters to use simple, innova- Ohio Sea Grant is supported by The Ohio
environmental stewardship tive solutions to keep Ohio’s coastal and inland State University College of Food, Agricultural,
waterway resources clean. The program assists and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) School of
in protecting clean water and fresh air for gener- Environment and Natural Resources, Ohio State
The Ohio Clean Marinas team, consisting of tailored to the marina industry. ations of boaters to come. University Extension, and NOAA Sea Grant, a
a partnership between the Ohio Department Highlighting the commitment and The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft network of 34 Sea Grant programs nation-wide
of Natural Resources (ODNR) and the Ohio outstanding achievements of marinas provides exceptional outdoor recreation and dedicated to the protection and sustainable
Sea Grant College Program, hosted the 8th and partners in advancing environmental boating opportunities by balancing outstand- use of marine and Great Lakes resources. Stone 11 [ MID-AMERICA BOATING ] APRIL 2024
annual Ohio Marina Conference on Thursday, sustainability, the Ohio Clean Marinas Program ing customer service, education, and conserva- Laboratory is Ohio State’s island campus on
Feb. 29, at Maumee Bay State Park Lodge and proudly recognized several deserving recipients tion of Ohio’s 75 state parks and waterways. Lake Erie and is the research, education, and
Convention Center. The event drew over 100 through its awards program. In 2024, join ODNR as we celebrate 75 years outreach facility of Ohio Sea Grant and part
industry professionals and stakeholders who Atwood Lake Boats was selected as the Marina of protecting Ohio’s natural resources and of CFAES School of Environment and Natural
convened to explore innovative strategies of the Year for their exceptional dedication to providing outstanding and award-winning Resources. MAB
for sustainable marina operations and boat shrink wrap recycling with the Muskingum
environmental stewardship. Watershed Conservancy District. Ohio River
“We are incredibly proud to honor these Way was acknowledged as the Partner of the
deserving recipients for their unwavering Year for their invaluable support in expanding
commitment to environmental preservation and the Clean Marinas program to southern Ohio,
sustainable business practices,” ODNR Director fostering environmental stewardship along the
Mary Mertz said. “Their dedication sets a shining Ohio River.
example for the entire industry and underscores The following list of marinas and partners
the importance of collective action in safeguard- were also recognized as newly certified marinas:
ing our waterways for future generations.” Platinum Level – Atwood Lake Boats West Year-Round Clubhouse, Restaurant & Lounge
Dedicated to fostering collaboration and Marina and Atwood Lake Boats East Marina; 365 Slip Marina | Heated Pool w/Tiki Bar
knowledge exchange, the conference featured Gold Level – Clendening Marina; and Robust Power & Sail Fleets
an array of distinguished speakers and panel Base Level – Oasis Marina at North Coast
discussions covering critical topics such as the Harbor, The Boathouse at Stroud’s Run, Superi- Junior & Adult Learn to Sail
detection of harmful algal blooms, prevention or Marine Group, and Tappan Marina. 6700 Memorial Shoreway NW
of aquatic invasive species, carbon monoxide Additionally, the following list of marinas and
safety measures, and effective marketing strate- partners were recertified: Cleveland, Ohio 44102
gies for sustainable businesses. Gold Level – Buck Creek State Park Marina www.eycweb.com
In the afternoon sessions, attendees engaged Base Level – Fairport Harbor Rod and Reel
in insightful discussions on marine debris Association, Battery Park Marina, Oasis Marina (216) 281-6470
management, recycling initiatives, and explored at Port Lorain, and SkipperBud’s Marina Del Isle.
available grants and technical assistance The Ohio Clean Marinas Program is a collab-

THINK LIFE JACKETS ARE NOT FOR YOU? THINK AGAIN.

In Ohio, 82% of the drowning victims in recreational boating
accidents were not wearing a life jacket.

Always wear a life jacket while boating.

Get the facts at: ohiodnr.gov/lifejackets