Chapter 5
ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS
ere are numerous vessels operating on our waterways on a daily
basis. Each boat has as impact on our environment. Boat operation
habits, marine sanitation, and maintenance all play a role in a delicate
battle to keep the ecosystem clean. Each of us has a role in doing
our part as a environmentally conscious skipper to conserve our
waterways.
e National Marine Manufacturer's Association lists their top ten
of Eco-Boating Practices as follows:
1. Observe all regulatory agency policies regarding marine toilets.
2. If equipped with a holding tank, use marina pump-out facilities.
3. If used, make sure bottom paints are legal and ecosystem friendly.
4. Use only biodegradable cleaning agents.
5. Dispose of all garbage and liter on shore properly, not on the water.
6. Don't top o fuel tanks. Leave expansion room. Clean up spills.
7. Watch your wake and propeller wash.
8. Make sure your engines are well tuned and maintained.
9. Control your bilge water.
10. When shing, practice the "catch and release" principle.
Follow these basic practices when on the waterways. Treat the
environment in a way that you would like to be treated.
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