Oregon Clean Marina Program: How to Obtain Marina Certification

One significant way in which Marinas can further their environmental goals is by becoming certified as environmentally responsible entities. This initiative not only aligns with Portland's dedication to preserving its natural beauty but also offers numerous benefits to marina owners, boating enthusiasts, and the entire community.

Website: Oregon Clean Marina Program

There are a number of requirements that must be done before a marina is able to be certified.  The following list is essential before certification can be attained:

1. Learn about the Program: To embark on the journey toward becoming a certified marina, it's essential to acquaint yourself with the Oregon Clean Marina Program. For detailed information, reach out to the program coordinator, Glenn Dolphin, at glenn.dolphin@boat.oregon.gov or call at 503-856-6709.

2. Take the Clean Marina Pledge: Commence your certification process by taking the Clean Marina pledge. Sign the pledge form, demonstrating your commitment to achieving certification within one year or less.

3. Conduct a Self-Assessment: After studying the program guidebook, conduct a self-assessment of your facility. Utilize the provided checklist to evaluate your marina's compliance with program criteria. Alternatively, if you require technical guidance, contact the program coordinator for assistance in performing a comprehensive evaluation of your marina facilities.

4. Checklist Review: The checklist encompasses various categories, including moorage rules, boater education, ADV (Abandoned and Derelict Vessel) management, solid waste and stormwater management, sewage and common waste management, fueling practices, uplands and building maintenance, and emergency planning. Some checklist items may be obligatory by law, others by the program, and some optional for implementation.

5. Confirmation Visit: Upon verifying that your facility meets the necessary requirements, schedule a confirmation site visit. This visit involves the marina manager and the program coordinator. To achieve certification, a minimum passing score of 85% is required, though most certified facilities surpass this threshold.

6. Certification Attainment: Upon successfully meeting the program's standards, you will be awarded your certification along with other associated rewards (refer to incentives below).

7. Certification Maintenance: To ensure ongoing compliance with program standards, the program coordinator will schedule an on-site visit every three years.

A free spill kit is included to certified marinas with various supply items, including a "no-spill jug," fuel nozzle, custom spill pads, or bilge socks at no cost.

Join the Oregon Clean Marina Program today and contribute to the protection of our valuable marine environments.