Many boaters in Ontario have heard of or may be staying at a marina that has the designation “Clean Marine”.
You may have heard recently about the Blue Flag Program.
But, there is something you Should Not Do at a “Clean Marine” or a “Blue Flag” Marina.
Boating Ontario, along with over twenty marine industry professionals from Ontario’s boater and angler associations formed the Clean Marine Partnership to develop a voluntary program of “Environmental Best Practices” for the marine industry that is recognized as the leader in North America.
Since 2001, Boating Ontario member marinas have been enrolling in the Clean Marine Program to ensure that their marinas are following these environmentally sound practices and protecting our waterways for all to enjoy.
You may have heard recently about the Blue Flag Program, which is a voluntary eco-label awarded to more than 4000 beaches and marinas in 49 countries across Europe, South Africa, Morocco, Tunisia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada and the Caribbean.
The Blue Flag works towards sustainable development of beaches and marinas through strict criteria dealing with Water Quality, Environmental Education and Information, Environmental Management, and Safety and Other Services.
Blue Flags are flying at 26 beaches and six marinas in Canada. BUT there is something you should NOT DO at a “Blue Flag” Marina.
Blue Flag Standards for Water Quality
The Blue Flag program requires that beaches achieve excellent bathing water quality. Blue Flag beaches and marinas undergo regular water quality sampling measured against national standards and legislation. BUT, even though the water quality is better, you should NEVER SWIM in a marina or harbor because of the great possibility of Electric Shock Drowning.
For more information:
Clean Marine Program
