The boating lifestyle is a great way to spend time with family and friends, enjoying the water. And as boaters, it is our shared responsibility to help keep the waters and resources that we use healthy for generations to come. We’re happy to do it and we know you are too! See below for a list of resources, tips and ideas about how to prevent spills, clean your boat with eco-friendly soaps, recycle proper materials and more.

Looking for tips on how you can make a difference by boating green? We’ve got the resources you need to have a great day on the water AND do your part to protect our environment.

Report It!

Always use care when filling fuel or oil tanks to avoid spilling or leaking fuel into the water. But, accidents happen: And when they do, there is an important protocol to follow in case of fuel or oil spills and leaks.Did you witness a spill that caused a sheen or “sludge” to appear? Report it!

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established requirements to report spills. If you cause a spill or see another vessel leaking pollutants, call the National Response Center (NRC.) The NRC is the federal government’s national communications center, which is staffed 24 hours a day by U.S. Coast Guard officers and marine science technicians.

Anyone witnessing an oil spill, chemical release or maritime security incident should call the National Reporting Center hotline at 1-800-424-8802.

Help Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Invasive Species

Our nation’s aquatic habitats are important, and can be put into jeopardy by invasive species. Do your part to help STOP the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS) and protect the habitats native to our waterways. Learn more about how what AIS are, how to spot them and what you can do to prevent them here.

Find more information about AIS at www.aquaticintruders.com