North Cowichan’s Maple Bay Marina is once again being recognized by a respected BC environmental organization for its ongoing efforts to maintain a clean marine environment.
The Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA) is a not-for-profit conservation group working to protect and restore the marine environment and promote the sustainability of Georgia Strait and its adjoining waters and communities. Maple Bay Marina received its re-certification under the GSA’s Clean Marine BC Program during the marina’s 19th annual Wooden Boat Festival in May.
The Clean Marine award distinguishes Maple Bay Marina as an industry-leading marina that meets comprehensive environmental best practices. Clean Marine BC is a voluntary environmental recognition program for marinas, harbour authorities and yacht clubs that was launched by GSA in 2007. Maple Bay Marina was originally certified in 2010 and given a 4 out of 5 anchor rating. Upon re-certification, they have been awarded the top 5-anchor rating.
Specific measures of the Clean Marine BC program include eliminating the release of contaminants into marine waters and the atmosphere, adopting waste reduction, reuse and recycling strategies and promoting sound environmental practices to all moorage members and contractors. In keeping with the program, the marina has added a brand new pump-out station, undertaken work in vessel maintenance areas to prevent run-off of pollutants, continued an environmentally sustainable dock replacement program, and made an ongoing commitment to sustainable environmental and recycling practices.
In 2015, Ladysmith Maritime Society Marina (LMSM) was also certified under Georgia Strait Alliance’s Clean Marine BC program. The society was recognized for their award winning campaign to increase the population of the Western Purple Martin and for their successful efforts to campaign against derelict and abandoned vessels in Ladysmith Harbour.
