A Su s t a inable State o f Mind

SAFE AND RESPONSIBLE BOATING includes stewardship — doing your part to do the simple things that keep Lake Erie and inland waterways clean. “As a boater, you are entering the natural environment, and there are positive and negative impacts,” says Sarah Orlando, program manager for Ohio Clean Marinas, a partnership with ODNR and Ohio Sea Grant.

The mission is three-fold: to drive awareness of rules; to encourage marinas to follow best practices and earn the Clean Marinas certification; and to provide easy clean ways for any boater to participate.

Responsible recreation is what it’s all about.

“There are many reasons to celebrate Lake Erie for the incredible resource it is, and to find balance with getting out on the water, engaging in recreation and doing it in a responsible way,” Orlando relates.

Whether you paddle a kayak, sail a rig or run a powerboat, here are some ways to leave less “wake” as you enjoy the water. — KH

CLEAN, DRAIN, DRY.

Paddlecraft that is transported from one body of the water to the next can introduce “hitchhikers” like zebra mussels and invasive plants, even fish larvae. “Our simple motto is clean, drain, dry,” Orlando says. “Clean off your vessel, drain all water by flipping it, and use a towel or sham. Ideally, let it air dry for several days before going to a new body of water.”

DON'T OVERFUEL.

Help keep Ohio’s waters clean by remembering not to top off the tank when you’re fueling up. Also, don’t forget to bring along a rag so you can catch any drips that might land in water when removing the fuel nozzle. “You might say a little bit won’t hurt, but with over 600,000 boaters in Ohio, that adds up,” Orlando says.

CHOOSE TO REUSE.

Single-use plastics add up to a lot of extra waste during a boating season. Rather than a 24-pack of bottled water, bring along jugs and ask guests to participate by toting along their own reusable drinking container. “Think of how much plastic you can divert from landfills,” Orlando points out.

MANAGE FLY-AWAYS.

When you’re underway, wind can blow debris off your boat and into the water. “Take a few seconds before you get on your way to tie down anything that might go overboard,” Orlando advises. Paddlers can bring a dry bag for trash. Sailors and powerboaters with room for a trash can or bucket can secure it with a tie or even a rock in the bottom.

WORK SMART.

When conducting maintenance, the best case scenario is an indoor environment with proper anti-pollution prevention practices in place. “At the very least, put down a tarp and go as far away from the water as possible to do your work,” Orlando says. “Clean up your trash and pick up all debris so when it rains, that material isn’t on the ground to be washed into the water.”