Each also found clear business value from their environmental improvements. They were selected as national examples because they demonstrated innovation, determination and and almost missionary zeal for clean operations. Now more and more operators have learned that clean marinas attract customers and bring economic value to the business. Clearly the marina industry has begun to embrace the need to promote clean boating, clean facilities and clean operations. Descriptions were given of how each of the 25 marinas benefited from making environmental improvements in their operations.
Every marina studied has significant, measured economic benefits from being a clean marina.
All have active solid waste management and public education programs. All, but one, have pumpout stations and are promoting their use. Most have issued marina no-discharge regulations. Those illustrate the very interesting potential for widespread habitat enhancement and fish farming in marinas. And they demonstrate that marina basins can indeed be healthy and productive ecosystems.