The marine industry in Martin County is among the top ten in the state. It is composed of manufacturing, wholesale and retail trade, dockage, and marine services. The boating and recreational component of this industry are significant. Unfortunately, as the recent example disease in bait fish demonstrated, Martin County should remain sensitive to how the activities of others can adversely affect our marine resources and, thus potentially impact the local economy. Fortunately Martin County has effectively used the growth management process to protect and preserve these significant natural and historical resources.
Growth management can also help strengthen and diversify the County's economy.
While over the last 15 years the construction industry has been the largest component of Martin County's economic base, consistent with statewide trends, the roles that construction and manufacturing play are declining. Services, agricultural services and trade comprise the bulk of the final 60 percent of Martin County's economy. 22 Health care dominates the services industry in Martin County. Eating and drinking establishments lead intrade. It is important that Martin County not rely entirely on the growth industry to fuel its economic engine into the 21st century.