As a boater or marina owner, you appreciate all that our oceans and waterways have to offer, and you want to ensure that you - and your customers - can enjoy those waters again and again. Unfortunately, marine debris poses several threats to boaters and the oceans and waterways they enjoy. You can help reduce the amount of marine debris that enters the water and help keep boating enjoyable by following these guidelines:

Boaters

• Properly stow and secure all trash on your boat.
• Remember that it is illegal to dispose of any garbage in all U.S. waters and anywhere at sea.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Report illegal dumping to your local U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Sector Office. Use Channel 16 on your VHF marine radio or call (800) 424-8802 to locate the Sector Office near you. The Coast Guard's HOMEPORT website is an online portal for local and national USCG information.
• Support environmentally responsible marinas.
• Serve as an example to others and encourage them to help keep the oceans free of debris.

Marinas

• Participate in a Clean Marina program.
• Set up and clearly label recycling bins for your staff and customers.
• Call your local environmental or resource management office to find out what materials can be recycling in your area.
• Keep trash cans, dumpsters and recycling bins from overflowing by emptying them regularly. Make sure they are covered, secured and can't be opened by strong winds or animals.
• Report illegal dumping to your local USCG Sector Office. Call (800) 424-8802 to locate the Sector Office near you. The Coast Guard's HOMEPORT website is an online portal for local and national USCG information.