The RI Coastal Resources Management Council developed and adopted the state’s Clean Marina Program in 2007. The voluntary program was designed to protect the state’s coastal waters and benefit the marina industry in Rhode Island, and rewards marinas that go beyond regulatory requirements by applying innovative pollution prevention best management practices (BMPs) to their day-to-day operations.

In 2020, the CRMC, with the collaboration and cooperation of the RI Marine Trades Association (RIMTA), RI Department of Environmental Management, Rhode Island Sea Grant, and the University of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Center, overhauled the Clean Marina Program. The partners made the program more industry-friendly and forward-facing, appointing RIMTA as the point of contact for the industry and CRMC as the certification agent. The groups also revised the cumbersome certification process, reducing the amount of paperwork required to a checklist.

Industry response was overwhelmingly positive; in the first nine months of 2021, three new Clean Marinas were certified— Watch Hill Boat Yard, Newport Yacht Club, and SafeHarbor Wickford Cove. Five are slated for Clean Marina status in 2022. Check this page for updates, marinas certified, and other information.