August 2018 Newsletter     Like us on Facebook  Follow us on Twitter 
Garbage: Don't Throw it, Stow it
You've seen the news coverage: plastic waste (including single-use water bottles and drinking straws) is negatively impacting U.S. waterways and marine life. And while the majority of the garbage in our oceans is generated on land, boaters need to be  informed --- and careful about the items they toss overboard.

What can you throw overboard while using lakes, rivers, bays or sounds? Federal laws are clear. When you are:
  • Zero to three miles from shore, nothing can be disposed of in the water
  • Three to twelve miles from shore, food fine enough to pass through a mesh screen can be discarded in the water
  • Over 12 miles from shore, all food items can be tossed overboard
It is illegal to discard any plastic, paper, glass, packaging, rope, etc. into the water. Local and federal fines and penalties can be assessed if the law is violated.

While boating, do your part to keep our waters free from trash and possible contaminants by practicing prevention.
  • Use substantial trash and recycling containers with lids.
  • Stow or tie down all gear so nothing blows overboard.
  • Save and re-use plastic bags.
  • Bring all trash from the boat to shore.
Read more from BoatU.S. Foundation here.
Red Tide Update 
Florida Governor Rick Scott has declared a state of emergency for seven southwest Florida counties suffering the effects of the persistent algal bloom,  Karenia brevis , commonly referred to as "red tide." The harmful bloom, which currently covers 145 miles of coastline, is killing fish and other marine animals and causing respiratory problems for residents. 

The red tide, along with the odor from washed-up fish has impacted boating and fishing in the area and has chased tourists away. Although red tide is not uncommon, this year's occurrence started earlier and is covering more territory than usual.

NOAA suggests checking the status of the bloom and its severity as things change from week to week. 


Safety at Sea

Routine boat maintenance can help you identify concerns before they become problematic.  Discover Boating suggests three simple activities to keep your vessel in shipshape: 
  1. Wash your boat regularly
  2. Change the oil as needed 
  3. Check the propeller often

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