Georgia Strait Alliance Newsletter
GEORGIA STRAIT ALLIANCE
Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA) is proud to announce that North Cowichan’s Maple Bay Marina is set to receive its 4-anchor recertification under its Clean Marine BC Program. This award distinguishes Maple Bay Marina as an industry leading marina that meets rigid environmental best practices.
Maple Bay Marina will receive their Clean Marine BC flag on May 17th at 1:00 pm at a special ceremony during the Marina’s 19th Annual Maple Bay Wooden Boat Festival.
David Messier, General Manager of Maple Bay Marina, says, “We are proud to be awarded our second 4 - anchor rating by the Georgia Strait Alliance’s Clean Marine Program and to be in the fine company of other industry leading marinas in the spectacular Salish Sea that we all share.”
Clean Marine BC is a voluntary environmental recognition program for marinas, harbour authorities, yacht clubs, and boatyards in BC. Launched by GSA in 2007, the program helps marinas and boatyards identify where improvements are needed and the environmental standards they must meet to become certified under the Clean Marine program. An independent auditor determines an eco-rating for the facility between 1 and 5 anchors with 5 being the highest level of environmental best practices. GSA awards marinas that pass the audit a certificate of recognition and the right to fly the Clean Marine BC flag. The rating is valid for 3 years.
“It’s fantastic to see the eelgrass beds have returned right next to Maple Bay Marina”, says Christianne Wilhelmson, GSA’s Executive Director. “Maple Bay Marina and all our Clean Marine BC marinas are contributing to real improvement in the health of our local waters and the whole Strait of Georgia.”
Maple Bay Marina’s Wooden Boat Festival honours the long standing history of the wooden boat industry on the West Coast and Vancouver Island, and celebrates owners who share a passion for these heritage vessels. The event runs Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18. Admission is free. The public is encouraged to join the festivities and vote for their favourite boat. Visitors will enjoy live music and added attractions including a pool with model boat displays and demonstrations, live music and local arts & crafts for sale.
Georgia Strait Alliance
Formed in 1990, Georgia Strait Alliance is the only conservation group working to protect and restore the marine environment and promote the sustainability of Georgia Strait, its adjoining waters and communities, the place where 75% of British Columbians live, work and play.