The Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) invites the public to become volunteers and help keep California’s rivers, lakes and ocean clean by becoming Dockwalkers. These individuals help raise awareness about clean boating practices through the distribution of boater kits filled with educational information and pollution prevention tools. Dockwalkers also interact one-on-one with recreational boaters at marinas, boat launch ramps and boating events. Participation in the program, including the training sessions, qualifies as community service.
California has one of the highest levels of recreational boating activity in the nation. With approximately four million boaters, even a small amount of pollution per vessel can cause serious harm to waterways, marine fish and wildlife. Since 2000, more than a thousand Dockwalkers have taught 10,000 boaters about oil, fuel, sewage, trash and marine debris prevention.
“Dockwalkers make it easy for boaters to learn how to implement clean boating practices,” said Vivian Matuk, Boating Clean and Green Program Manager. “We invite outdoor enthusiasts to make a difference for our waterways by becoming a Dockwalker.”
The free trainings to become a Dockwalker are set to begin next month (March) and run through May 2019 across the state. Pre-registration is required.
Training classes will be held in the following cities:
-
Los Altos (March 12)
-
Petaluma (March 16)
-
Oakland (April 10)
-
San Rafael (April 20)
-
San Jose (May 1)
-
San Diego (April 27)
-
Marina Del Rey (May 4)
-
Newport Beach (March 30)
-
San Pedro (May 11)
-
Stockton (May 9)
-
Vacaville (May 13)
Marinas and yacht clubs are also encouraged to participate in the Dockwalker Program. Participating facilities receive educational materials and tools to operate a clean boating facility and minimize water quality impacts. This program provides marinas with points towards the Clean Marina designation, and participation in the Dockwalker Program counts towards the nomination of the Club of the Year under the community service category. In addition, yacht clubs and marinas are essential in spreading awareness directly to boaters.
Safety organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons also benefit from the Dockwalker Program as it supports their current efforts, and enhances and broadens their boating safety mission.
The DBW and California Coastal Commission’s Boating Clean and Green Program manage the Dockwalker Program. Partnerships with the Bay Foundation (DBW Clean Vessel Act Program), the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadrons, Save Our Shores, Lake Berryessa Partnership and many more organizations are integral to this program’s success.
For more information on the program including testimonials and videos, please visit www.BoatingCleanandGreen.com and select “Dockwalker Program”.
#California #CaliforniaStateParks #Environment
