The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland will hold a forum July 8 in Annapolis to offer an opportunity to learn more about the new General Discharge Permit for Boat and Vessel Maintenance. The forum is intended for operators of facilities that perform or allow boat repair.
MDE is reviewing appropriate changes to the General Permit for Discharges for Marinas. Changes to the permit address and update requirements related to bottom paints and wash water. Maryland’s waters must be protected from toxicity that could compromise aquatic life and public health now and in the future.
DNR’s Clean Marina Program and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland are assisting in the process by providing technical expertise and experience, and will provide ongoing compliance assistance.
Attendees will learn about the active ingredients in bottom paints from several paint representatives as well as how marina discharges are handled in other states. This forum is not a “public hearing” as no draft determination of the permit has been proposed for public comment. Rather, the forum is a chance to hear why changes are being discussed and to get industry suggestions to best meet new water quality standards.
The forum will run from 1:00 to 4:00p.m. July 8 in the meeting hall of the Calvary Methodist Church on at 301 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis. There is no cost and operators of businesses that conduct—or allow—boat repair work on site are strongly encouraged to attend.
To register contact the Marine Trades Association of Maryland at susan@mtam.org or by calling 410-269-0741.
For more information on Maryland’s Clean Marina Program visit:
www.dnr.maryland.gov/boating/cleanmarina
source: MD DNR
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