Shamrock Marine Named 116th Maryland Clean Marina

posted in: Environmental Issues | 0

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Clean Marina Program has certified Shamrock Marine at Pinehurst Landing Marina as the state’s 116th Clean Marina. Together with 25 smaller facilities designated as Clean Marina Partners, Maryland now boasts 141 certified facilities.

Pinehurst Landing Marina houses Shamrock Marine, which provides a full range of yacht repairs including engine and hull repairs. The marina also rents about 20 slips on Bodkin Creek, just north of Gibson Island. Owners Michael and Joanne Hohn purchased the property in 2005 and have cleaned up years of debris and improved overall organization of the business.

As part of the Clean Marina certification, the Hohns created up-to-date emergency response plans, organized the liquid waste from engine repairs (e.g., oil, gas, antifreeze) and instituted proper handling and recycling of these fluids. Just as importantly, they have also begun education and outreach to their customers so they can participate in keeping the marina and the waters clean.

“We feel like getting certified was the natural outcome of us cleaning up the property and improving things,” said Michael Hohn. “It’s nice to get recognized for doing the right thing.”

The Clean Marina Program is a voluntary program for marine facilities that want to reduce their impact on Maryland’s waterways by implementing “best management practices” outlined in the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook. Certification also includes passing a site inspection by DNR staff for the initial certification, and again every three years to maintain certification. Approximately 23 percent of marinas in the state are now certified Clean Marinas.

source: MD DNR

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