Nanticoke River Marine Park Certified as Delaware Clean Marina First Delaware Marina on Nanticoke River to Receive Environmental Stewardship Recognition

The Nanticoke River Marine Park in Blades was certified as a Delaware Clean Marina – a new partner in the efforts to protect and preserve the Nanticoke River. DNREC Deputy Secretary David S. Small presented the Clean Marina flag and certificate signed by Governor Ruth Ann Minner to Carlyle Windley, Nanticoke River Marine Park manager and president of the Blades Economic Development Corporation.

"The Nanticoke is an exceptional river, supporting some of the most biologically diverse habitats in the region,” said Small. “By implementing pollution prevention practices, the Nanticoke River Marine Park protects the natural heritage of this beautiful river and helps ensure its healthy and sustainable future.”

Nanticoke River Marine Park is the eleventh marina in the state – the first marina on the Nanticoke River in Delaware – to be certified a Clean Marina. To meet the requirements, the marina voluntarily implemented environmentally-sound operating and maintenance procedures that include fueling, pumpout and maintenance services. With the assistance of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and Power Squadron, the marina will provide boater education programs and free safety inspections to vessel owners.

Director of DNREC’s Division of Water Resources, Kathy Bunting-Howarth, who was unable to attend the certification remarked. “The Nanticoke River Marine Park joins with us and our many conservation partners to help protect the water quality of the river. They did so, not because they had to, but because they believe environmental stewardship and business practices go hand-in-hand.”

Certified clean marinas can display the Clean Marina certificate and flag and use the logo on advertising and promotional materials. In addition to publicity, marinas receive technical assistance and possible grant opportunities through the program.

The Delaware Clean Marina program is a cooperative effort between the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control and the University of Delaware’s Sea Grant Marine Service Advisory. For more information, visit www.dnrec.delaware.gov/ or contact Crystal Nagyiski, pollution prevention manager at 739-9909 or crystal.nagyiski@state.de.us