Department of Natural Resources Offering Free Environmental Seminars for Marina Operators in January

Maryland Department of Natural Resources photo

Marina, boatyard, and yacht club operators are invited to attend a free seminar in January 2026 to learn about best practices to protect our waters and how to earn a Maryland Clean Marina designation. 

Seminars will also present results from the department’s 2025 Maryland Marina Survey, resiliency tools for marina, and offer free education and training materials for marinas and boatyards.

Marina managers can learn more about the Clean Marina Initiative at any of these upcoming workshops:

January 21: Holiday Inn Express, 2715 Ocean Gateway, Cambridge

January 27: Marshy Point Nature Center, 7130 Marshy Point Road, Middle River

January  29: “Pip” Moyer Recreation Center, 273 Hilltop Lane, Annapolis

All seminars will run from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with morning refreshments provided. 

The Maryland Clean Marina Initiative recognizes and promotes environmentally responsible boating facilities. The program is coordinated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in partnership with the Marine Trades Association of Maryland. Certified Clean Marinas meet all environmental regulatory requirements and adopt additional best practices from the Maryland Clean Marina Guidebook, which DNR confirms through a site visit every three years.

There are currently 144 certified Maryland Clean Marinas and Partners, and several other states have replicated Maryland’s program since DNR established it in 1998.

“This program balances the realities of marina management with environmental protection,” said DNR Clean Marina Coordinator Donna Morrow. “Certified Clean Marinas will enjoy cleaner water, cost savings, more responsible customers, and positive publicity.”

There is no cost to attend the seminars but advanced registration is requested as space is limited. Registration as well as program information and a list of current Maryland Clean Marinas is available on the program website. Contact [email protected] with questions.