With four million boaters, California has one of the highest levels of recreational boating in the United States. This large volume of recreational activity in our waterways can come at a cost. Boat-based pollutants such as sewage, used oil, household hazardous waste, marine debris, aquatic invasive species, and emerging contaminants impair our waterways. To protect the water and wildlife, we work to eliminate sources of pollution.
To further protect wildlife and conserve our waterways, California established the nation’s first statewide Marine Protected Area (MPA) network. This network acts as a series of interconnected ocean parks where fishing and other activities are limited or prohibited. Since 1996, The Bay Foundation (TBF) has worked to engage boaters and fishermen to support pollution reduction. This local effort has expanded statewide in recent years and now includes outreach and education on the MPAs.
There are many free resources provided to boaters to support their personal efforts to keep our waters clean and full of life. Check out the resources below!