The Port of Edmonds has received the Leadership Level of the Clean Boatyard Certification, which is the highest level of certification possible under the New Clean Boating Foundation’s voluntary certification program. The award was announced at the April 30 Port Commission meeting.

The Clean Boatyard Program is designed to reduce the impact that boatyards have on the environment by encouraging them to fully comply with the Washington State Department of Ecology’s boatyard general permit. The program is also designed to increase recognition for those boatyards that meet or exceed the Boatyard permit requirements.

According to Ben Lee, Program Manager of Clean Boating Foundation, “the Port of Edmonds has demonstrated a true commitment to environmental responsibility and stewardship of Puget Sound.” So far, the Port of Edmonds is one of six boatyards in Washington state that have become certified, and Clean Boating Foundation staff will continue to visit boatyards throughout the State who are interested in pursuing certification.

“Part of our mission at the Port of Edmonds is to be a responsible environmental steward” said Marla Kempf, Deputy Director for the Port of Edmonds. “The Port continually seeks opportunities in a leadership position to promote and enhance environmental programs. Our boatyard is a good example of how the Port is employing Best Management Practices that accomplish better environmental outcomes.”

The Port of Edmonds is the first boatyard in Washington state to test the effectiveness of oyster shells in filtering metals such as copper and zinc from storm water runoff. In some applications, oyster shells have demonstrated the ability to improve water quality and reduce metals concentrations.

To learn more, visit the Port’s Boatyard page or the Clean Boating Foundation’s website, which has useful information about the latest clean boating products and practices.