Sustainable Boating Practices
There are a lot of reasons that people enjoy boating, but for many, the opportunity to get out and experience nature is a major draw. While boating can have a negative impact on the environment, there are many ways that you can minimize this impact and help preserve the waterways for future generations to enjoy. That is why the experts and Tommy’s boats have put together this list of sustainable boating practices.
Collect Trash & Recycling
Whenever you throw things overboard, it takes time for the environment to break them down. Even something organic like an orange peel can stick around for up to two years! In the case of certain manmade materials, decomposition can take much longer. This is why there are large patches of plastic swirling in our oceans. When it comes to trash, pack it in and pack it out. Have recycling containers available onboard and encourage your guests to use them. Secure your trash in tight-lidded bins while you’re on the water so that windy conditions do not dump anything into the water. When you get back on land, dispose of your trash, compost, and recycling properly. Anything that doesn’t belong in the water is potentially harmful, so you shouldn’t leave it behind.
Use Fewer Chemicals
While there are many chemicals that can make maintaining and cleaning your vessel far easier, you should do what you can to minimize how much you use them. For example, anti-fouling paint is sometimes used to prevent the growth of organisms on boats, but it often contains dangerous levels of mercury, copper, arsenic, and other hazardous agents. When these dangerous elements leech into the water around you, it can be catastrophic for any people or animals swimming nearby. Find greener alternatives or forgo using these products altogether.
Other chemicals to avoid include ammonia, phosphates, and chlorine. Instead use gentler, more eco-friendly cleaning substances like vinegar, baking soda, and borax. Keep any scrapings or sandings from your boat contained and dispose of them properly. Another good tip is to thoroughly rinse your boat with clean water after every trip, as this can reduce the need to use cleaning chemicals in the first place. You should also regularly clean your boat to reduce the build-up of algae, barnacles, and other aquatic life.
Keep Solvents & Fuel Contained
It is important that you keep your boat’s engine and battery well-maintained. Not only will this help you get better performance and a longer operational lifespan, but it will also ensure that you are not unwittingly leaking oil, fuel, battery acid, coolant, or other fluids into the water. It is illegal to allow oil to run into the water, so check your bilge before you pump it and install a bilge sock to catch fluids. If your boat does spill oil or fuel into the water, have an absorbent pad on hand to soak up as much of it as you can, and then get your boat repaired as soon as possible.
Be Vigilant Around Wildlife
Watch out for birds, fish, and other animals that make their homes in lakes and rivers. Only hunt and fish in approved waters so that you can be sure that no endangered animals will be harmed. Watch out for creatures that might swim near your engine or propellers and give them a wide berth.
We here at Tommy’s boats want future generations to be able to enjoy the same natural resources that we enjoy today. For more information or to view our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit us online or in person. We maintain 16 locations throughout the United States, including four in California and three in Michigan. We also offer services like maintenance, rentals, financing, and storage, so stop by for all your boating needs!