When we talk about boating safety, life jackets, fire extinguishers, and being an alert operator often come to mind. But have you ever considered the impact boating has on the environment? Perhaps we should. After all, the purpose of safety is to protect what matters – whether that’s human life, property, or the environment. Let’s explore some habits we can develop to ensure our boating practices are environmentally safe.

Avoid oil and fuel spills

Did you know that just a single drop of oil can contaminate over six gallons of water? You don’t need a major oil tanker spill to cause environmental harm. Even a few boats leaking fuel or oil at a marina can create serious problems. As boaters, it’s essential to take steps to prevent our vessels from contributing to this kind of contamination.

If your boat has an enclosed engine compartment, oil or fuel leaks can collect in the bilge. When your bilge pump activates, this mixture is often discharged into the water, causing pollution. It’s crucial to address any mechanical issues promptly. If there is oil buildup in your bilge, make sure to clean it properly before it can be released into the water.

Prevent the spread of invasive species

In the late 1980s, zebra mussels were unintentionally introduced to the Great Lakes, likely through ballast water from European cargo ships. Since then, they’ve caused immense damage to the ecosystems in the Great Lakes and western U.S. rivers. They’ve disrupted the lifecycle of native species and have cost power companies millions to prevent them from clogging water intake systems.

But you don’t need to be a large ship to introduce invasive species. Recreational boaters who trailer their boats from one body of water to another can also spread invasive species. Many of these species are native to other parts of the country but still pose a risk. To help prevent this, follow these steps before launching your boat into a new body of water:

  • While the boat is still on the trailer, thoroughly clean the vessel.
  • Drain all compartments, bilges, and anywhere water may have collected.
  • Allow everything to dry completely before launching in a different location.

Be mindful of protected areas and species

On Lake Lanier, we often encounter no-wake zones designed to protect people, property, or to help with navigation in specific areas. On the coast, similar no-wake zones are frequently set up to protect wildlife. One of the most notable species protected by these zones is the manatee. While manatees aren’t the only species at risk, they’ve become symbolic of wildlife protection efforts. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon to see manatees with scars from boat propellers.

Observing no-wake zones and other wildlife protection signs is essential for reducing harm to these creatures. Additionally, boaters should take care not to damage sensitive ecosystems like seagrass beds and coral reefs. These habitats are critical for aquatic life, and activities like anchoring or navigating carelessly can cause irreversible damage.

One of the best parts of boating is enjoying the natural beauty of the water.

By practicing a few simple habits, we can help ensure that this beauty remains for future generations.