Why get certified as an Alaska Clean Harbor?
Alaska Clean Harbor certification signifies a harbor’s commitment to both their community and the State of Alaska to actively participate in the stewardship of our marine resources and infrastructure for future generations. We encourage harbormasters and community leaders to consider the following reasons for why becoming a certified Alaska Clean Harbor and investing in environmental stewardship is worthwhile:
It’s good for business.
Harbor users want clean facilities. In Alaska, our harbors are often the first impression visitors receive of our communities. Whether you are a tourist, live in a coastal community, or work seasonally on the water, people notice the condition a harbor is in . Studies show that cleanliness is one of the top factors affecting boaters’ preference to use a marina (1,2, 3). Cleaner waters also lead to increased recreation and touristic value (1, 2). By maintaining amenities and services, ensuring cleanliness, and having well trained and helpful staff, harbors are investing in the future of their communities and are able to attract more business.
People value clean water.
US citizens, regardless of political affiliation, overwhelmingly (86%) support government action to reduce water pollution (1). Harbors inherently have the potential to create significant impacts on marine water quality by concentrating boat activity in sheltered areas. Harbors can mitigate those impacts by providing used oil and antifreeze collection, free sewage pump outs, managing stormwater runoff, and ensuring boaters follow harbor environmental policies. Getting certified provides both guidance and recognition for putting management practices in place which protect water quality.
Getting certified helps attract funding and offset costs.
A well-managed harbor which has become certified can strengthen their applications for competitive state and federal grants (such as Clean Vessel Act funding and the Boating Infrastructure Grant Program) by demonstrating their commitment to the marine environment and the communities who rely on them. Getting certified also translates into a reduction in perceived risk for insurance companies, resulting in lower premiums for liability and pollution policies. Implementing management practices such as segregating waste streams to collect recyclable items like aluminum cans, cardboard, and scrap metal or setting up a used oil burner can offset waste disposal costs. There is no downside to getting certified – your upfront efforts translate directly into future rewards.
Keeping a clean harbor is a positive reflection of your community.
Harbors are economic and cultural hubs that play a critical role in creating a favorable impression for your community. Studies show that visible pollution directly affects surrounding property values and economic potential (1, 2); this means that public perception of harbors is not limited to the facility itself. The effort shown by harbor staff to steward the environment and provide a clean and safe public space is an opportunity to build healthy community values around waste management and personal responsibility.
Proactive management is cheaper and easier than neglect.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Ask anyone who has cleaned up marine debris, and they will tell you that preventing trash from entering the ocean is easier than cleaning it up. Getting a soon-to-be-sunk derelict vessel out of the water is cheaper than salvaging it from the seafloor. Having a plan in place to deal with oil spills ahead of time is safer for responders and creates better outcomes. Getting certified builds capacity and preparedness at harbors, demonstrates regulatory compliance, and establishes a clear set of standards for boaters and staff.
