BOCA RATON – The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), together with the Clean Boating Partnership, today recognized Boca Raton Resort and Marina as the 207th member of the Florida Clean Marina program. The program now boasts more than 200 Clean Marinas, 31 Clean Boatyards and 10 Clean Marine Retailers statewide.

"Florida's Clean Marinas are the key to protecting the State's waterways," said Jack Long, Director of DEP's Southeast District. "DEP is pleased to welcome the Boca Raton Resort and Marina to the Clean Marina family.  The staff at this dedicated facility truly recognizes the value in protecting our natural resources."

The Florida Clean Marina program is a voluntary designation program with a proactive approach to environmental stewardship. To become designated as a Clean Marina, facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to protect Florida's waterways. These measures address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitat, waste management, stormwater control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness.

"We are honored to be awarded this designation," said Carole Boucard, Public Relations Director for the Boca Raton Resort and Marina. "The recognition demonstrates our commitment to protecting our environment, and ensuring exceptional experiences for our guests."

The Clean Boating Partnership is a consortium of industry leaders who contribute time and input to the Clean Marina, Clean Boatyard, Clean Marine Retailer and Clean Boater programs which DEP administers to protect Florida's waterways. The partnership includes DEP, Marine Industries Association of Florida, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, University of Florida Sea Grant Program, United States Coast Guard and Coast Guard Auxiliary.

"The Clean Boating Partnership applauds the Boca Raton Resort and Marina for its commitment to Florida's environment," said the Partnership's Chair Mark Leslie. "The dedication and hard work in becoming a Clean Marina is an accomplishment this facility can be proud of and we welcome it to our growing Clean Marina family.

With more than one million registered motorized vessels in Florida, environmental education within marine industries is the first step toward safeguarding the state's natural resources. By providing "green" education and alternatives the Florida Clean Marina program helps ensure a sustainable future for the environment and a billion dollar marine industry. For more information about the Florida Clean Marina program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina.

DEP's Office of Sustainable Initiatives is comprised of three voluntary, non-regulatory programs that assist Florida industry and citizens in protecting the environment. The Florida Clean Marina program, the Clean Vessel Act program, and the Florida Green Lodging program offer a variety of services including on-site assessments, consultations, speakers and workshops, all at no cost to citizens or organizations. The goal of the Sustainable Initiatives programs is to meet the needs of the present population without compromising resources for future generations. To learn more about DEP's Sustainable Initiatives, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/green.