Green Boating

When we talk of protecting the environment, it generally focuses on home, business an automotive use, but boating also has an impact on the environment, and boaters have the opportunity and the responsibility to keep their waterways as pristine as possible.

Fortunately, it’s not as painful as it sounds. In fact, “going green” can make it more pleasant, more affordable and more fun. Here’s how:

Keep Your “Head”. Whether you’ve installed a head, or just a porta- potty, don’t shortcut the pump-out process. No head? Liners and seats are available to turn a five-gallon pail into a “throne.” It’s not fancy but it is functional and keeps you lake an ocean clean and friendly.

Clean Cleanly. Use environmentally friendly cleaners (no chemicals) whenever possible: white vinegar to kill mold, for example. Tougher tasks may need stronger materials, but don’t use the water you sail on as your dumping ground.

Maintain Your Engine. Get regular tune-ups, fix leaks and clean up as you would your automobile. That minimizes fuel, prevents leaks and it saves you money as well.

Replace Your Engine. Two-stroke engines often let some oil and gas mixture escape between firings. “Direct-injection” two-strokes or four-stroke engines are better.

Watch Your Wake. Besides irritating others boaters, it can damage other boats; and waves can erode fragile shorelines.

Stow It, Don’t Throw It. The tendency to toss used, unnecessary material overboard is a bad as throwing trash out your car window when driving.

Catch and release? Fishing is great fun, but do you really need a mess of fish in you fridge? Remember, if you’re not really going eat all that fish, take a snapshot and toss them back.

Keeping you boat protected saves money and extra maintenance later. CMC Canvas LLC provides quality canvas coverings to keep your boat seaworthy for years.