This fall, River Forest Yachting Centers in Moore Haven, Florida, snagged a significant win: the Clean and Resilient Marina designation. This award, fast becoming the gold standard for marinas across Florida, places River Forest among an elite group—only 30 marinas out of nearly 2,800 across the state have achieved it as of January. That number keeps climbing as more marinas recognize the value of resilient and eco-friendly practices.
The Clean and Resilient Marina initiative, crafted by Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection and the Clean Boating Partnership, has put eco-consciousness front and center for marinas across the state. After Hurricane Ian devastated the area, leaving 7,000 boats in ruins in 2022, the program’s timing couldn’t be better. Environmental resilience is now more than a best practice; it’s survival.
“We’ve made eco-friendly choices from day one,” says Tad Norris, River Forest’s general manager. “Our buildings were built with top-tier pollution control systems right from the start, and we keep those systems updated. This designation is just one step in our work to protect the unique marine environment we depend on.”
River Forest, a top-tier yacht storage hub located 30 miles east of Fort Myers, has made a name for itself by balancing a full suite of services with an uncompromising commitment to environmental responsibility. And this designation only highlights what they’ve already been doing.
Working Together for the Gulf
The Clean and Resilient Marina Initiative started in 2013 as part of the Gulf of Mexico Alliance, uniting Florida, Texas, and neighboring Gulf states. This is more than a certification; it’s a collaborative push to boost both ecological and economic health along the Gulf Coast. With hurricanes increasing in intensity, the initiative focuses on practical strategies to help marinas brace themselves for natural disasters. The goal? To give marina operators tools for preventing damage before, during, and after storms.
Florida’s rough hurricane seasons in 2004 and 2005 proved how critical preparedness can be. When a storm hits, just a few unsecured boats or equipment can cause severe damage. The Clean and Resilient Marina program encourages marina operators to make hurricane prep part of their routine. For River Forest, the recent certification reflects years of work to safeguard the Gulf’s marine life while securing the boats and yachts in their care.
River Forest’s Commitment Includes:
- Advanced Pollution Control: Top-of-the-line waste management and spill prevention systems
- Climate Resilience: A hurricane-ready facility with an active Hurricane Response Team and detailed storm-proofing measures
- Disaster Prevention: Consistent practices to ensure safety from hazards like fires and other emergencies
- Community Engagement: Programs designed to educate and inspire boaters toward sustainable choices
“The certification means a lot to us because it’s about protecting the water for generations to come,” says Norris. “We’re also protecting the boats entrusted to us as though they were our own.”
During Hurricane Ian, River Forest’s rigorous safety measures proved effective. While boats around the state suffered extensive damage, River Forest saw just a minor 3-inch water level increase, and its buildings stayed secure. Their Hurricane Club—where boats are hauled out and secured before a storm—saved 40 yachts from potential damage.
The Future of Clean Marinas
So why should other marinas follow suit? According to Norris, eco-friendly practices should be part of daily operations, ensuring that every marina works toward a shared goal.
“Caring for the environment is just the right thing to do,” says Norris. “When we look at future generations—our kids, grandkids, and beyond—we want them to have a marine environment as rich and beautiful as the one we enjoy today. Every action counts.”
With Florida in the thick of a hurricane season, the stakes for marinas are higher than ever. Hurricanes like Helene and Milton have wreaked havoc, making resilient and environmentally sound practices essential. The Clean and Resilient Marina designation isn’t just a badge; it’s a benchmark pushing businesses to step up and protect both their clients’ investments and the environment.
“If every marina and yacht owner commits to sustainable practices, we can keep this boating paradise intact,” Norris concludes. “Florida’s waterways are special, and we’re here to preserve that beauty as long as possible.”
