By 1808Delaware
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is inviting marina owners, operators, and recreational boating professionals to the 9th Annual Ohio Marina Conference, taking place on Thursday, March 6 at the picturesque Sawmill Creek Resort in Huron. This year’s event is a milestone as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Ohio Clean Marinas Program, a partnership that has been pivotal in promoting sustainable practices and safeguarding Ohio’s waterways.
A Full Agenda for Industry Professionals
This year’s conference promises a robust lineup of speakers and sessions, focusing on critical environmental and operational topics:
- Marine Insurance: Learn how to navigate insurance complexities in the boating industry.
- Abandoned Vessel Management: Strategies to handle derelict vessels and reduce waterway hazards.
- Electrical Codes: Updates to ensure marina facilities meet safety standards.
- Electric Boating: Insights into emerging trends and the future of electric-powered vessels.
Participants will also have the opportunity to network with peers, share insights, and celebrate the accomplishments of the Ohio Clean Marinas Program over its two decades of success.
Registration and Event Details
- Cost: $65 (includes continental breakfast, lunch, and refreshments).
- Eligibility: Open to all Ohio marina owners, operators, staff, and other boating professionals.
- How to Register: Register here.
The Ohio Clean Marinas Program: A Legacy of Stewardship
Launched in 2004 with funding from NOAA, the Ohio Clean Marinas Program is a proactive initiative administered by ODNR’s Office of Coastal Management and the Ohio Sea Grant College Program. Its mission is simple yet powerful: promote environmental stewardship through best management practices that ensure clean water and fresh air.
The program supports marina operators by offering resources to protect the natural assets crucial to their operations. Since expanding statewide in 2015, the program has become a cornerstone of environmental advocacy within Ohio’s marina and boating communities.
For more information about the Ohio Clean Marinas Program, visit Ohio Clean Marinas.
Exploring Delaware County’s Marinas
Delaware County boasts some of the finest marinas in Ohio, offering diverse opportunities for recreation and relaxation:
Alum Creek Marina
Located on the expansive 3,387-acre Alum Creek Reservoir, this full-service marina provides:
- 240 boat slips (24-32 feet), with water and electric hookups.
- Boat rentals, fuel, fishing supplies, and a retail store.
- Access to nearby camping, swimming, and hiking trails at Alum Creek State Park.
Delaware State Park Marina
Nestled on the 1,300-acre Delaware Lake, this marina is perfect for family-friendly outings, featuring:
- Seasonal dock rentals and boat camping.
- Daily boat rentals, fuel services, and fishing supplies.
- Three boat launch ramps and additional amenities like hiking trails and a public beach.
O’Shaughnessy Reservoir
This serene spot in southern Delaware County offers:
- Public access points along OH-257.
- Boating, fishing, and birdwatching opportunities.
Why Attend the Ohio Marina Conference
The conference is more than an educational event—it’s a celebration of Ohio’s thriving marina industry and its commitment to sustainability. As the program marks its 20th year, attendees will reflect on past successes while looking forward to the innovations shaping the future of recreational boating.
