Inspections and cleaning, often done at launch ramps, can prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species from one waterway to another. (credit: Minnesota DNR)
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ANNAPOLIS, Md., April 19, 2023 – After a long winter lay-up, boaters are beginning to return to water. With the 53rd annual Earth Day celebration just around the corner on Saturday, April 22, it’s time for boaters to think how they can prime themselves to be good waterway stewards all season long. The non-profit BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water breaks down the eight letters of E-A-R-T-H D-A-Y to help boat owners put a plan into action:

E        Empty your holding tank at a pumpout station or a designated place ashore.
A        Always attend your gas nozzle when fueling your boat and resist topping off.
R        Recycle fishing line and plastic baits when possible, dispose of properly.
T        Take the time for clean, drain, dry to stop the spread of invasive species.
H        Have a trash receptacle or a way to collect refuse aboard so nothing goes in the water.

D        Dispose of used oils, gas and chemicals properly; ask for help if needed.
A        Adopt a beach or a special place on your waterway to clean up periodically.
Y        You make all the difference when it comes to smart, safe and clean boating!

Want to learn more about clean boating? The BoatUS Foundation offers Clean Boating, a free online course, at BoatUS.org/Clean-Course.

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Get ready for Earth Day 2023! As boating season starts up, let's make sure we're being good waterway stewards. The @BoatUSFoundation has broken down the 8 letters of E-A-R-T-H D-A-Y to help boat owners put a plan into action. https://bit.ly/41jdURn

About the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water:

The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water is a national leader promoting safe, clean and responsible boating. Funded primarily by donations from the more than 800,000 members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS), the nonprofit provides innovative educational outreach directly to boaters and anglers with the aim of reducing accidents and fatalities, increasing stewardship of America's waterways and keeping boating safe for all. A range of safe and clean boating courses – including the nation's largest free online boating safety course – can be found at BoatUS.org/Courses.