2012 News Releases

11/05/2009

SACRAMENTO– The Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and the U.S. Coast Guard remind boaters to review safety procedures during Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week Nov. 9-15.

“Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless and surprisingly a danger in open-air environments, such as boats,” said DBW Director Raynor Tsuneyoshi. “Regular maintenance, proper boat operation and safety awareness can reduce the risk of injury from this gas.”

Many boaters are aware that carbon monoxide is a danger in enclosed spaces when using on-board generators, heaters and stoves. But the gas can also accumulate in areas around and under a motorboat’s swim platform.

According to the World Health Organization, exposure to the gas at a level exceeding 87 parts per million (ppm) over a 15-minute interval is considered dangerous. Testing on late model ski boats has measured carbon monoxide levels ranging from 90-1,000 ppm. Boaters should avoid boat engine exhaust vent areas and not swim in these areas when the engine or generator is operating.

Additional ways to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure in the boating environment:

  • If your boat has rear-vented generator exhaust, check with the boat manufacturer for possible recall or reroute the exhaust to a safe area.
  • Schedule regular engine and exhaust system maintenance inspections by experienced and trained technicians.
  • Keep forward-facing hatches open, even in inclement weather, to allow fresh air circulation in living spaces.
  • When possible, run the boat so that prevailing winds will help dissipate the exhaust.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector in each accommodation space on your boat. Check detectors before each trip to be sure they are functioning properly.

Boaters are also reminded that “teak surfing” is dangerous and a violation of California law. This activity involves clinging to the swim platform or transom of an underway boat, then letting go and body surfing. Exposure to carbon monoxide from the boat’s engine can cause a teak surfer to faint and, if not wearing a life jacket, to drown.

 

The law prohibiting teak surfing went into effect Jan. 1, 2005 under the Anthony Farr and Stacey Beckett Boating Safety Act of 2004, which also requires that a set of carbon monoxide warning stickers be placed on the transom and helm of all new and used motorized boats sold in California. Decals are available through DBW.

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, tasteless and mixes evenly with the air. It enters your bloodstream through the lungs and displaces the oxygen your body needs. Prolonged exposure to low concentrations or very short exposure to high concentrations can lead to death. In boating environments carbon monoxide poisoning is confused with seasickness, intoxication or heat stress. If someone on board complains of irritated eyes, headache, nausea, weakness or dizziness, immediately move the person to fresh air, investigate the cause and take corrective action. Seek medical attention, if necessary.

For a pamphlet about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning or to obtain a warning decal for boats, visit www.dbw.ca.gov.

 

DBW enhances public access to California’s waterways and promotes boating and aquatic safety through programs funded by vessel registration fees, boating fuel tax dollars and boating facility construction loan payments.

10/23/2009

SACRAMENTO – The Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) has selected Elizabeth Russell, from Stockton as the winner of the 2009 Wear It California! Sweepstakes. Russell will be awarded a $1,000 Bass Pro Shops Shopping Spree Saturday, Oct. 24 at 12:50 p.m. at the Manteca Bass Pro Shops location, 1456 Bass Pro Drive.

“Bass Pro Shops is excited to once again be a partner of the Wear It California! effort,” said Manteca Bass Pro Shops Store Manager Dan Dugger.  “We are supportive and congratulatory of the campaign and its many partners for their hard work and dedication toward safer boating.”

Participants entered the contest by filling out a pledge card or a survey at event locations, or by filling out an online survey. Russell’s survey was selected at random.

This is the second year that the Wear It California! campaign and Bass Pro Shops have joined together to educate and promote life jacket usage in the hopes of increasing wear rates among recreational boaters and water enthusiasts in the Delta.

The 2009 campaign ran from Memorial Day to Labor Day and consisted of ten marina events along the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta and numerous educational events in the Northern California region. It was promoted by DBW, the U.S. Coast Guard and the National Safe Boating Council as part of a national effort designed to increase life jacket wear rates among recreational boaters by distributing adult inflatable life jackets to those who pledge to wear them.

Since the inception of the campaign, wear rates have been increasing each year, from six percent in 2007 to 13 percent in 2008. Preliminary results indicate a significant increase in 2009.

For more information on the Wear It California! campaign, please visit www.WearItCalifornia.com.

10/06/2009

SACRAMENTO – The California Boating and Waterways Commission today approved a $631,000 grant for improvements to the County of Shasta for the Balls Ferry Boat Launching Facility.

The project includes demolition of the existing deteriorated ramp, construction of a new single-lane boat launch ramp with vertical curve and a pre-cast vault restroom, installation of a new boarding float, resurfacing of the existing parking area, new sidewalks and lightning, a concrete project credit sign, and low-maintenance landscaping and ancillary items.

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission.

09/30/2009

SACRAMENTO - The California Boating and Waterways Commission will meet Oct. 6 in Sacramento to consider a $631,000 boat launching and facility improvement grant. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 9:30 a.m. at the Courtyard Sacramento Cal Expo, 1782 Tribute Road.

The commission will consider approving the grant to the County of Shasta for improvements to the Balls Ferry Boat Launching Facility located on the Sacramento River. The proposed project includes demolition of the existing deteriorated ramp, construction of a new single-lane boat launch ramp with vertical curve and a pre-cast vault restroom, installation of a new boarding float, resurfacing of the existing parking area, new sidewalks and lightning, a concrete project credit sign, and low-maintenance landscaping and ancillary items. The estimated total project cost is $810,000. This total includes the current request of $631,000 and a previously approved Boating and Waterways grant totaling $179,000 awarded October 2007.

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission.

09/29/2009

SACRAMENTO –The Department of Boating & Waterways (DBW) reminds consumers to seek out a licensed yacht broker before buying a used boat. Brokers will negotiate an equitable transaction on the consumer’s behalf, ensure that the transaction is in accordance with state, federal and local laws and make certain individuals are treated fairly.

Befor selecting a yacht broker, consumers are advised to verify the license of a broker with DBW. Although the department cannot refer consumers or provide recommendations, a directory of licensed yacht brokers may be found on the department’s Web site, listed below. Consumers may also contact the department directly to get a complaint history on specific brokers.

Consumers are also advised to order DBW’s free guide titled “How to Buy A Used Boat.”. This booklet guides individuals in determining the type of boat that best suits their needs and interests, explains the procedures that go into buying a boat, and displays the services that a licensed yacht and ship broker can provide.

Another service that DBW provides is the investigations on questionable sales transactions. These transactions can be reported to the department. Investigators may begin an investigation based on allegations and evidence. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted.

For more information about licensing yacht brokers, or to order the “How to Buy A Used Boat” booklet, please call DBW’s Yacht and Ship Unit at (888) 326-2822 or visit www.dbw.ca.gov. The consumer guide may be directly downloaded at www.dbw.ca.gov/pubs/usedboat/index.htm.

09/22/2009

SACRAMENTO – Federal, state and local agencies are urging boaters, marina and yacht club operators, and the general public to help halt the spread of Asian Kelp. This aquatic invasive species, also known as Undaria pinnatifida, has been found in San Francisco Bay and Pillar Point Harbor (Half Moon Bay).

“As far as we can determine at this point, the infestations are small, but the populations include many large, reproductive adults, which appear to have already spawned,” said Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) scientist Chela Zabin. “If we take swift action, we may be able to prevent this from spreading further and avoid economic and ecological damages.”

Asian Kelp can grow on ship hulls, nets, fishing gear, moorings, ropes, docks and other marine structures. Although it can spread short distances on its own, invasions have been linked to boating traffic.

All boaters and anyone who accesses the San Francisco and Half Moon bays are being asked to take the following steps to halt the spread of the Asian Kelp:

  • Report any observations of this kelp to SERC.
  • Identify the exact location.
  • If possible, remove the kelp and send photographs to SERC to confirm identity.
  • Store the sample in a plastic bag in a cooler or refrigerator until its identity has been confirmed.
  • Avoid moving contaminated (infected) vessels or equipment.
  • Clean boats before moving or returning home. Specifically:
    • Clean boat hull, underwater running gear, and internal seawater systems before traveling beyond home region, especially if visiting major ports, international waters, islands or event with boats from many places.
    • Clean the boat again before moving to another region or returning home.
    • If boat is heavily fouled after such trips, haul it for cleaning upon arrival and contain the fouling growth.
    • Drain livewells, bait tanks and bilge water before traveling and before returning.
    • Do not throw the kelp back in the water.

Because of its prolific growth and large size, the Asian Kelp can quickly foul natural and man-made structures, causing economic and ecological damage. It also competes for light and space with native populations of marine algae, plants and animals, drastically affecting native ecosystems.

The California Department of Boating and Waterways, and scientists from the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the California State Lands Commission and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are working with SERC to carefully delineate the boundaries of the current populations while engaged in a manual removal effort and educate the public on this aquatic invasive plant.

This invader has been in Southern California since the year 2000. It has spread into the harbors of Channel Island, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Monterey, Oceanside, Pt. Hueneme, Santa Barbara and Santa Catalina, and into the bays of Mission and San Diego.

Additional information about how to prevent the spread of the Asian Kelp and other saltwater aquatic invasive species, or how to order educational material, or to volunteer for removal and survey efforts may be found on www.dbw.ca.gov or by contacting (415) 435-712, sercundaria@si.edu.

09/21/2009

SACRAMENTO – Non-motorized boating has skyrocketed in California and is now the fastest growing segment of recreational boating in the state according to a report released today. Non-Motorized Boating in California, initiated by the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) to help address the lack of information about the demographic, shows that non-motorized boating contributed $1.7 billion to California's economy in 2006.

“This report tells us that the popularity of non-motorized boating is on the upswing and that we can expect thousands of new boaters to enjoy the waterways in the coming years,” said DBW Director Raynor Tsuneyoshi.  ”Kayaking, canoeing and rafting are great ways to enjoy California’s beautiful waterways, and this report will serve as an important planning tool for meeting boaters’ needs.”

The report, the first in depth study of non-motorized boating in the United States, provides information on all aspects of non-motorized boating, including the numbers and types of boats and participants, and the economic importance to the state.  The report was conducted over a twelve month period during 2006 and 2007.  Key findings include:

  • An estimated 2.5 million Californians participate in non-motorized boating, generating more than 48 million non-motorized boater user days.
  • About 1.7 million rafts, canoes and inflatable boats are now being enjoyed on California’s waterways; this number is expected to continue to grow rapidly.
  • Kayaks are the most common type of boat, followed by inflatable boats.

Research included in the report suggests that non-motorized activity has grown in recent years because it is relatively inexpensive.  Growth can also be attributed to continued new participation among baby boomers as they near and enter retirement.

Prior studies have reviewed particular aspects of non-motorized boating, such as national boating participation rates or boating safety, but never a broad assessment at the national level or in any other state. 

The Non-Motorized Boating in California report provides a new and better understanding of the social and economic benefits of non-motorized boating, and contains important information that organizations can utilize to mold policy and fiscal issues and improve boater safety and education, waterways management and public access.  DBW’s full report is available at http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Reports/N-M_Boating.aspx.

09/03/2009

SACRAMENTO – The 2009 Wear It California! life jacket campaign will conclude at a Sept. 5 event at Tower Park Marina in Lodi. The campaign has distributed close to 700 inflatable life jackets to boaters on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta this summer.

At the event, which will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., life jackets will be distributed along with boating safety materials. To be eligible to receive a life jacket, boaters must be over the age of 16 and present a signed pledge card to the Wear It California! crew at the event. The pledge card, which states that boaters promise to wear a life jacket while boating, can be downloaded from the campaign’s Web site, www.WearItCalifornia.com, or can be filled out the event. Life jacket supplies are limited.

Boaters are also invited to enter the campaign’s summer sweepstakes contest to win a $1,000 shopping spree courtesy of Bass Pro Shops. There are two ways boaters can win: visit www.WearItCalifornia.com and complete the online survey or meet up with the Wear It California! during the event and complete a pledge card. By providing contact information, names will be entered for the final drawing taking place in late September 2009.

The Wear It California! campaign, promoted by the U.S. Coast Guard and the California Department of Boating and Waterways, is part of a national effort designed to increase life jacket wear rates among recreational boaters and sport enthusiasts. For the past two years, the California campaign has been successful in promoting life jacket use in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Wear rates rose from six percent in 2006 to 13 percent in 2007, while remaining largely flat in other areas of the country. This measured success has motivated other states to adopt the program in their communities.

For more information about the Wear It California! campaign, please visit www.WearItCalifornia.com or call (916) 327-1832.

09/01/2009

SACRAMENTO - The California interagency task force working to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive mussels urges boaters to be especially diligent this holiday weekend. Anyone who visits a lake or reservoir must clean, drain and dry their boats, personal watercraft or any other equipment that comes in contact with the water, both before they arrive and as they are leaving a waterway.

“Quagga and Zebra mussels are a serious threat to our aquatic environment and fisheries,” said Donald Koch, Director of the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG). “It’s crucial that everyone who uses public waters takes the time to make sure they’re not transporting these mussels. It only takes a few mussels to contaminate an entire waterway and destroy fisheries.”

Quagga and Zebra mussels are non-native, fast-reproducing invasive species that can cause severe problems for boaters and water enthusiasts. They spread from one body of water to another by “hitchhiking” on boats and other equipment. Water in boat engines, bilges, live wells and buckets can carry tiny mussel larvae (called veligers) to other waterways, as well.

“Trailered boats are one avenue for the spread of Quagga mussels and many other aquatic invasive species,” said Raynor Tsuneyoshi, Director of the Department of Boating and Waterways. “About 85 percent of boaters trailer their boats, so it is very important to clean, drain and dry vessels.”

To help prevent the spread of mussels, boaters should inspect all exposed surfaces, wash boat hulls thoroughly, remove all plants from the boat and trailer, drain all water, including lower outboard units, clean and dry live-wells and bait buckets and dispose of baitfish in the trash. Watercraft should be kept dry for at least five days in warm weather and up to 30 days in cool weather between launches in different bodies of fresh water. These measures are critical to the state’s efforts to safeguard boats and preserve our fisheries.  

An excellent guide to cleaning vessels of invasive mussels is available on the Web at www.dbw.ca.gov/PDF/BoatingQuaggaGuide.pdf.

Travelers are also advised to contact their destination before leaving home, to learn what restrictions or inspection requirements are in place. Boaters entering the state should be prepared for inspections at California Department of Food and Agriculture Border Protection Stations. Inspections, which can also be conducted by DFG and the Department of Parks and Recreation, include not only a check of boats and personal watercraft, but also trailers and items that might be onboard. Contaminated vessels and equipment are subject to quarantine or impoundment.

Quagga mussels were first detected in the Colorado River system in January 2007 and were later found in San Diego and Riverside counties by state and local water agencies. They are now known to be in 21 California waters. Zebra mussels were discovered in San Justo Reservoir in San Benito County in January 2008.

Both mollusks can attach to and damage almost any submerged surface. They can:

  • ruin a boat engine by blocking the cooling system and causing it to overheat;
  • increase drag on the bottom of a boat, reducing speed and wasting fuel;
  • jam a boat’s steering equipment, putting occupants at risk;
  • require frequent scraping and repainting of boat hulls;
  • colonize all underwater substrates such as boat ramps, docks, lines and other underwater surfaces, requiring constant cleaning;
  • cost the owners of these items a great deal of money.

A toll-free hotline has been established for anyone involved in activities on lakes and rivers seeking information on the invasive and destructive Quagga or Zebra mussels at 1-866-440-9530.

For more information about Quagga/Zebra mussels, the state’s response activities and what you can do to help prevent their spread in California, please visit the DFG Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel.

08/31/2009

SACRAMENTO - Boaters are invited to learn about their role in combating aquatic invasive species at a seminar September 24 in Sausalito. The seminar will be held from 8:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Bay Model Visitor Center - 2100 Bridgeway. It is free and open to the public. Registration is required by September 21.

Aquatic invasive species like Quagga and Zebra mussels pose a serious threat to water delivery systems, hydroelectric facilities, agriculture, recreational boating and fishing and the ecosystem. The seminar will explain why it is important for boaters to learn how to inspect their watercraft and fishing gear to prevent the spread of these species into California waterways. Boats are the most common avenues for spreading Quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species.

The seminar will be hosted by the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and the California Coastal Commission's Boating Clean and Green Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (UFWS), the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG), University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE)-Sea Grant Extension Program, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) and the Marin County Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program.

Presenters include, DFG Environmental Scientist Catherine Mandella, USFWS Invasive Species Watershed Coordinator Ron Smith, UCCE Sea Grant Extension Program Marine Advisors Dr. Carolynn (Carrie) Culver and Leigh Taylor Johnson, SERC Ecologist Chela Zabin and Boating Clean and Green Coordinator, Vivian Matuk.

For questions about the seminar or to register, please contact Vivian Matuk at vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov or (415) 904-6905.

07/02/2009

SACRAMENTO - The Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) reminds boaters that safety courses can help prevent accidents on the water this summer. Department statistics show that in 2008, only 18 percent of operators involved in accidents had formal boating safety training.

"Unfortunately every year, many boaters get hurt or die," said DBW Director Raynor Tsuneyoshi. "Accidents can be avoided by taking a boating safety course to learn about state and federal boating laws, rules of the road, boat handling, required and recommended equipment, navigational aids and other safety tips."

Some key boating laws intended to make California's waterways safer include:

Life Jackets

  • Children under 13-years-old must wear a U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved life jacket when on a moving vessel of 26 ft. or less.
  • Everyone on a personal watercraft (popularly known as a jet ski) and anyone being towed behind a boat must wear a USCG approved life jacket.
  • USCG-approved life jackets must be carried for each person on board and must be easy to get to in case of an emergency.

 

Operation

  • A person must be 16 years of age or older to operate a vessel powered by a motor of more than 15 horsepower.
  • A person 12 to 15 may operate any vessel powered by a motor of more than 15-horsepower, if he or she is supervised on board by someone at least 18 years of age.

 

Alcohol

  • It is against the law for anyone to operate a boat or motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 percent or more.

 

Teak Surfing

  • Due to carbon monoxide poisoning, it is against the law to teak surf or drag behind a boat.

 

Water Skiing

  • When using a boat to tow a person on water skis, there must be in the boat, in addition to the operator, an observer of at least 12 years of age.
  • The observer will raise a flag to warn other boats about gear or skiers in the water. The flag must be orange or red and at least 12 inches square or rectangular.
  • Inflatable life jackets are not approved for use while water skiing.

 

DBW offers a complimentary correspondence boating safety course designed for home study that allows students to progress at their own pace. Those who pass the course with a score of 80 percent or better are awarded with certificates recognized by many insurance companies for boat insurance discounts.

To order a course or to find out more about California boating safety information and laws, please visit www.BoatSmarter.com.

06/22/2009

"Operation Dry Water" Part of Nationwide Effort

SACRAMENTO - Recreational boaters may want to think twice before reaching for that cold beer this weekend. Marine law enforcement officers, as part of a national coordinated effort of stepped-up enforcement known as Operation Dry Water, will be out in force on California's waterways June 27-28 looking for boat operators whose Blood Alcohol Content exceeds the state limit of .08 percent. Operation Dry Water will include increased enforcement on patrol, boating under the influence checkpoints as well as boater education.

"In 2008, 49 percent of all boating fatalities were a result of alcohol use," said California Department of Boating and Waterways Director Raynor Tsuneyoshi. "We want people to be safe and have fun while boating, but without consuming alcohol."

Alcohol can impair a boater's judgment, balance, vision, and reaction time. It can increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effects of cold-water immersion. Sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion - "stressors" common to the boating environment - intensify the side effects of alcohol, drugs, and some prescription medications.

"There will be zero tolerance for anyone found operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs on our waters," said California Boating Safety Officers Association President Cary Smith. "There will be arrests this weekend, and some boaters will face the consequences of boating under the influence, but we'd much rather arrest someone than to have to tell their friends and family they're never coming back."

According to California State Law, a person convicted of operation of a vessel while intoxicated could receive up to a $1,000 fine, six months in jail or both.

Operation Dry Water is a joint program of California, the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard. Twenty-nine California law enforcement agencies will be participating in the program (see attachment).

To find out more about Operation Dry Water, please visit www.nasbla.org. For California boating safety information and laws, please visit www.dbw.ca.gov.

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DBW provides officer training and financial aid to local boating law enforcement agencies to provide for adequate boating law enforcement and to ensure that the enforcement of California boating laws is uniform throughout the State. Department programs are funded by vessel registration fees, boating fuel tax dollars and boating facility construction loan payments.

Note to media: Media Ride-alongs are available for the weekend of Operation Dry Water. Please refer to the attachment for individual law enforcement contact information.

06/11/2009

SACRAMENTO - Marina operators can now apply for national boating infrastructure (BIG) grants for transient boat dock improvements through the California Department of Boating and Waterways. The deadline to submit grant proposal applications is Monday, August 24, 2009.

BIG is a national competitive program open to both publicly- and privately-owned marinas with available funding totaling $13 million. Eligible projects include installation or upgrades of visitor tie-up facilities for recreational boats 26-feet-long or longer, and renovation or construction of visitor docks, restrooms gangways and dockside utility hookups.

Applicants should first review the federal guidelines, to determine if they meet the necessary requirements. Eligibility criteria and submission information can be obtained by visiting www.dbw.ca.gov/Funding/BIG.aspx or contacting Kevin Atkinson at (916) 327-1788.

 

The Department of Boating and Waterways enhances public access to California's waterways and promotes on-the-water safety through programs funded by vessel registration fees, boating fuel tax dollars and boating facility construction loan payments.

05/29/2009

SACRAMENTO - Boaters are invited to learn about their role in combating aquatic invasive species at a seminar June 16 in Santa Barbara. The seminar will be held from 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. at the Chase Palm Park Center - 236 E. Cabrillo Blvd. It is free and open to the public. Registration is required by June 12.

Aquatic invasive species like Quagga and Zebra mussels pose a serious threat to water delivery systems, hydroelectric facilities, agriculture, recreational boating and fishing, and the ecosystem. The seminar will explain why it is important for boaters to learn how to inspect their watercraft and fishing gear to prevent the spread of these species into California's waterways. Boats are the most common avenues for spreading Quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species.

The seminar will be hosted by the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and the California Coastal Commission's Boating Clean and Green Program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (UFWS), the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG), the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE)-Sea Grant Extension Program, the NOAA Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary and the City of Santa Barbara.

Presenters include DFG Fish and Wildlife Interpreter Betsy Magladry, USFWS Invasive Species Watershed Coordinator Ron Smith, UCCE Sea Grant Extension Program Marine Advisors Dr. Carolynn (Carrie) Culver and Leigh Taylor Johnson, and Boating Clean and Green Coordinator Vivian Matuk.

For questions about the seminar or to register, please contact Vivian Matuk at vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov or (415) 904-6905.

 

The Boating Clean and Green Campaign is a state-wide program designed to reduce pollution from boating and marine business by educating boaters and marina operators about environmentally sound boating practices. http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Environmental/


05/19/2009

SACRAMENTO - Boaters are invited to learn about their role in combating aquatic invasive species at a free seminar June 9 in San Diego. The seminar will be held from 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p .m. at the San Diego Yacht Club, Spinnaker Room 1011 - Anchorage Lane. It is free and open to the public. Registration is required by June 4.

Aquatic invasive species like Quagga and Zebra mussels pose a serious threat to water delivery systems, hydroelectric facilities, agriculture, recreational boating and fishing, and the ecosystem. The seminar will explain why it is important for boaters to learn how to inspect their watercraft and fishing gear to prevent the spread of these species into California's waterways. Boats are the most common avenues for spreading Quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species.

The seminar will be hosted by the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and the California Coastal Commission's Boating Clean and Green Program, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (UFWS), the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG), the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE)-Sea Grant Extension Program and the San Diego Yacht Club.

Presenters include, DFG Staff Services Analyst Dominique Norton, USFWS Invasive Species Watershed Coordinator Ron Smith, UCCE Sea Grant Extension Program Marine Advisors Dr. Carolynn (Carrie) Culver and Leigh Taylor Johnson, and Boating Clean and Green Coordinator Vivian Matuk.

For questions about the seminar or to register, please contact Vivian Matuk at vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov or (415) 904-6905.

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The Boating Clean and Green Campaign is a state-wide program designed to reduce pollution from boating and marine business by educating boaters and marina operators about environmentally sound boating practices. http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Environmental/

05/19/2009

SACRAMENTO -- The Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) announces the 10th Annual Life Jacket Trade-In, May 22 from 2-4 p.m. at 13 California Sam's Club stores. A complete list of participating stores is attached.

Community partners including the Sacramento Safe Kids Coalition, Radio Disney, CBS Radio, the Drowning Accident Rescue Team and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will come together at the events to help answer questions and provide information about boating and water safety. Experts will stress the importance of wearing a life jacket at all times when in or around the water.

Water enthusiasts are invited to bring their life jackets for inspection by water safety professionals. If a life jacket is found to be unserviceable, a new one of the appropriate size will be given in exchange. Life jackets will be available at each site while supplies last. (Only one new life jacket per family.)

This event is being conducted in connection with National Safe Boating Week (May 16-22) that aims to spread the message about life jacket wear and safe boating practices.

California boating law requires all children 11 years or younger to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. In addition, every person on board a personal watercraft (also known as jet skis) and any person being towed behind a vessel must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. For more information, please visit www.BoatSmarter.com.

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DBW enhances public access to California's waterways and promotes boating and aquatic safety through programs funded by vessel registration fees, boating fuel tax dollars and boating facility construction loan payments.

Attachment: Participating Sam's Club stores.

05/19/2009

SACRAMENTO - The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) today approved $5.746 million in boating facility improvement loans. The loan recipients are:

Santa Barbara Harbor -- Santa Barbara County
The Commission approved a $4,781,000 loan to the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department to fund improvements for the Marina One replacement project at the Santa Barbara Harbor. The project will be completed through 10 phases over a period of 11 years, cost approximately $10,500,000 and will encompass the full replacement of the main head walk and fingers "A" - "P." The requested loan is intended to fund the first four phases.

Glen Cove Marina - Solano County
The Commission approved a $965,000 loan to Nima Gabbay, owner of Glen Cove Marina. Funds will be used to bring the marina's public restrooms up to ADA access standards, dredge the harbor and marina slips to provide access for boaters and tenants, and add to the landscaping of the marina for better public use and access to the Bay Trail.

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission

05/18/2009

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, California state departments are asking boaters to clean, drain and dry their boats to stop the spread of harmful invasive mussels. Properly cleaning and drying will also protect boats and help boaters avoid quarantines or being turned away from a water destination.

"Quagga and Zebra mussels pose a serious threat to our waters and fisheries," said Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG) Director Donald Koch. "The spread of these mussels threatens aquatic ecosystems and fisheries, water delivery systems, hydroelectric facilities, agriculture, recreational boating and fishing, and the environment in general. Boaters should be prepared for inspections throughout the state designed to help ensure California's water bodies remain mussel-free." In addition to being sure to clean, drain and dry watercraft, the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) urges boaters to plan for possible launch restrictions and inspections by calling water bodies before leaving home. Programs and requirements vary and can change rapidly.

"Anyone planning to go boating should contact their destination about local restrictions or requirements," said DBW Director Raynor T. Tsuneyoshi. "At some locations, potentially contaminated vessels - those not properly cleaned, drained and dried - could be turned away."

Quagga and Zebra mussels can cause severe problems for boaters and water enthusiasts. They can:

  • ruin the engine by blocking the cooling system - causing overheating
  • increase drag on the bottom of the boat, reducing speed and wasting fuel
  • jam steering equipment on boats
  • require scraping and repainting of boat bottoms
  • colonize all underwater substrates such as boat ramps, docks, lines and other underwater surfaces requiring constant cleaning

To help prevent the spread of these mussels, boaters should inspect all exposed surfaces, wash boat hulls thoroughly, remove all plants from boat and trailer, drain all water, including lower outboard units, clean and dry livewells and bait buckets and dispose of baitfish in the trash. Watercraft should be dried for at least five days and up to 30 days depending upon the weather between launches in different fresh bodies of water. These steps are designed to thwart spread of the invasive mussels, safeguard boats and preserve high quality fisheries.

"We are strongly encouraging boaters to arrive at State Park reservoirs with clean and dry vessels to ensure they are granted access, "said Ruth Coleman, director of California State Parks. "Boaters may have their vessels inspected and we hope that people understand and cooperate to stop the spread of this destructive invasive species." California law makes it illegal to possess or transport Quagga or Zebra mussels and gives DFG authority to stop, detain, search and quarantine boats suspected or determined to be contaminated with mussels. Additional agencies have been granted this authority including the Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and Parks.

"Vehicles with watercraft are being stopped at California border stations for inspection," said Food and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura. "In the last two years, we have inspected tens of thousands vessels crossing into California and have confirmed adult mussels on 323. Each of those finds meant we saved a California lake or reservoir from exposure to this invasive species." Zebra mussels inhabit water depths from four to 180 feet, while Quagga can reach depths more than 400 feet. Both mollusks can attach to and damage boat trailers, cooling systems, boat hulls and steering equipment. Mussels attached to watercraft or trailers can be transported and spread to other water bodies. Water in boat engines, bilges, live wells and buckets can carry mussel larvae (called veligers) to other water bodies as well.

Quagga mussels were first detected in the Colorado River system in January 2007 and were later found in San Diego and Riverside counties by state and local water agencies. Zebra mussels were discovered in San Justo Reservoir in San Benito County in January 2008.

A public toll-free number hotline has been established for boaters and anyone involved with activities on lakes and rivers seeking information on the invasive and destructive Quagga mussels at 1-866-440-9530.

For more information on the Quagga/Zebra mussel response and what you can do, please visit the DFG Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel.

05/18/2009

SACRAMENTO - The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) will meet May 19 to consider $5.746 million in boating facility improvement loans. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 8:30 a.m. at the Sterling Hotel, 1300 H Street, in Sacramento. The proposed loan recipients are:

Santa Barbara Harbor -- Santa Barbara County

The Commission will consider a $4,781,000 loan to the City of Santa Barbara Waterfront Department to fund improvements for the Marina One replacement project at the Santa Barbara Harbor. The project will be completed through 10 phases over a period of 11 years and will encompass the full replacement of the main head walk and fingers "A" - "P." Approximate cost for the 10 phases is $10,500,000. The requested loan is intended to fund the first four phases. Between the years 1961 and 1985, the Commission consented to loans totaling $7,291,000 for improvements to Marina One.

Glen Cove Marina - Solano County

The Commission will consider a $965,000 loan to Nima Gabbay, owner of Glen Cove Marina. Funds will be used to bring the marina's public restrooms up to ADA access standards, dredge the harbor and marina slips to provide access for boaters and tenants, and add to the landscaping of the marina for better public use and access to the Bay Trail. The Commission previously consented to a $400,000 loan for improvements to the marina in 1989, which was paid in full upon the sale of the marina to the current owner. Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission.

05/13/2009

Campaign Kick-Off Event May 16 in Sacramento

SACRAMENTO - The 2009 Wear It California! life jacket campaign kicks off May 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Discovery Park in Sacramento. The campaign, promoted by the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW), will encourage Delta boaters to wear their life jackets and practice boating safety techniques.

"Life jackets are the number one proven way to save a life in the event of a boating accident," said USCG Office of Boating Safety Chief of Program Operations John Malatak. "The success of the Wear It California! campaign is directly linked to its effectiveness in inspiring boaters to develop good habits that include putting on their life jackets before heading out on the water and not just storing them in their boats."

Boaters are invited to partake in kickoff event activities, which include, pledging to wear a life jacket in order to receive a new and trendy inflatable one, trading-in an outgrown or unsafe child's life jacket for a new one, or receiving a free vessel safety check from the USCG Auxiliary. Other boating professionals will also be on site distributing promotional material and boating safety information to encourage boaters to hit the water this summer, but safely and responsibly. Life jacket supplies are limited. One per family.

The Wear It California! campaign is part of a national effort designed to increase life jacket wear rates among recreational boaters and sport enthusiasts. For the past two years, the California campaign has been successful in promoting life jacket use. Wear rates in the Delta rose from six percent in 2006 to 13 percent in 2007, while remaining largely flat in other areas of the country. This measured success has motivated other states to adopt the program in their communities.

The campaign will distribute over 700 inflatable life jackets at 10 different marina events along the Delta this summer. To be eligible, boaters must present a signed pledge card to the Wear It California! crew at one of the marina events. The pledge card, which states that boaters promise to wear a life jacket while boating, can be downloaded from the campaign's Web site or can be filled out at one of the marina events. A complete list of all participating marinas and events may be viewed on the campaign's Web site at www.WearItCalifornia.com.

The Delta region, a haven for hundreds of thousands of boaters each year, was chosen for the campaign not only because of its immense popularity, but also due to its fairly significant contribution to the state's overall boating statistics. Overall, the state's boating fatalities were down last year, but fatalities in the Delta were up from 4 in 2007 to 15 in 2008.

"The Delta is one of the state's "hot spots" in terms of water recreation," said DBW Director Raynor T. Tsuneyoshi. "This collaborative initiative represents an opportunity to ensure that boating on the Delta is a safe and enjoyable activity for all."

Key partners in the Wear it California! campaign include the National Safe Boating Council, Nautique, Bass Pro Shops, the Stockton Ports, West Marine, Radio Disney, Togo's, the USCG Auxiliary, and many marinas and law enforcement agencies throughout the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta area. Sacramento's KHTK radio personalities Sep Hendrickson of California Sportsmen, Kent Brown of Ultimate Bass and all time Western U.S. fishing tournament money winner Gary Dobyns have also signed on as campaign spokespersons and will be appearing at campaign events throughout the summer.

The joint effort will utilize a full range of marketing strategies and tools to promote key messages regarding the importance of wearing - and not just stowing - life jackets on board one's boat. Promotion activities will include radio advertising, events, signage at boat ramps and marinas, celebrity appearances, and a customized "Campaign Tour Boat" provided by Nautique and manned by trained staff that will cruise the Delta throughout the summer months, distributing life jackets and safety messages to recreational boaters.

During all of these promotions, boating safety advocates will emphasize the advantages of the modern styles of life jackets now available. Unlike the traditional orange horse collar of yesteryears, today's life jackets are technologically advanced, making them more convenient, less restrictive - and sometimes - even unnoticeable to the boater who is wearing one. An additional advantage to boaters is that life jackets are now custom-designed for their specific water activities, i.e. fishing, cruising, water-skiing, etc.

For more information about the Wear it California! campaign, visit www.WearItCalifornia.com or call (916) 651-5692.

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California Department of Boating and Waterways
DBW's mission is to provide safe and convenient public access to California's waterways and leadership in promoting the public's right to safe, enjoyable and environmentally sound recreational boating.

05/11/2009

Officials to emphasize the enjoyment of safe and responsible boating May 16

LAS VEGAS - "Go Boating Safely!" is the new theme for Colorado River's Annual Tri-State Boating Safety Fair. The event will take place May 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at London Bridge Beach Park, 1340 McCulloch Rd in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Many beautiful lakes in Arizona, California and Nevada offer a variety of boating opportunities, but none of them are more popular than the 233-mile long and beautiful Colorado River. "The river feeds into several massive lakes and runs through three states, so we will be there to clarify both the fun boating opportunities and the safety challenges we see with a waterway this large and complex. We will also be distributing boating safety bags filled with promotional material and information on boating laws at 27 different boat launch ramps to make sure we reach the most boaters," said Raynor T. Tsuneyoshi, California's Boating Law Administrator.

This sixth annual fun-filled family affair will kick-off National Safe Boating Week (May 16-22) by state, local and federal boating agencies that want to encourage boaters to hit the water this summer, but safely and responsibly.

Organizers will be talking about challenges that boaters face while boating on the Colorado River and about general boating safety. Families will be given the opportunity to bring in one outgrown or unsafe life jacket to trade in for a brand new one from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (while supplies last).

"This year, the lakes are full to the brim and we want people to go out on the water and enjoy the experience, but we also want them to be safe and make good decisions," said Kevin Bergersen, Arizona's Boating Law Administrator. "Most of us know that life jackets and designating a sober captain saves lives, but expecting the unexpected and using good judgment are key factors in returning home safely. We want this event to provoke that kind of awareness and thinking." >

Boating officials will also be informing boaters about "clean, drain and dry," an effective procedure for combating and preventing the rapidly spreading nuisance of quagga mussels. This nasty invasive species continues to pose a serious threat to fun, safe and environmentally friendly boating. "Quagga mussels are a growing concern as they take over more of the Colorado River System," said Fred Messmann, Nevada's Boating Law Administrator. He said experts will be on hand to demonstrate cleaning techniques, explain the issue and provide clarification to boaters with questions.

The Tri-State Boating Safety Fair is free and the public is encouraged to stay the entire day to picnic, swim, fish and partake in the action. Visit www.BoatColoradoRiver.com for more information about the boating safety fair. Information on common boating laws and each state's requirements on the Colorado River can also be viewed on this Web site.

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Note to media: Before the event, call for story opportunities, press packets or fact sheets. On the day of the event, reporters should check in at the Media tent for media ride-alongs or to interview spokespersons. High resolution photos from prior years are available. More details are at www.BoatColoradoRiver.com.

04/01/2008

SAN FRANCISCO  The Keep the Delta Clean Program and the Boating Clean & Green Campaign will train volunteers in Stockton on April 9 and in Sacramento on April 14 to become “Dockwalkers,” individuals who promote environmentally-sound boating throughout California’s marina communities. The Stockton training will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Dameron Annex Stockton Hospital (classroom #1).  The Sacramento training will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Coast Guard Aux. Radio Station on the Sacramento River (portable Classroom Building).

Dockwalkers will be trained to engage members of the public and the boating community in adopting clean boating practices. Once training is complete, these volunteers don their official “Dockwalker” hats and conduct face-to-face boater education while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and special events.  

Training is free and Dockwalking is fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California’s marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy. The training provides an overview of environmentally-sound boating practices, information about how to conduct Dockwalking, educational materials that Dockwalkers will distribute including boater kits, a video about clean boating in California and baseball caps.  In the last five years, more than 500 Dockwalkers have distributed over 60,000 boater kits statewide. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

The Keep the Delta Clean Program is a Delta marina and boating educational program implemented by Contra Costa, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Solano and Yolo Counties, The City of Stockton, The California Coastal Commission, and The California Department of Boating and Waterways.  The Boating Clean & Green Campaign is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. These programs promote environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters.   Other partners in the Stockton and Sacramento trainings include the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

For more information about the Dockwalker program, and to register for training, please visit www.coast4u.rog (Click on Boating Clean and Green), or contact Vivian Matuk at
(415) 904-6905 or vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov.

03/21/2008

SAN FRANCISCO  The Boating Clean & Green Campaign will train volunteers Saturday, March 29th  to become “Dockwalkers,” individuals who promote environmentally-sound boating throughout California’s marina communities. The training will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club (Main Room) in Marina Del Rey.

Dockwalkers will be trained to engage members of the public and the boating community in adopting clean boating practices. Once training is complete, these volunteers don their official “Dockwalker” hats and conduct face-to-face boater education while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and special events.  

Training is free and Dockwalking is fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California’s marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy. The training provides an overview of environmentally-sound boating practices, information about how to conduct Dockwalking, educational materials that Dockwalkers will distribute including boater kits, a video about clean boating in California and baseball caps.  In the last five years, more than 500 Dockwalkers have distributed over 60,000 boater kits statewide. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

The Boating Clean & Green Campaign is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. The program promotes environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters.   Other partners in the Marina Del Rey Dockwalker training include the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Foundation, the Association for Santa Monica Bay Yacht Club, the Women’s Sailing Association, the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club and the Fairwind Yacht Club.
 For more information about the Dockwalker program, and to register for training, please visit www.coast4u.org (Click on Boating Clean and Green), or contact Vivian Matuk at (415) 904-6905 or vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov.

03/05/2008

SAN FRANCISCO  The Boating Clean & Green Campaign will train volunteers Saturday, March 29th to become "Dockwalkers," individuals who promote environmentally-sound boating throughout California's marina communities. The training will take place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club (Main Room) in Marina Del Rey.

Dockwalkers will be trained to engage members of the public and the boating community in adopting clean boating practices. Once training is complete, these volunteers don their official "Dockwalker" hats and conduct face-to-face boater education while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and special events.

Training is free and Dockwalking is fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California's marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy. The training provides an overview of environmentally-sound boating practices, information about how to conduct Dockwalking, educational materials that Dockwalkers will distribute including boater kits, a video about clean boating in California and baseball caps. In the last five years, more than 500 Dockwalkers have distributed over 60,000 boater kits statewide. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

The Boating Clean & Green Campaign is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. The program promotes environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters. Other partners in the Marina Del Rey Dockwalker training include the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Foundation, the Association for Santa Monica Bay Yacht Club, the Women's Sailing Association, the Santa Monica Windjammers Yacht Club and the Fairwind Yacht Club.

For more information about the Dockwalker program, and to register for training, please visit www.coast4u.org (Click on Boating Clean and Green), or contact Vivian Matuk at (415) 904-6905 or vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov.

02/28/2008

SAN FRANCISCO  The Boating Clean & Green Campaign will train volunteers Saturday, March 15 to become "Dockwalkers," individuals who promote environmentally-sound boating throughout California's marina communities. The training will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Humboldt Yacht Club in Eureka.

Dockwalkers will be trained to engage members of the public and the boating community in adopting clean boating practices. Once training is complete, these volunteers don their official "Dockwalker" hats and conduct face-to-face boater education while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and special events.

Training is free and Dockwalking is fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California's marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy. The training provides an overview of environmentally-sound boating practices, information about how to conduct Dockwalking, educational materials that Dockwalkers will distribute including boater kits, a video about clean boating in California and baseball caps. In the last five years, more than 500 Dockwalkers have distributed over 60,000 boater kits statewide. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

The Boating Clean & Green Campaign is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. The program promotes environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters. Other partners in the Eureka Dockwalker training include the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Humboldt Baykeeper.

For more information about the Dockwalker program, and to register for training, please visit www.coast4u.org (Click on Boating Clean and Green), or contact Vivian Matuk at (415) 904-6905 or vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov.

02/22/2008

SACRAMENTO — The California Boating and Waterways Commission has approved $4.6 million in boating facility improvement grants and loans.

The grants and loans awarded by the commission this week will go toward four boat launch and small craft harbor improvement projects. A description of each project is attached.

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department may provide grant funds to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction and development of small craft boat launching facilities and loan funds to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission.

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Approved grant and loan recipients

Coyote Point - San Mateo County

The commission approved a grant of $146,000 to the County of San Mateo for improvements to the Coyote Point boat launching facility, formerly known as San Mateo Point. The proposed boat launch facility project includes construction of a new two-unit unisex restroom with utilities to be located approximately 110' from the launch ramp. The restroom will replace the portable chemical toilet currently being used. Previously, the commission consented to grants totaling $575,000 for improvements to this facility.

McClure Point- Mariposa County

The commission approved a phase-one grant of $136,000 to the Merced Irrigation District for new construction of a boat launching facility at McClure Point on Lake McClure. The total project cost is expected to be $2.4 million. The proposed project entails construction of a new two-lane boat launching ramp. A boarding float will be installed adjacent to the ramp and slope protection will be added to the sides of the ramp and a parking area will be constructed with sidewalks, curbs and lightning. A restroom and associated utilities will be installed, as well as a project credit sign.

Coyote Point Marina - San Mateo County

The commission approved a first phase marina loan of $218,000 to the County of San Mateo for improvements to the Coyote Point Marina. The total project cost is $1,829,000. Funds would be used to replace Dock 29 at the northeastern end of the Coyote Point Marina. The dock, originally built in the early 1970s, has deteriorated over time leaving it unable to withstand the wind and tide cycles of the San Francisco Bay. The commission, between 1973 and 1996, consented to loans totaling $3,450,000 for improvements to the Coyote Point Marina.

Sacramento Marina - City of Sacramento

The commission approved a final phase loan of $1,475,000 to the City of Sacramento for improvements to the South Basin of the Sacramento Marina. The total project cost is $9 million. The South Basin project entails: 1) demolition of existing berths (except 30 existing concrete berths which will be extended) and construction of a reconfigured system containing 171 slips, 2) berth covers, including a portion of the north basin, 3) installation of gangways, 4) replacement of dock utilities, 5) upgrading of shore electric, 6) dredging, 7) construction of a new restroom, 8) construction of a dock connector between the two basins, 9) installation of three fuel dispensers, 10) installation of a fire sprinkler system, and 11) addition of a security system.

02/21/2008

SAN FRANCISCO  The Boating Clean & Green Campaign will train volunteers Saturday, March 1st to become “Dockwalkers,” individuals who promote environmentally-sound boating throughout California’s marina communities. The training will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the American Legion Yacht Club in Newport Beach.

Dockwalkers will be trained to engage members of the public and the boating community in adopting clean boating practices. Once training is complete, these volunteers don their official “Dockwalker” hats and conduct face-to-face boater education while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and special events.

Training is free and Dockwalking is fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California’s marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy. The training provides an overview of environmentally-sound boating practices, information about how to conduct Dockwalking, educational materials that Dockwalkers will distribute including boater kits, a video about clean boating in California and baseball caps. In the last five years, more than 500 Dockwalkers have distributed over 60,000 boater kits statewide. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

The Boating Clean & Green Campaign is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. The program promotes environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters. Other partners in the Newport Beach Dockwalker training include the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Foundation, Project-Greenwors and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.

For more information about the Dockwalker program, and to register for training, please visit www.coast4u.org (Click on Boating Clean and Green), or contact Vivian Matuk at (415) 904-6905 or vmatuk@coastal.ca.gov.

02/15/2008

SACRAMENTO — The California Boating and Waterways Commission will meet February 21 to consider $4.654 million in boating facility improvement grants and loans, discuss copper anti-fouling paint and the department's media campaigns. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 8:30 a.m. at the Marriott San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf, 1250 Columbus Avenue, San Francisco, California.

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the California Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department may provide grants funds to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction and development of small craft boating launching facilities and loan funds to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the seven-member Boating and Waterways Commission.

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Attached: Proposed loan recipients and commission's consent calendar

Proposed grant and loan recipients

Buckhorn -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)

Because of construction cost increases, the commission will consider a USACE request to combine funds from previously approved funding for the Eagle Pass and Buckhorn boat launching facilities to complete the Buckhorn launch facility project as proposed. Total available funds would be $1.8 million. The Buckhorn BLF is the primary boat launching facility on Black Butte Lake, located in Tehama and Glenn counties. The project is anticipated to cost $1.64 million.

Coyote Point - San Mateo County

The commission will consider a grant of $150,000 to the County of San Mateo for improvements to the Coyote Point BLF, formerly known as San Mateo Point. The proposed boat launching facility project includes construction of a new two-unit unisex restroom with utilities to be located approximately 110' from the launch ramp. The restroom will replace the portable chemical toilets currently being used. Previously, the commission consented to grants totaling $575,000 for improvements to this facility.

McClure Point - Mariposa County

The commission will consider a phase-one grant of $136,000 to the Merced Irrigation District (District) for new construction of a boat launching facility at McClure Point on Lake McClure. The total project cost is expected to be $2,400,000. The proposed project entails construction of a new two-lane boat launching ramp. A boarding float will be installed adjacent to the ramp and slope protection will be added to the sides of the ramp. A parking area will be constructed with sidewalks, curbs and lightning. A restroom and associated utilities will be installed, as well as a project credit sign. The commission previously consented to grants totaling $354,000 to the District for improvements at the existing facility at McClure Point.

Coyote Point Marina - San Mateo County

The commission will consider a first phase marina loan of $218,000 to the County of San Mateo for improvements to the Coyote Point Marina. The total project cost is $1,829,000. Funds would be used to replace Dock 29 at the northeastern end of the Coyote Point Marina. The dock, originally built in the early 1970s, has deteriorated over time leaving it unable to withstand the wind and tide cycles of the San Francisco Bay. The commission previously consented to loans totaling $3,450,000 for improvements to the Coyote Point Marina between 1973 and 1996.

Sacramento Marina - City of Sacramento

The commission will consider a final phase loan of $1,475,000 to the City of Sacramento for improvements to the South Basin of the Sacramento Marina. The total project cost is $9,000,000.The South Basin project entails: 1) demolition of existing berths (except 30 existing concrete berths which will be extended) and construction of a reconfigured system containing 171 slips, 2) berth covers, including a portion of the north basin, 3) installation of gangways, 4) replacement of dock utilities, 5) upgrading of shore electric, 6) dredging, 7) construction of a new restroom, 8) construction of a dock connector between the two basins, 9) installation of three fuel dispensers, 10) installation of a fire sprinkler system, and 11) addition of a security system. The commission previously consented to loans totaling $15,675,000 to the City of Sacramento for improvements to the Sacramento Marina.

01/22/2008

Contacts: Alexia Retallack, Dept of Fish and Wildlife (916) 952-3317
                Harry Morse, Dept of Fish and Wildlife (916) 838-4410
                Pete Weisser, Dept of Water Resources, (916) 802-8375
                Gloria Sandoval, Dept of Boating and Waterways (Spanish) (916) 651-5692, (916) 715-1657
                Mary Fricke, Dept of Fish and Wildlife (916) 322-8911

Zebra mussels have been found in the San Justo Reservoir in San Benito County, the Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG) confirmed today. This is the first population of this destructive invasive species to be found in California waters.

"The discovery of Zebra mussels in a central California waterway has us very concerned," said Secretary for Resources Mike Chrisman. "Like its relative the Quagga mussel, this species can cause significant environmental, recreational and economic impacts once established in a body of water. It is important that boaters do everything they can to help stop their spread."

An angler fishing in the San Justo Reservoir last week reported landing a clump of what appeared to be mussels. These mussels and a sample collected by DFG biologists were then verified to be Zebra mussels by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) laboratory. Similarly, Quagga mussels were first detected in the Colorado River system in January 2007 and were later found in San Diego and Riverside counties by state and local water agencies.   

A multi-agency taskforce that includes DFG, Department of Water Resources (DWR), the Department of Boating and Waterways and California State Parks has responded with surface and underwater inspectors to determine the extent of the threat to California waters from Zebra and Quagga mussels.  

No mussels have been detected on artificial substrates in the San Luis Reservoir, which flows into the San Justo Reservoir, or in the O’Neill Forebay. So far, mussels have not been found anywhere in California's State Water Project (SWP), which draws its water from Northern California watersheds. DWR regularly monitors for Zebra and Quagga mussels throughout the SWP, one of the largest water and power systems in the United States.

Both species of mussel are non-native aquatic mollusks that wreak havoc with the environment by disrupting the natural food chain and releasing toxins that affect other aquatic species. Although they range in size from microscopic to the size of a fingernail, they are prolific and attach themselves to hard and soft surfaces. Boats are the primary transporters of Zebra and Quagga mussels. The Zebra mussels inhabit water depths from 4 to 180 feet, with Quagga reaching depths more than 400 feet, and can attach to and damage boat trailers, cooling systems, boat hulls and steering equipment. Mussels attached to watercraft or trailers can be transported and spread to other water bodies. Water in boat engines, bilges, live wells and buckets can carry mussel larvae (veligers) to other water bodies as well. A mussel infestation can potentially lead to the closure of boating in affected waterways. San Benito County Public Works closed San Justo Reservoir to all boating activity.

The main risk of mussel introduction into the SWP is from trailered boats. It is important to follow the steps listed below and to cooperate with vessel inspections that are being conducted at a number of CDFA border inspection stations around the state to help prevent the spread of Zebra or Quagga mussels to any water system.   

All boaters and anyone who accesses freshwater aquatic environments should take the following steps to inhibit the spread of mussels when leaving the water:

  • Inspect all exposed surfaces - small mussels feel like sandpaper to the touch
  • Wash the hull of each watercraft thoroughly, preferably with high pressure/hot water
  • Remove all plants and animal material
  • Drain all water and dry all areas
  • Drain and dry the lower outboard unit
  • Clean and dry all live-wells
  • Empty and dry any buckets
  • Dispose of all bait in the trash
  • Wait five days and keep watercraft dry between launches into different fresh waters

A toll-free phone line, 1-866-440-9530, has also been established for anyone involved with activities on lakes and rivers seeking information about Zebra or Quagga mussels. This public line is staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

DFG is also conducting trainings around the state about how to inspect boats for Zebra and Quagga mussels. The trainings are open to water managers, marina operators and other local, county and state officials. The next trainings are scheduled in Sacramento on Jan. 23, and Fresno on Jan. 24. To register for either class, officials should call (916) 928-8330 as soon as possible to ensure a seat. There is no charge for attending the class.

For more information on Zebra and Quagga mussels, visit the DFG Web site at www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel.

01/07/2008

SACRAMENTO  Due to the recent storms in northern California, there is excessive floating debris in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which poses a threat to boaters.

Boaters should keep a sharp lookout for debris including large floating logs, especially on the Sacramento River. Water levels are now lower in the Delta and are not expected to pose problems within the next five days.

DBW, the state's boating agency, is authorized to restrict or ban recreational boating in the Sacramento-San Joaquin during periods of high water levels to protect people and property, facilitate flood fighting, and control vessel wakes that may exacerbate levee erosion or overtopping.

-30-

01/03/20088

SACRAMENTO  Due to high winds possible through Friday, Jan. 4, the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) advises recreational boaters to use caution while on the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. A National Weather Service high wind warning is in effect from 10 p.m. tonight through 4 p.m. Jan 4.

“High wind speeds of 25 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph can be expected in the valley during the warning period,” said Raynor Tsuneyoshi, Director of DBW. “Boaters are advised to secure their vessels in their marina berths to avoid property damage.” 

High wind speeds can cause flying debris, uproot trees and down power lines. The National Weather Service is forecasting that winds will decrease late Friday afternoon but remain breezy to windy into Friday night. 

DBW, the state's boating agency, is authorized to restrict or ban recreational boating in the Sacramento-San Joaquin during periods of high water levels to protect people and property, facilitate flood fighting, and control vessel wakes that may exacerbate levee erosion or overtopping.

-30-

 

 

12/14/2012

Remember Safe Boating Practices During the Holidays
Cold Water and Bad Weather Pose Real Dangers





Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

December 14, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) reminds boaters to practice safe boating over the holidays. Equipping recreational vessels with proper safety equipment, being mindful of state boating laws, avoiding alcohol, and checking weather and wave conditions can decrease the chances of a boating accident.

Below are some tips that will help boaters have a safe winter holiday season:

Life Jackets: There must be a properly-fitted life jacket on the vessel for each person. Children under the age of 13, all personal watercraft riders, paddle-boarders, and anyone being towed behind a boat are required by law to wear a lifejacket.

Emergency Equipment: In the event of an emergency, boaters should have the following equipment in order to expedite a rescue:

  • Flares and an emergency position indicating radio beacon with 406 MHz capabilities.
  • A GPS unit, or at a minimum, boaters should maintain knowledge of local waters and know their location at all times.
  • An operational marine VHF radio. (The VHF channel 16 is an emergency channel. Improper transmission on channel 16 not only hampers Coast Guard response, but is punishable under federal law.)

Boating Laws: In order to ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience, it is important for all boaters to know and follow California’s boating laws. These laws may be found in the ABCs of California Boating booklet or in a boating safety class or course.

Weather and Wave Conditions: Mariners should check current and forecasted weather and wave conditions prior to getting underway, and remain aware of changing conditions once on the water.

  • National Weather Service broadcasts weather conditions throughout the day on VHF channel WX2.
  • Coast Guard broadcasts weather conditions on VHF channel 22A at 9:30 a.m., noon, and 4:30 p.m.
  • DBW posts wave forecasts on its website.
  • Current weather information and advisories.

Additional safe boating information may be found at www.dbw.ca.gov. Boaters are also invited to use the department’s boating facility locator. It is a digital tool that makes enjoying California’s waterways easy. The locator can be downloaded to smartphones or viewed online at www.BoatFacilityLocator.com.

A vessel-safety inspection can ensure vessels are properly equipped with the recommended and required equipment. These inspections are complimentary and take only a couple of minutes. To book an appointment with a Coast Guard Auxiliary examiner, boaters can visit: www.vesselsafetycheck.org.

DBW wishes all boaters and their families a happy and safe winter holiday season!

 



10/24/2012

$3.39 Million in Grants for Boating Facilities Approved
Projects Will Improve Boating Facilities in San Bernardino and Ventura Counties






Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

October 24, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) today approved $3.39 million in grants for upgrades to boat launching facilities in Ventura and San Bernardino counties.

The projects and their improvements include:

Moabi Regional Park Boat Launching Facility – San Bernardino County
The Commission approved an $840,000 grant to San Bernardino County for parking lot and exit lane improvements, restroom replacement, a boat wash down area, related utilities, and incidental landscaping at the Moabi Regional Park Boat Launching Facility.

Ventura Harbor Boat Launching Facility – Ventura County
The Commission approved a $2,550,000 grant to the Ventura Port District to replace the nearly 50-year-old six-lane concrete boat launch ramp, reconfigure boarding floats, and provide slope protection at the Ventura Harbor Boat Launching Facility.

—30—

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.


 

10/19/2012

 

Boating and Waterways Commission to Consider $3.39 Million in Grants for Boating Facilities Oct. 24




Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

October 12, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) will meet Oct. 24 in Long Beach to consider $3.39 million in boat launching facility grants. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 9:00 a.m. at the Marriott Long Beach, 4700 Airport Plaza Drive.

Items being considered by the Commission include:

Moabi Regional Park Boat Launching Facility – San Bernardino County
The Commission will consider approving a $840,000 grant to the County of San Bernardino for parking lot and exit lane improvements, restroom replacement, a boat wash down area, related utilities and incidental landscaping.

Ventura Harbor Boat Launching Facility – Ventura County
The Commission will consider approving a $2,550,000 grant to the Ventura Port District to replace the nearly 50-year old six-lane concrete boat launch ramp, reconfigure boarding floats and provide  slope protection.

A detailed agenda of the meeting and information on the Commission may be found at http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Commission/.

—30—

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.


 

10/11/2012

 

Recreational Boaters Cleanup California Coast




Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

October 11, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California’s recreational boating community increased its contributions to Coastal Cleanup Day (CCD). This year 412 volunteers cleaned 35 miles of shoreline and collected approximately 3,640 pounds of trash and recyclables on land and from 32 non-motorized vessels.

“Recreational boaters are committed to keeping California’s waterways clean and to efforts which make the marine environment healthier,” said the Department of Boating and Waterways acting Director Lucia Becerra.

With 75 percent of CCD sites reporting for this year’s efforts, the statewide count for volunteers is at 60,593. Those volunteers picked-up 670,372 pounds of trash and recyclable materials, or 304 tons and cleaned more than 1,400 miles of coast.

The California Coastal Commission and Department of Boating and Waterways would like to thank the following marinas, yacht clubs, coordinators and partners for their participation:

Marinas and Yacht Clubs:

 

County Coordinators/Partners:

 

Information was collected this year to better understand what resources recreational boaters require to further help in Coastal Cleanup Day. Your yacht club or marina can easily be part of this effort in 2013. For information on how to participate, visit www.coast4u.org or contact the following coordinators: Vivian Matuk, (415) 904-6905 or Shannon Waters, (415) 904-5214.



10/02/2012

Fleet Week, America's Cup - Formula for fun, frenzy




Eleventh Coast Guard District

Contact: Public Affairs

Office: (510) 437-3325

Mobile: (510) 772-8865

October 2, 2012

 

This week's confluence of major events in San Francisco Bay is a rare opportunity for boaters and citizens to explore and enjoy the area's vibrant maritime culture, but it also holds the potential for accidents and conflicts that the Coast Guard and other emergency response agencies are working hard to avoid.  While some Bay area Coast Guard personnel will have time to enjoy the annual salute to our nation's naval forces, most local crews will be on duty maintaining port security and keeping boaters and the public safe.

"We enjoy a robust and very diverse commercial and recreational maritime area," said Capt. Cynthia Stowe, commander of Coast Guard Sector San Francisco. "In order for everyone to have full access to the Bay, we must ensure all activities on the water are conducted safely and securely. This is especially important during major maritime events like Fleet Week with a parade of military vessels and air shows, and America's Cup racing, all of which can draw a huge fleet of spectator vessels to vie for space with the normal flow of commercial vessel traffic. Informed boaters exercising safe practices will reduce the likelihood of accidents and add to overall safety."

Although most on-water action will be Friday through Sunday with the parade of ships, air shows, and America's Cup races, activity affecting area waterways also occur Wednesday with the arrival of visiting naval vessels and Thursday with Blue Angels air show rehearsals. The Coast Guard is working to get the word out to boaters, and shoreline spectators, to be extremely cautious especially in the vicinity of special safety and security zones.  Broadcast and published notices to mariners give details of the zones and other special regulations and restrictions.

Boaters are reminded to check their vessels and safety gear, dress warmly, plan ahead, and heed all warnings, directions, and restrictions established by the Coast Guard and other public safety agencies on the Bay and ashore.  Officials also stress that boating while intoxicated is both illegal and highly dangerous.

Coast Guard safety and security measures include:

-- Coast Guard search and rescue boats and crews from Stations Golden Gate, San Francisco, and Vallejo are being augmented by crews from Stations Bodega Bay, Monterey and Rio Vista, Los Angeles, Lake Tahoe and Morro Bay, as well as boats from other state and local agencies, for safety and law enforcement patrols and emergency response.

-- The Coast Guard Cutters Pike, Tern, Sockeye, Hawksbill, Edisto, and Barracuda will patrol the Bay to coordinate safety and security operations and respond to any emergencies. 
-- Coast Guard security teams, including explosives detection K-9s, will be deployed to check piers, docks, and other facilities for security threats.

-- Safety and security zones will be in place and enforced by Coast Guard, partner agency, and event organizer boats to protect the parade of ships, all naval vessels moored in the area, and the air show "flight box" and America's Cup race course areas in San Francisco Bay.  Click HERE for charts and information on Fleet Week and America's Cup safety and security zones.

-- Coast Guard helicopters will conduct port security and safety patrols throughout the Bay area. 

-- Commercial shipping, ferry boat, and other traffic will be closely monitored by the Coast Guard's Vessel Traffic Service.

With more than 3,200 Coast Guard men and women serving at stations, ships, a major training center, and regional headquarters commands here, the service is the most visible branch of the military in the Bay area. Coast Guard units and personnel participating in Fleet Week activities include:

-- The Coast Guard Cutter Sherman, homeported in San Diego, will participate in the parade of ships Saturday and will be open for public tours Friday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Monday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at San Francisco's pier 80B.

-- Senior Coast Guard leaders and search and rescue experts will participate in Fleet Week multi-agency humanitarian assistance and emergency response seminars and exercises.

-- A Coast Guard search and rescue demonstration will be part of the Fleet Week air show at approximately 12:15 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon Sunday near the Municipal Pier at Aquatic Park.

-- One hundred Coast Guard men and women from Coast Guard Training Center Petaluma will represent the service during the Italian Heritage Parade in San Francisco Sunday.

-- Crewmembers from Coast Guard Base Alameda and other Bay area commands will participate in community service projects such as visits to veterans' hospitals and a cleanup project at the San Francisco Zoo.

-- Coast Guard teams will participate in inter-service softball competition and physical fitness challenges.  

-- A group of patients from the Lucile Packard Children's Hospital will join the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter George Cobb for a San Francisco Bay safety patrol Friday.

Links:

Fleet Week and America's Cup safety and security zone notice/chartlets

www.fleetweek.us






07/05/2012

Boating Infrastructure Grants Available for Marina Operators




Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

July 5, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - Marina operators can now apply for a national boating infrastructure grant (BIG) for transient boat dock improvements through the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW). The deadline to submit grant proposal applications is Wed., Aug. 27, 2012.

BIG is a national competitive program open to both publicly- and privately-owned marinas with funding totaling $13 million. Eligible projects include installation or upgrades of visitor tie-up facilities for recreational boats 26-feet-long or longer, and renovation or construction of visitor docks, restrooms, gangways and dockside utility hookups. The funds are also used to produce and distribute information and educational materials about the program and recreational boating.

Applicants should first review the federal guidelines, to determine if they meet the necessary requirements. Eligibility criteria and submission information can be obtained by visiting www.dbw.ca.gov/Funding/BIG.aspx or contacting Kevin Atkinson at
(916) 327-1788. 

DBW is the designated agency responsible for administering U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) BIG program in California. USFWS receives the applications from DBW and scores and ranks the proposals using government/ industry review committee. 


06/21/2012

California Boating Law Enforcement Officers Gear Up for 2012 Operation Dry Water




Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

June 21, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - This weekend, boating law enforcement officers across the nation will be out in force looking for drunken recreational boat operators. This stepped-up enforcement, known as Operation Dry Water (ODW), is part of a national effort to raise awareness on the dangers of operating a recreational boat under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. A boat operator or even passengers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above the legal limit run a significantly increased risk of being involved in a fatal boating accident.

“The concept of designating a driver in a car is not enough on recreational boats,” stated Department of Boating and Waterways Acting Director Lucia Becerra. “Drunken boat passengers can easily fall overboard, swim near the propeller or cause overloading problems by leaning over the side or standing up in small vessels, causing vessels to capsize. Everyone who drinks alcohol on board a boat is at risk.”

Alcohol can impair a boater’s judgment, balance, vision and reaction time. It can increase fatigue and susceptibility to the effect of cold-water immersion. Sun, wind, noise, vibration and motion – “stressors” common to the boating environment – intensify the side effects of alcohol, drugs, and some prescription medications.

In 2011, 512 boating accidents, 313 injuries and 54 fatalities were reported to the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW). Results from boating reports where alcohol testing was conducted indicate alcohol as a contributing factor in 29 percent of the boating fatalities.

In California, it is against the law to operate a boat or water ski with a BAC of 0.08 percent or more. A person with a BAC less than 0.08 percent may also be arrested if conditions are deemed to be unsafe. If convicted, a person may be sentenced to jail for up to six months and assessed fines of up to $1,000. Two convictions within seven years could add a jail term of up to one year. Boaters caught operating under the influence may also find their voyage terminated and their vessel impounded.

ODW, a multi-agency education and enforcement initiative launched by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators in 2009 in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, puts thousands of local, state and federal marine law enforcement officers on the water nationwide prior to the Fourth of July holiday to give boating under the influence enforcement high visibility during the peak boating season.

Participating California law enforcement counties include: Contra Costa, Imperial, Lake, Los Angeles, Nevada, Plumas, Sacramento, San Bernardino, Shasta, Solano, Sonoma, Trinity, Tulare and Yuma. Participating U.S. Coast Guard stations include: Bodega Bay, Humboldt Bay, Oxnard, Rio Vista, San Pedro and Vallejo.

For more information on this annual event, visit www.OperationDryWater.org. California specific boating laws and safety tips may be found at www.BoatResponsibly.com.



05/25/2012

Agencies Urge Boaters’ Assistance over Memorial Day Weekend in Combating Spread of Invasive Quagga and Zebra Mussels





Contacts:  Department of Boating and Waterways,
Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

Department of Fish and Wildlife,
Kyle Orr (916) 322-8958

Department of Parks and Recreation,
Roy Stearns (916) 654-7538

Department of Water Resources,
Pete Weisser (916) 653-3350

Department of Food and Agriculture,
Steve Lyle (916) 654-0462

May 25, 2012


A California interagency effort battling the spread of invasive quagga and zebra mussels urges boaters to remain especially vigilant over the three-day Memorial Day weekend. Those who launch vessels at any body of water are subject to watercraft inspections, and are encouraged to clean, drain and dry their motorized and non-motorized boats, including personal watercraft, and any equipment that comes into contact with the water before and after recreating at a waterway.

“Quagga and zebra mussels present a serious threat to our aquatic environment,” said Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFG) Director Charlton H. Bonham. “These invasive mussels can be detrimental to the state’s waters, boats and recreational opportunities.  Preventing their introduction is the best way to protect our aquatic resources.”

Quagga and zebra mussels, non-native freshwater mussels native to Eurasia, multiply quickly and encrust watercraft and infrastructure, and compete for food with native and sport species. These mussels can be spread from one body of water to another attached to nearly anything that has been in an infested waterbody, or via standing water from an infested waterbody entrapped in boat engines, bilges, live-wells and buckets. To ensure watercraft is clean, drained and dry, many local agencies are conducting boat inspections. DFG has posted the list of these inspections on its website (www.dfg.ca.gov/invasives/quaggamussel) along with additional information about the invasive mussels and what you can do to help prevent their spread in California. Boaters should call ahead to check for restrictions prior to visiting their destination.

To prevent spreading invasive mussels and to breeze through an inspection, before arriving at a waterbody boaters should have inspected all exposed surfaces, removed all plants and organisms, drained all water, including that contained in lower outboard units, live-wells and bait buckets, and allowed the watercraft to thoroughly dry. Watercraft should be kept dry for at least five days in warm weather and up to 30 days in cool weather, between launches in different bodies of fresh water. These measures are essential to safeguard California waterways.

DFG has also developed a short video demonstrating the ease of implementing the clean, drain and dry, prevention method, available at www.facebook.com/CaliforniaDFG. In addition, a detailed guide to cleaning vessels of invasive mussels is available on DFG's website at  www.nrm.dfg.ca.gov/FileHandler.ashx?DocumentID=4957.

Travelers are also advised to be prepared for inspections at California Department of Food and Agriculture Border Protection Stations. Inspections, which can also be conducted by DFG and the Department of Parks and Recreation, include not only a check of boats and personal watercraft, but also trailers and all onboard items. Contaminated vessels and equipment are subject to quarantine or impoundment.

Quagga mussels were first detected in the Colorado River system in January 2007 and were later found in San Diego and Riverside counties. They are now known to be in 24 watersin the Golden State, all in Southern California. Zebra mussels were discovered in San Justo Reservoir in San Benito County in January 2008.

Both species can attach to and damage virtually any submerged surface. They can:

  • Ruin a boat engine by blocking the cooling system and causing it to overheat
  • Jam a boat’s steering equipment, putting occupants and others at risk
  • Require frequent scrapping and repainting of boat hulls
  • Colonize all underwater substrates such as boat ramps, docks, lines and other underwater surfaces, causing them to require constant cleaning
  • Cost the owners of these items a lot of money

A multi-agency effort that includes DFG, the Department of Boating and Waterways, Department of Water Resources and State Parks has been leading an outreach campaign to alert the public to the quagga and zebra mussel threats. A toll-free hotline at 1-866-440-9530 is available for those seeking information on quagga or zebra mussels.



05/23/2012

$945,000 Grant Approved for Boating Facility



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

May 23, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. The California Boating and Waterways Commission approved a $945,000 boat launching facility grant to the City of Clearlake.

The grant will be used to lengthen one existing boarding float to Redbud Park’s Thompson Harbor Boat Launching Facility.  Other improvements include two new boarding floats, dredging, parking lot improvements and security lighting for a portion of the parking area and courtesy dock entrance.

—30—

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.

 



05/18/2012

Boating and Waterways Commission to Consider a $945,000 Boat Launching Facility Grant May 23



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

May 18, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) will meet May 23 in Sacramento to consider a $945,000 boat launching facility grant. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 9 a.m. at the Hilton Hotel, 2200 Harvard Street.

Item being considered by the Commission includes:

Redbud Boat Launching Facility – City of Clearlake, Lake County
The Commission will consider approving a $945,000 grant to the City of Clearlake for improvements to Redbud Park’s Thompson Harbor Boat Launching Facility.  The proposed project includes lengthening one existing boarding float, replacing two suspended boarding floats, parking lot improvements, and security lighting for a portion of the parking area and courtesy dock entrance.

A detailed agenda of the meeting and information on the Commission may be found at http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Commission/.

 

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.



05/15/2012

Erin Landry
Arizona Game & Fish Department
(623) 236-7377 Office
elandry@azgfd.gov

Gloria Sandoval
California Department of Boating & Waterways
(916) 715-1657 Cell
Gloria.Sandoval@parks.ca.gov

Edwin Lyngar
Nevada Department of Wildlife
(775) 741-1004 Cell
elyngar@ndow.org



Tri-State Boating Safety Fair to promote life jackets
May 19 event to kick off boating season along Colorado River System


LAKE HAVASU CITY, Ariz. – Boating officials from three states are teaming up once again to stress the importance of wearing a life jacket at the ninth annual Tri-State Boating Safety Fair at the Colorado River. The event will take place May 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at London Bridge Beach Park, 1340 McCulloch Blvd., Lake Havasu City.

The event coincides with the kickoff of National Boating Safety Week (May 19-25) and the “Ready, Set, Wear It” life jacket campaign sponsored by the National Safe Boating Council in partnership with the Canadian Safe Boating Council.

As in past years, a hallmark of the event will be the life jacket trade-in. People may bring their old life jackets and get free new ones, approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, while supplies last. All told, officials expect to give away about 400 life jackets.

Other activities at the safety fair include complimentary boating safety information and free boat inspections for proper safety equipment.

Boating professionals and others also will participate in an attempt to break the record for simultaneous life jacket wear worldwide. The goal is not only to promote the comfortable and versatile options when it comes to life jackets, but also to educate the public about life jackets and safe boating in general. At Lake Havasu, the life jacket event will take place at noon at the park.

“We have seen these events morph over the years, as we try ever more elaborate ways to get through to boaters,” said Kevin Bergersen, boating law administrator at the Arizona Game and Fish Department. “We are doing all we can to let boaters know that life jackets are comfortable, fashionable and most importantly, can save your life in a boating accident.”

In addition to life jacket wear, boating professionals will be on hand to answer questions, hand out information and distribute promotional and safety items for children. The Coast Guard Auxiliary, local law enforcement agencies and other groups will be available to cover every kind of summer safety topic. 

“We have seen this event grow in participation and importance through the years,” said David Pfiffner, Nevada’s boating law administrator. “We know how to help boaters on Havasu and along the entire Colorado River have a safe, enjoyable summer. We encourage boaters to come by and take a few minutes to catch up on information that could save a life.”

After the main event, the three states have teamed up to provide information all summer long on the website www.BoatColoradoRiver.com, and through targeted outreach efforts using social media. 

“Boaters who cannot make the event are encouraged to visit the website to find out about the different boating laws that exist on the Colorado River,” said Lucia Becerra, California’s boating law administrator. “The website also has information on how to select an appropriate life jacket.”

The lower Colorado River System is shared by Arizona, California and Nevada. If taken as its own boating entity, the Colorado River System is the second most dangerous waterway in America, including the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, the Great Lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico. State lines artificially slice up the system, so the three states have come together to talk about the river holistically. While many laws are congruent, a few laws differ and can confuse boaters.  Providing a forum to the millions of Colorado River boaters to learn about the different boating laws is crucial to reduce the number of accidents, injuries and fatalities that occur every year. 

The life jacket campaign is funded by a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, and is administered by the Coast Guard.

Note to media: Before the event, call for story opportunities, press packets or fact sheets. On the day of the event, reporters should check in at the media tent for media ride-alongs or to interview spokespersons. High-resolution photos from prior years are available. More details are at www.BoatColoradoRiver.com.



05/15/2012

Life Jacket Trade-In Events to be Held on May 25
Visit Select Locations to Participate



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

May 15, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. The Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW), Radio Disney, and UC Davis Children’s Hospital announce the 13th Annual Life Jacket Trade-In. The event will take place May 25 from 4-6 p.m. at select Kohl’s Department Store locations in the Sacramento region, from noon-2 p.m. at Plaza El Segundo in El Segundo, and Old Town Plaza in Suisun City and from 2-4 p.m. at Alameda South Shore Center in Alameda. 

“It is important for water enthusiasts to not only wear life jackets, but to wear them correctly,” said DBW’s acting Director Lucia Becerra.  “Life jackets that are too small will not be able to keep your body afloat.  Life jackets that are too big will cause the device to push up around the face, which could be dangerous.”

The life jacket trade-in gives parents the opportunity for life jackets to be inspected by professionals.  If a life jacket is found to be outgrown or unserviceable, a new, properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is given in exchange (while supplies last).

Participating locations include:

Sacramento County

Kohl’s Department Stores 4-6 p.m.

Antelope
5030 Antelope Rd.

Natomas
4700 Natoma Blvd.

Elk Grove
8810 Calvine Rd., 9650 Bruceville Rd.

PointWest - Arden
1896 Arden Way

Folsom
1013 Riley St.

Rancho Cordova
11051 Olson Drive

Greenback
6135 San Juan Ave.

Roseville
10375 Fairway Drive

Los Angeles County

El Segundo
Plaza El Segundo 2-4 p.m.
760 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

San Francisco Bay Area

Alameda
Alameda South Shore Center noon-2 p.m.
523 S. Shore Center West

Suisun
Old Town Plaza noon-2 p.m.
Main and Solano Streets


Community partners include CBS Radio, Drowning Accident Rescue Team, Radio Disney, Sacramento Safe Kids Coalition, Solano County Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, UC Davis Regents, and the U.S. Power Squadrons.

This event is being conducted in connection with National Safe Boating Week (May 19-25), which aims to spread the message about life jacket wear and other safe boating practices.

California boating law requires all children under the age of 13, every person on board a personal watercraft (Jet Ski) or being towed behind a vessel to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.  The law also requires life jackets to be carried on a vessel for every person on board.

For more information about the life jacket trade-in or life jackets, please visit www.BoatResponsibly.com.

Note to media: DBW supplies life jackets for children and adults to public and private life jacket loan stations across the state.  The program gives an individual or family the opportunity to check out a life jacket for a day or a weekend by simply completing a loan form. For more information, visit the website listed above.



DBW enhances public access to California’s waterways and promotes boating and aquatic safety through programs funded by vessel registration fees, boating fuel tax dollars and boating facility construction loan payments.




05/10/2012

Life Jackets Available for Loan to Water Enthusiasts
Life Jacket Loaner Stations Located Statewide



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

May 10, 2012


SACRAMENTO, Calif. In an effort to reduce the number of drownings on California’s waterways, the Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) supports statewide life jacket loaner programs. 

“It is disheartening to hear reports of drowning victims being found without life jackets,” said DBW’s acting Director Lucia Becerra. “Knowing how to swim will not help someone who becomes unconscious, or can no longer swim or rescue themselves. A properly fitted life jacket is the number one way to increase the chances of survival.”

DBW supplies life jackets for children and adults to public and private loaner stations across the state. The program gives an individual or family the opportunity to check out life jackets for a day or a weekend by simply completing a loan form. Some stations have life jacket use requirements, so please contact participating locations for specifics.

California boating law requires all children under the age of 13, every person on board a personal watercraft (Jet Ski) or being towed behind a vessel to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. The law also requires that life jackets be carried on a vessel for every person on board.

For more information about these life jackets programs or other boating laws, please visit www.BoatResponsibly.com.

Note to Media: On May 25, DBW will be conducting life jacket trade-ins at select Kohl’s Department Store locations in the Sacramento region, Plaza El Segundo in El Segundo, Old Town Plaza in Suisun City and Alameda South Shore Center in Alameda. The program gives parents the opportunity for life jackets to be inspected by professionals. If a life jacket is found to be outgrown or unserviceable, a new, properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is given in exchange (while supplies last).


 



04/20/2012

California's Recreational Boaters Encouraged to Boat Clean and Green



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

April 20, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Earth Day serves as a reminder to California’s recreational boating community to continue protecting the state’s waterways and marine environment from invasive species and pollution.  

According to the California Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW), California has more than four million motorized and non-motorized recreational boaters. The negative impact that these boaters can have on California’s marine environment and boating facilities, can be significant.

The good news is that DBW provides a number of environmental services that boaters can use to minimize their impact on the marine environment. Below are some of these services:

  1.  Boat Cleaning Guide Book. The spread of aquatic invasive species, such as quagga/zebra mussels, can create havoc in the marine environment and damage motor boats. The Boat Cleaning Guide Book was compiled specifically for boat owners and watercraft users with general guidelines for all boaters and a basic checklist for inspecting and cleaning boats and recreational equipment for aquatic invasive species. There are also additional inspection and cleaning checklists for specific types of boats and equipment.
  1. Sewage Pumpouts. It is important for boaters to use sewage pumpouts or mobile-pumpout services to properly dispose of raw sewage. In some areas, dumping raw sewage into waterways can be illegal. Most importantly this practice can be unsafe for humans and the marine environment. Plan ahead and find out where your nearest pumpout station is located and how to properly use it.
  1. Fishing Line Recycling Stations. Besides making sure that you keep your trash on board, make sure to recycle monofilament fishing line appropriately. Monofilament fishing line can entangle and kill wildlife, and cause boat damage. Fishing line is not biodegradable and can remain in the environment for more than 600 years. Take advantage of shore-side facilities to properly dispose of trash, or recycle your fishing line.
  1. Disposing of a Vessel Properly. Proper disposal of an unwanted vessel is a vital part of clean and responsible boating. Because there are several environmental hazards associated with old vessels, including used oil, solvents and used batteries, it is important that all vessel owners properly dispose of their vessels at the appropriate time. There are several options for proper vessel disposal: Vessel Turn-In Program, donating, recycling and dismantling.
  1. Recycle, Collect, Report. Spill-proof oil changes with oil absorbent pads and dispose of them and oil filters properly. Remember to never use soap to disperse fuel and oil spills. It increases harm to the environment and it is illegal. Also, remember to report oil spills immediately to the corresponding agencies.

For more detailed information on these environmental services and to find out about other resources visit www.BoatResponsibly.com.



03/20/2012

$540,000 Grant Approved for Boating Facility



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

Mar. 20, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. –The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) approved a $540,000 boat launching facility grant to the County of San Luis Obispo last Wednesday.

The grant will be used to repave and restripe access way and parking areas to the Santa Margarita Lake boat launching facility. Other improvements include a new fish cleaning station and a new solar power system which will replace overhead powerlines across the lake.

The proposed $945,000 grant to the City of Clearlake, for improvements to the Redbud boat launching facility, was held over to the next Commission meeting.

 

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.



03/08/2012

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones Marine Sanctuary Asks Bay Area Boaters to Watch Out for Whales



Contact:        Mary Jane Schramm
(415) 561-6622, ext. 205

Sarah Marquis
(949) 222-2212

March 8, 2012

 

NOAA’s Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary advises San Francisco Bay Area boaters to watch out for and steer clear of whales. Multiple whale species migrate into the area in large numbers during the spring and summer. Boaters should use caution year-round, but springtime presents a higher chance of coming into close contact with whales.

Gray whales are at a particularly high risk of collisions with vessels, as they often travel near the outer coast shore and into San Francisco Bay and Tomales Bay, making their way north from breeding grounds off Mexico to feeding grounds off Alaska. Many of these whales travel directly through the busy shipping lanes off San Francisco in the Gulf of the Farallones sanctuary just outside the Golden Gate.

While several species migrate south through the sanctuary in the winter, gray whales — including mothers with newborn calves — swim closest to shore in the spring. Cow-calf pairs can sometimes be seen from shore, pausing in the surf zone for the calf to nurse or rest and avoiding killer whales.

Boaters should watch for the gray whale’s blow—or exhalation—which looks like a puff of smoke about 10 to 15 feet high, since very little of the whale is visible at the surface. A whale may surface and blow several times before a prolonged dive, typically lasting from three to six minutes.

Boaters should not:

  • Approach within 300 feet (about the length of a football field) of any whale
  • Cut across a whale’s path
  • Make sudden speed or directional changes
  • Get between a whale cow and her calf — if separated from its mother, a calf may be doomed to starvation

Each year, thousands of ships and smaller vessels pass through the Golden Gate. Even small craft collisions with a whale can have disastrous results for both whale and vessel. All whales are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Some local species, such as humpback and blue whales, are also protected by the Endangered Species Act.

Designated in 1981, Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary encompasses more than 1,200 square miles of ocean and coastal waters beyond California’s Golden Gate. The sanctuary’s nutrient-rich waters provide vital nursery and spawning grounds for fish and shellfish and support the largest breeding seabird rookery in the contiguous United States. At least 36 marine mammal species have been observed within its borders, including 25 endangered species, such as blue and humpback whales.

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Join us on Facebook, Twitter and our other social media channels.

On the Web:
Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary: http://farallones.noaa.gov
Farallones Marine Sanctuary Association: http://www.farallones.org



03/08/2012

Boating and Waterways Commission to Consider $1.49 Million in Grants for Boating Facilities Mar. 14




Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

Mar. 08, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) will meet Mar. 14 in San Diego to consider $1.49 million in boat launching facility grants. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 9:00 a.m. at the Marriott Hotel, 333 West Harbor Drive.

Items being considered by the Commission include:

Santa Margarita Lake Boat Launching Facility – San Luis Obispo County
The Commission will consider approving a $540,000 grant to the County of San Luis Obispo to repave and restripe access way and parking areas to the Santa Margarita Lake boat launching facilities, install a new fish cleaning station, and remove overhead electrical power lines across the lake, and replace with a solar power system.

Redbud Boat Launching Facility – Lake County
The Commission will consider approving a $945,000 grant to the City of Clearlake for improvements to the Redbud boat launching facility. The proposed project includes lengthening one existing boarding float; replacing two suspended boarding floats; incidental dredging required for dock installation; parking lot rehabilitation and lighting. 

A detailed agenda of the meeting and information on the Commission may be found at http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Commission/.

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Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.



02/10/2012

Become a Dockwalker, Help Keep California’s Waterways Clean



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

February 10, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California’s Department of Boating and Waterways (DBW) and Coastal Commission’s Boating Clean and Green Program invite boaters to become Dockwalkers. Training is free and Dockwalking is a fantastic way to interact with boaters to help keep California’s marinas, waterways, and ocean clean and healthy.

“It is important for boaters to not only boat safely, but to also implement clean boating practices,” stated DBW’s Acting Director Lucia Becerra. “Safety and protecting the environment go hand in hand.”

The Dockwalker Program educates boaters to be safe and environmentally sound while boating in California through its volunteer Dockwalkers. The volunteers are trained to conduct face-to-face boater education and distribute boater kits with educational information while visiting marinas, boat launch ramps, boat shows and events. Hours spent training or educating the public qualify as community service.

Marinas also benefit from the Dockwalker Program. Involvement in this program provides marinas with the educational materials and tools to operate a clean boating facility and minimize water quality impacts.

To become a volunteer, please contact the program coordinator, Vivian Matuk, at (415) 904-6905 or visit www.BoatingCleanandGreen.com for more details and to view the 2012 Dockwalker Training Schedule.

Partnerships with the Santa Monica Bay Restoration Foundation, the Keep the Delta Clean Program and many more organizations have made this program successful. Since the year 2000, more than 600 volunteers have become Dockwalkers and more than 90,000 boater kits have been distributed throughout California.

 

The Boating Clean and Green Program is an education and outreach program conducted through the California Department of Boating and Waterways and California Coastal Commission. The program promotes environmentally-sound boating practices to marine business and boaters.



01/18/2012

$1.25 Million in Grants for Boating Facilities Approved



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

January 18, 2012


 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) approved $1.25 million in grants for boating facilities.

Items approved include:

Glorietta Bay Boat Launching Facility – San Diego County
The Commission approved a $630,000 grant to the City of Coronado for improvements to the Glorietta Bay boat launching facility. The project will include installation of a new gangway, repair of the concrete boat launching ramp and the adjacent rock revetment, replacement of docks and piles, relocation of boat wash down area, resurfacing and restriping of parking lot, lighting of trash and recycling enclosure, and installation of a project credit sign.

Mayflower Park Boat Launching Facility – Riverside County
The Commission approved a $620,000 grant to the Riverside County Parks Department for improvements to the Mayflower Park boat launching facility. The project will include a 30-foot extension to the existing boat ramp, addition of a boarding float and of an ADA compliant walkway and related concrete paths, pavement improvements to the existing parking area, renovation of night lighting within the project area and landscape improvements.

 

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.



01/11/2012

Boating and Waterways Commission to Consider $1.25 Million in Grants for Boating Facilities Jan. 18



Contact:  Gloria Sandoval (916) 651-5692

January 11, 2012

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Boating and Waterways Commission (Commission) will meet Jan. 18 in Santa Barbara to consider $1.25 million in boat launching facility grants. The meeting is open to the public and will convene at 9:00 a.m. at the Harbor View Inn, 28 West Cabrillo Blvd.

Items being considered by the Commission include:

Glorietta Bay Boat Launching Facility – San Diego County
The Commission will consider approving a $630,000 grant to the City of Coronado for improvements to the Glorietta Bay boat launching facility. The proposed project includes installation of a new gangway, repair of the concrete boat launching ramp and the adjacent rock revetment, replacement of docks and piles, relocation of boat wash down area, resurfacing and restriping of parking lot, lighting of trash and recycling enclosure, and installation of a project credit sign.

Mayflower Park Boat Launching Facility – Riverside County
The Commission will consider approving a $620,000 grant to the Riverside County Parks Department for improvements to the Mayflower Park boat launching facility. The proposed project includes a 30-foot extension to the existing boat ramp, addition of a boarding float and of an ADA compliant walkway and related concrete paths, pavement improvements to the existing parking area, renovation of night lighting within the project area and landscape improvements.

A detailed agenda of the meeting and information on the Commission may be found at http://www.dbw.ca.gov/Commission/.

 

Grant and loan applications are submitted to the Department of Boating and Waterways and funding for approved projects is derived from the taxes paid by boaters on the purchase of vessel gasoline and the repayment of principal and interest on department-made loans.

The department provides grants to a county, city, district or other public agency for the construction of small craft boating launching facilities and loans to local agencies for the construction of small craft harbors. These grants and loans require the consent of the Boating and Waterways Commission.