Responsibility to the Environment

While the effect of a single boat on Canadian rivers, lakes, and coastal waters may seem insignificant, multiply that impact by the millions of boats on the waterways today. To preserve and protect the waters, wildlife, and aquatic vegetation enjoyed while boating, each person must be responsible.

• Keep the waterways clean and disease-free.
• If your pleasure craft is equipped with an installed toilet, do not discharge your sewage into the water. Empty the holding tanks only into pump-out stations.
• Don’t throw any litter overboard. Bring all trash (including cigarette butts) back on shore to dispose of properly.
• Do not discharge oily water overboard.
• Protect the shoreline from erosion, and preserve aquatic vegetation.
• Obey all speed limits, and watch your wake.
• Don’t operate in shallow water where your prop or pump intake can stir up bottom sediments and destroy aquatic plants.
• Report any pollution you see.
• Avoid using toxic substances.
• Don’t use toxic paints or other toxic products on your boat. Only use paints that are approved for marine use.
• When fueling, don’t top off the tank. Promptly mop up any fuel spills.
• Keep your bilge clean. Use bilge absorbents instead of detergents.
• Reduce the amount of detergent you use when cleaning your boat. Even biodegradable cleaners may harm aquatic plants and animals.