The RIght Tool for the Job

In a joint iinitiative, NOAA and the EPA  promote a voluntary incentive based program known as the Clean Marina Program. After developing environmentally sound programs for fuel and waste management, marinas may apply to become recognized as environmental stewards. Once recognized, they are more likely to avoid EPA fines, sustain improved water quality and habitat for wildlife and customers, plus,they gain rights to the official clean marina logo and complimentary marketing under the Clean Marina byline.  It appears the federally legislated Clean Water Act of 1972 and revision of 1978 needed an updated approach which requires less administration and more active engagement by those in strategic locations to source pollution.

With all this green attention, it is really surprising to see what still washes up. Honestly, it's such a sin; the mess actually stirs recollections of the anti-pollution PSA of the 1970's featuring the crying American Indian.

And just when I thought a net might be in order, the cavalry arrived to save the day. 

How did I miss this invention? It's the closest thing to a street sweeper you'll find on the water. This device has big arms in front that essentially sweep the debris off the water surface, then collects and stores it. I'm presuming there is an environmentally sound endpoint for all that rubbish too.
Not perfect, but there was much less visible pollution in the post-sweep vs the pre-sweep view to our stern.

BTW, Seven Seas Cruising Association, at SSCA.org, for the last 60 years has embodied he tradition of leaving a clean wake long before it was fashionable. Actively respecting others and the shared environment is a most cherished attribute of the organization which warmly welcomes active cruisers and armchair sailors alike.The annual dues are an excellent value (check out the site), but the members are priceless.