03/06/2018
Greetings from the West River. On Friday, we experienced extraordinary winds that challenged every piece of exposed canvas and attempted to rearrange a few dinghies. The facility survived quite well, and there was little boat damage. The staff was out on the docks most of the day to secure anything that needed attention. Winter does pose challenges, and we try to be as prepared as possible. The bitter cold in January left us with no heat in two buildings and no water in one for a while. Needless to say, HYH is craving some warmer temperatures.
HYH has been a designated Clean Marina since 2010, and has renewed our pledge every three years. Clean marinas take the steps necessary to follow environmental rules, and encourage others to keep the environment in mind during any boating activity.
A closed powerwash recycle system was installed at HYH in 2014 and we pledge to collect all of the powerwash water to prevent Bay pollution. We collect used oil, oily water, antifreeze, and gas for proper disposal. We hold staff training meetings to be educated on prompt spill response plans. To minimize stormwater runoff, we install plantings and make improvements to drainage. It's important for facilities performing boat repair to practice environmentally sound techniques such as using dustless sanders and properly disposing of used supplies. HYH is conscientious about using the best practices when servicing boats.
As a responsible boat owner, please try to consider the following suggestions:
-Contain trash and recycle whenever possible. HYH provides recycle bins at two locations on the property, and provides a place to dispose of oily bilge water, gasoline, and antifreeze.
-Fuel carefully at the local fuel docks, and avoid "topping off". Report fuel spills to the U. S. Coast Guard at 800-424-8802.
-Keep the bilge of the boat as clean as possible and never discharge bilge water with a sheen - it is illegal. Place oil absorbent pads under inboard engines, and dispose of soiled pads properly.
-When cleaning the decks, use detergents sparingly and use phosphate-free, biodegradable and non-toxic cleaners as much as possible. Spot clean stains and wipe off harsh cleaners rather than hosing them overboard.
-Keep the boat waxed - a good coat of wax seals out dirt.
-Select bottom paints carefully and never clean soft or ablative paints in the water.
-Discharging raw sewage is illegal within 3 miles of the U. S. coast. Pumpout options at HYH include the A Dock pumpout station, and Monday pumpouts at your slip.
It is the responsibility of all of us to be stewards of the environment. Please remember this when enjoying your boat.
HYH has some Clean Boating tip cards in the office for anyone interested in doing the right thing for our precious natural resource, the Chesapeake Bay. Please feel free to stop in the office for more information.
