Ecology of Marina Ecosystems

The recreational boating industry, with nearly 30,000 businesses, is a key component of the national economy. Boats and related products total more than $25 billion in annual retail sales and provide direct jobs for 550,000 workers nationwide. While such economic benefits are impressive, it is difficult to gauge what the future holds. Emerging factors such as port revitalization will enhance waterfront access and recreational boating, while fewer dredging dollars and increasing coastal development threaten the industry's viability. Rhode Island Sea Grant is working on marina and recreational boating issues and is incorporating ecological marina principles into special area management planning for the Metro Bay region.

• Sea Grant Marina and Boating Publications Search Page, provided by the National Sea Grant Library
• Programs and resources from government, industry, and other organizations regarding environmental and socioeconomic issues associated with marinas (non-Sea Grant) Excel worksheet
• Sea Grant's Role in Recreational Boating and Marina Issues survey results (pdf)
• Ecology of Marina Ecosystems Priorities Concept Paper (pdf)
• Ecology of Marinas Ecosystems Initiative October 2004 meeting agenda (pdf) and summary of results and participants (pdf)
• Advancing a Sea Grant Partnership with the Marine Trades Industry—Enhancing Recreational Boating and Aquatic Ecosystems (pdf)
• Ecology of Small Boat Marinas (pdf)
• Guide to Good Environmental Practices for Marinas in Mexico