For Immediate Release: 2/13/2020

California Seeking Volunteers to Help Keep Waterways Clean

Contact:  
Adeline Yee   I   Information Officer   I   (916) 651-8725 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California’s Boating Clean and Green Program is looking for individuals to become Dockwalkers and help keep the state’s waterways clean. Dockwalkers raise awareness among the recreational boating community about clean boating practices by distributing educational boater kits at marinas, boat launch ramps and boating events.

Since 2000, more than a thousand Dockwalkers have taught over 20,000 boaters about oil, fuel, sewage, trash and marine debris prevention. California has one of the highest levels of recreational boating activity in the nation. With approximately four million motorized and non-motorized boaters, even a small amount of pollution per vessel can cause serious harm to waterways and marine wildlife.  

“We urge any water enthusiast who wants to make a difference in keeping our waterways clean to become a Dockwalker,” said Vivian Matuk, Boating Clean and Green Program Manager. “Educating the public on a one-on-one level can really make a difference for the health of our environment and boaters.” 

Anyone who is interested in this effective educational program can view our online Dockwalker videos to learn what we do and see our success stories. Individuals 15 years of age and older can become Dockwalkers by simply taking a free, three-hour training class. Training opportunities are available throughout the state from March through May 2020. Pre-registration is required. Participation in the program, including the training sessions qualify as community service.

Dockwalker trainings for this year are:

Northern California

  • Brisbane (Wednesday, March 11)
  • San Rafael (Saturday, April 4)
  • Vallejo (Saturday, April 11)
  • Sacramento (Saturday, May 2)
  • Fairfield (Monday, May 11)
  • San Pedro (Saturday, May 16)

Southern California

  • Newport Beach (Saturday, March 28)
  • San Diego (Saturday, April 25)
  • Oxnard (Friday, May 8)
  • Marina Del Rey (Saturday, May 9)

Marinas and yacht clubs are also encouraged to participate. Participating facilities receive educational materials and tools to operate a clean boating facility and minimize water quality impacts. This program provides marinas with points towards the Clean Marina Designation. Participation in the Dockwalker Program counts towards the nomination of the Club of the Year under the community service category. In addition, yacht clubs and marinas are essential in spreading awareness directly to boaters.

Partnerships with The Bay Foundation, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons, Save Our Shores, Lake Berryessa Partnership and many more organizations are integral to this program’s success.

The Dockwalker Program is part of California’s Boating Green and Clean Program. The program is an education and outreach program conducted through California State Parks and the California Coastal Commission. For more information, please visit BoatingCleanAndGreen.com.

Dockwalker

Photo by Dockwalker Civicorps

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California State Parks and the recreational programs supported by California Department of Parks and Recreation and its divisions of Boating and Waterways, Historic Preservation and Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation provide the opportunity for families, friends, and communities to connect. Off-highway motor vehicle recreation, boating activities, horseback riding, cycling, hiking, camping, rock climbing, tours, hikes, school group enrichment, and special events are just some of the activities enjoyed in 280 park units organized into 21 field districts throughout the state. Learn more at www.parks.ca.gov.

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