Leading up to, during, and following any of WVYC's Races or Regattas, our event organizers have joined the call of many to ensure that WVYC's racing events will have a minimal impact on our environment. This will include anything from keeping the site clear of debris, vessels equipped with heads respecting pump out regulations, reducing reliance on plastic bottles and cups, and recycling anything leftover.
Every choice and action can make a difference. Here are a few ways you can help during the races and on-shore events:
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Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – Eliminate disposable bottles by reusing a single one, and recycle anything that can’t be reused. Do not use plastic straws. Always use a hose end nozzle. At every opportunity, try to find a way to reduce your individual impact on the sea.
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Keep it Clean – Hold on to any trash or recycling until you can dispose of it properly. If you see any debris on shore or sea, pick it up and throw it away. (e.g., rigging tape, cigarette butts, bottles and cans)
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Rinse it Down – Clean your boat using water (no soap) during the event. Deck soaps contain phosphates and nitrates that can dramatically affect water quality, especially in a harbor full of regatta boats. The intent here is to keep Howe Sound Clean – remember “fish below”.
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Oil Spill Prevention – Motorized vessels shall carry and use at least one bilge sponge and one fueling spill pad.
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Pump it Out – If necessary, empty your holding tanks before traveling to the event. Retain waste onboard and respect discharge regulations for pleasure boats.
To find more information on environmentally friendly boating, and opportunities to see products that leave as little trace as possible, please visit:
http://www.georgiastrait.org
http://sailorsforthesea.org
Thank you for your help as we work together for a cleaner ocean.
Fair Winds, Sail Fast, Go Green