LATITUDE / JOHN
ONE PERMIT AT A TIME together, I expect copper concentrations in the water to fall by 50% or more once this legislation is fully implemented." But more laws raise an interesting conundrum. Laws protect the environment from our worst selves, but excessive laws also mire responsible people and businesses in excessive regulations. We're not sure what the right balance is, but we again advocate for streamlining laws whenever feasible. As a Boat Owner, What Can I Do? The challenges facing boatyards are vast, and the policy environment in which they operate is complicated, but there are a number of things that boat owners can do. First, when selecting a boatyard, have a conversation about their Best Management Practices. If you are doing your own work, adopt those practices as your own. Second, keep your boat clean and in good repair, and keep the bottom paint in good shape. New paint is more effective
The biggest culprits of Bay pollution tend to come from land, not boats or boatyards.
than older paint, and the effort required to keep the bottom clean is reduced when the paint is new. Third, make sure that the person diving your boat uses Best Management Practices when cleaning the bottom. The California Professional Divers Association has guidelines for bottom cleaning, and proper technique reduces the amount of copper being shed into the water.
Fourth, consider becoming a member of RBOC and BoatUS. RBOC has been a voice in the State Capitol for the interests of California recreational boaters for more than 50 years, and is considered one of the most effective state-level boating advocacy organizations in the United States. Likewise, BoatUS has a public affairs division that advocates for boaters at the national level. Finally, pay attention to development issues in your local community. Many of the towns and cities ringing the Bay have a long tradition in the maritime trades and industry, traditions that aren't necessarily important to non-boaters in the community. It is vitally important that we make our voices heard when land use issues are being considered. These are all small steps, but taken together, they can make a difference. We're not experts in acceptable parts per million for copper, but we know with certainty that everyone wants a clean Bay to sail on. john tuma
Gateway to the Bay & Delta
The North Bay’s Only Full-Service Marina! • • • •
Slips starting at $7.43 per foot! Concrete and wood docks Kayak storage space available Night security guard
(707) 648-4370 • Fax (707) 648-4660 42 Harbor Way • Vallejo, CA 94590 www.ci.vallejo.ca.us April, 2019 •
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