One of the best ways to experience everything our beaches and the Gulf of Mexico have to offer is via marine craft. Because of this, marinas are found all along the Gulf Coast. These marinas are a helpful tool for boaters, but are very vulnerable during catastrophic storms.

The Gulf of Mexico Alliance (GOMA) is a joint partnership of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas. The goal of this organization is to encourage collaboration on ways to enhance the health of the Gulf of Mexico. The Clean and Resilient Marina Initiative is to educate and empower marina owners with best practices for marina design as well as pre- and post-storm actions.

These state programs, while optional, provide incentives for marina owners supported by NOAA and other state agencies. Some of the best practices include addressing stormwater runoff management, proper wastewater and waste management, spill prevention, emergency preparedness, and sensitive species habitat protection. The goal is for these marinas to be resilient when dealing with catastrophic storms so they can prevent loss/damage and return to business as soon as possible.

Learn more about the initiative to ensure that your marina is storm ready.