Frequently Asked Questions
- How does the NJDEP regulate above ground storage tanks?
The NJDEP issues two permits related to fueling activities from above
ground storage tanks. A marina or boatyard must have a NJPDES stormwater
permit (N.J.A.C. 7:14A) to perform fueling activities of any kind (dispensed
from either aboveground or underground storage tanks), mechanical or
engine repair activities, or boat maintenance activities (sanding, scraping,
and power washing). An air permit (N.J.A.C. 7:27) is required if a marina
dispenses gasoline or other volatile fuel products from an aboveground
or underground storage tank greater than 2,000 gallons in volume.
A recommended best management practice (BMP) is the installation of
a double-walled or vaulted above ground fuel tank. For more details,
see page 19 of the Guidebook.
- How do I become a New Jersey Clean Marina?
It’s Easy! The comprehensive Guidebook contains information on the rules and regulations that apply to
marinas as well as a list of voluntary BMPs. Download a copy of
the Guidebook from this website or contact Mike Danko, NJMSC at
732-872-1300 ext 29 or via email mdanko@njseagrant.org or
njczm@dep.nj.gov at 609-984-0058 or for
a free printed and/or CD-ROM version of the Guidebook. Sign the
Clean Marina Pledge indicating that within one year you will identify
opportunities to implement the BMPs in the Guidebook and comply
with all regulations. Use the Self-assessment Checklist to evaluate
your facility and determine your Clean Marina score. If it’s
80% or above contact Mike Danko to schedule a Confirmation Visit
with members of the Clean Marina Committee.
- What are the benefits of becoming a Clean Marina?
Implementing the BMPs described in the Guidebook will enable you to generate new sources of revenue, reduce costs
associated with waste disposal, and attract customers that will
respect and follow good boating practices. You will be eligible
for free guidance and technical assistance through site visits and
at informational workshops. Your facility will receive recognition
on the official NJ Clean Marina website and in future Clean Marina
publications. Finally, you will experience the satisfaction of protecting
New Jersey’s waterways
and coastal resources.
- Is there information I can distribute to my tenants and
the boaters at my facility?
YES! Included in the Guidebook are
new and improved Clean Boating Tips Sheets. The topics covered include
Vessel
Cleaning and Maintenance, Petroleum Control, Vessel Sewage, and
Waste Containment and Disposal. The NJ Clean Marina CD-ROM contains
these tip sheets in Microsoft Word format. You can insert your marina’s
contact information and logo and print copies for distribution at
your facility.
- Is the NJ Clean Marina Program part of the Clean Vessel
Act Program?
No, the NJ Clean Marina Program is a separate program. For more information
on the CVA Program visit: www.njfishandwildlife.com/cvahome.htm
- I signed the pledge a year ago but
I’m not ready
for the Confirmation Visit. What should I do?
By signing the pledge you indicated that you
would identify opportunities and implement practices to control
pollution, enhance the surrounding environment, and encourage responsible
boating. As long as you have demonstrated this commitment and have
been making progress on these goals, your pledge can be extended.
Contact Mike Danko or njczm@dep.nj.gov and let them know that you are
still working toward certification. The members of the Clean Marina
Committee will be happy to work with you to complete the process.
You can also contact other marinas who have successfully implemented
the BMPs and have received Clean Marina certification. They may
have hints, ideas, and suggestions for your facility. Click on the “List
of Pledged and Certified Marinas” for
the complete list.
- How do I properly handle a gasoline spill at my facility to ensure safety and limit environmental damage?
This is a difficult question where often, the
answer is “it
depends.” The NJDEP has advised containing and removing (using
sorbent materials) a diesel fuel spill, regardless of the amount spilled
or weather conditions. It is NJDEP’s policy that a “small” gasoline
spill at a large/major facility should NOT be boomed as the threat
of fire is greater that the threat to the environment. Practically
speaking, a spill of a small amount of gasoline at a facility like
a marina will most likely dissipate before any containment device
or material can be deployed. Discharge of a large amount of gasoline
can be contained, but with very stringent fire safety precautions
in place. (The first step, of course, is to find the source and immediately
cut it off.) The local fire department should be called and vapor
suppressant foam used on the contained fuel. The marina should be
closed immediately and all ignition sources shut down. A clean up
contractor should be contacted and brought in to remove the gasoline.
The material Safety Data Sheet (MSDA) for regular unleaded gasoline
offers additional helpful information and advice. Remember that gasoline
spills emit flammable vapors so approach a spill from upwind if possible.
Make every attempt to avoid breathing emitted vapors.
If you use sorbent pads to clean up a gasoline
spill, they must be disposed of as EPA "IGNITABLE HAZARDOUS WASTE." Contact
an approved treatment transporter/waster hauler. All used pads should
be kept away from heat/sparks/open flame. Avoid contact with skin
and eyes. The pads can be kept in a container approved for hazardous
and flammable materials until they are collected by your waste hauler/transporter.
Keep the container properly closed and plainly labeled.
Every effort should be made to prevent the spill from occurring in
the first place by strictly adhering to maintenance of equipment and
safety protocols at the marina.
Anytime and oil, diesel, or gasoline spill
occurs you should call the National Response Center (800) 424-8802
and the NJDEP’s
Discharge Response Unit (877) WARN DEP (927-6337) immediately.
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