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WELLFLEET GREEN BOATING GUIDE

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Hazardous Waste: Solvents, gasoline, chemicals, and cleaning fluids can only be disposed

of on designated Hazardous Waste Days. The dates for 2025 will be posted in early spring.

 

Marine Debris: can be brought to the Marine Debris pile at the Wellfleet Transfer Station.

 

Winter Storage: Consider a custom-made canvas or synthetic cover for your boat. Canvas covers allow for adequate air circulation, which prevents mildew, plus they’re reusable, saving you money. The amount of shrink wrap needed to cover a 20-foot boat weighs approximately 25 pounds — the equivalent of 2,250 single-use plastic bags! If you must use plastic shrink wrap, please recycle it through the Boat Shrink Wrap Program at the Wellfleet Transfer Station.

 

Boat Cleaners: Eco-friendly DIY boat cleaners are more affordable, more environmentally friendly, and work as well as commercial cleaners. Recipes for simple cleaners are listed below. Please test them on a small area before using.

 

All-Purpose Cleaner: Add 1 cup of vinegar to a gallon of water. Use a brush or cloth to clean surfaces of dirt. Rinse with water.

 

Mildew Remover for Canvas or Cloth: Mix one part lemon juice and one part salt. Apply to mildew stains and scrub. Rinse with water. Dry items fully in the sun.

 

Life Jackets: Mix 1 cup of white vinegar in a gallon of water. Soak life jacket for 30 minutes and rinse with water.

 

There are several green boat cleaners available for purchase. Look for the EPA’s stamp “Design for the Environment” to be sure products will not cause damage. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, especially regarding dilution levels. Increasing the detergent-to-water ratio often does not improve cleaning power.

**Rinsing your boat with freshwater after every trip will go a long way in keeping your boat clean and can prolong the periods between using detergent products.

Sunscreen: Sunscreens wash off into the water when you swim. Some have chemicals that can harm marine wildlife. Look for sunscreens that are “reef-safe.” Consider wearing sun-protection clothing to reduce your need for sunscreen.

Green up your Galley: Choose cookware and kitchen items for your boat that are reusable. Try to avoid any plastic or single-use items.

More Green Tips: sailorsforthesea.org/programs-green-boating-guide

Stay up to date on information about hazardous waste collection dates, boat shrink wrap collection, & other green tips both on and off the water on Instagram @wellfleetrecycles.

1.2025

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