Kevin Holsten, manager of SkipperBud’s Oshkosh Marina, holding his new certified Wisconsin Clean Marina sign.
SkipperBud’s Oshkosh Marina has received a Wisconsin Clean Marina designation from Wisconsin Sea Grant and its partners for the marina’s efforts to prevent pollution and protect fish, wildlife, and public health.
Wisconsin’s Clean Marina Program launched in 2010 to promote clean and safe waterways for the state’s marine industry through best practices while meeting state and federal pollution and safety laws. There are 26 marinas currently certified, and this is the fourth SkipperBud’s to receive certification.
“SkipperBud’s Oshkosh Marina implemented a number of changes, including clean fueling practices, posting signage on best boater practices, and installing a boat-washing area,” said Theresa Qualls, Wisconsin Clean Marina Program coordinator.
SkipperBud’s Oshkosh Marina is a full-service marina on Lake Butte des Morts, which is part of the Winnebago Pool (a group of interconnected lakes) and connected to Lake Winnebago by the Fox River. Many boaters double as anglers due to the lake’s impressive walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike populations. The lake is also home to many native wetland plants like American lotus and wild rice, which provide food for wildlife and improve water quality.
Protecting this special region is just one of many reasons SkipperBud’s team wanted to become a Clean Marina. “We are committed to keeping Wisconsin waters free of pollution, and following sustainable practices is one way to ensure that,” said Marina Manager Kevin Holsten.
After having recently gone through the same process, John Swise, the manager of SkipperBud’s Madison Marina, assisted the Oshkosh team, helping to guide them toward their own certification.
“Working with both Kevin and John was so encouraging to see how two marinas can work together to achieve the common goal of environmental sustainability,” said Qualls.
Marinas and related industries contribute more than $2.7 billion to Wisconsin’s economy. The Wisconsin Clean Marina Program is administered by the University of Wisconsin Sea Grant Program in partnership with the Wisconsin Marine Association, Wisconsin Coastal Management Program, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Fund for Lake Michigan.
For more information:
Theresa Qualls, Wisconsin Clean Marina Program, (920) 465-5031, quallst@uwgb.edu