BoatUS Foundation Opens Grant Program for $7.5M Effort to Remove Abandoned and Derelict Vessels (ADVs) from Nation’s Waterways

From June 10-August 12, organizations are invited to apply for grant funding to clean up their local waterways

WHAT:
In a nationwide effort to remove abandoned and neglected boats from our nation’s waterways, the Boat Owners Association of the United States (BoatUS) Foundation is seeking qualified, diverse and experienced organizations to submit projects for funding. The massive cleanup effort to remove abandoned and derelict vessels (ADV) in U.S. coastal waterways and the Great Lakes is fueled by a four-year, $10 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program with funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

BoatUS Foundation Opens Grant Program
for $7.5M Effort to Remove Abandoned and Derelict Vessels (ADVs)
 from Nation’s Waterways
An overturned fishing trawler lays on its side while TowBoatUS and the US Coast Guard oversee salvage operations. (BoatUS Foundation)

Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of intent between June 10 and August 12.  

ADVs litter ports, waterways and estuaries all over the country and can cause major problems. These boats can crush or smother sensitive plants and corals, sink or move during coastal storms, threaten safe navigation and contribute to economic losses. Removing ADVs is a costly effort, often averaging more than $24,000 to remove a single boat. For many communities, there may be no local funding for removal of vessels, and navigating complicated funding programs can be challenging for communities with limited time or resources. This is why the BoatUS Foundation grant program is so important.

“We’re excited about building upon our years of experience with ADV removals,” said BoatUS Foundation Director of Outreach and Grant Program Director, Alanna Keating. “This is a unique program that is open to any organization, nonprofit or for-profit, as well as local, state, territorial, tribal, and regional government agencies. Some of our focus will be seeking underserved or marginalized communities that don’t have the local resources to rid their shores of abandoned and derelict vessels.”

“Abandoned and derelict vessels are a widespread problem across the United States,” said Nancy Wallace, Director of the NOAA Marine Debris Program. “We are pleased to partner with the BoatUS Foundation to maximize our impact, while reducing the accumulation of costly and damaging debris in our ports, waterways, and coasts.”

WHY:
The goal of the BoatUS Foundation program is to improve U.S. coastal and Great Lakes waters affected by ADVs and create a first-of-its-kind national online database to track ADV location and removal efforts. By removing the associated pollution, navigation and safety hazards ADVs can cause in waters for years, the 20-75 awardees of this grant program will have a lasting, positive impact on the environment and our waters locally and nationally for years to come.

HOW:
Organizations are invited to apply for ADV removal funds by submitting a letter of intent that answers the following questions:

  • Body of water from which the debris will be removed
  • The purpose of the project and the planned steps to complete it
  • Anticipated outcomes of the project on the environment and the community
  • How diversity, equity, justice and inclusion will be part of the project
  • Project budget and expenses to be covered by the grant funding
  • Authorizations and/or permits needed to complete the work

Priority will be given to projects that include input from and benefit tribal, underserved, or low-income communities; demonstrate strong community support; benefit marine animals and their habitats, local coastal communities, and/or local economies; and include local outreach and education activities directed toward the boating community and general public to prevent abandoned and derelict vessels. View past large scale debris marine removal video.

More information on how to apply and grant guidelines can be found here. Additional non-press calls regarding grant applications: Email: cleanwater@boatus.com; Phone: 800-245-2628.

“We’re thrilled to see this first-of-its-kind national online database to track ADV location and removal efforts and applaud the BoatUS Foundation’s effort to address ADVs,” said Mike Sayre, MRAA Director of Government Relations. “Removing these safety hazards along with their associated pollution improves the environment and makes boating safer for all boaters.”

About the BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water:
BoatUS Foundation is leading a nationally competitive grant program for the removal of abandoned and derelict vessels throughout coastal and marine areas of the United States, including the Great Lakes, U.S. territories, and Freely Associated States. This project is supported by the NOAA Marine Debris Program with funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. In an effort to help educate and prevent future ADVs, the Foundation will also create a national ADV database to track the scope of the challenge and measure success, document ADV prevention and removal activities to share with the public, and support a national dialogue and education efforts on boating-related debris removal, with an added focus on how ADVs impact waters in underserved communities. Learn more about the Marine Debris Program by visiting marinedebris.noaa.gov.  

8 Steps for Improving at Boat Buying

There’s no doubt you want your customers to buy more boats. First, it will improve your dealership’s inventory levels and, in turn, help you gain more space in your showroom. Secondly, it will help you hone your boat-buying plan for 2025 vessels. But it can feel downright nerve wracking to focus on your dealership’s strategic boat-buying when you’re faced with an inventory surplus in a soft market highlighted by indecisive customers who sit on the fence awaiting more favorable times to make a purchase.

You must maintain your objective and that is to optimize your inventory and ensure your profitability. Perhaps you need to consider Plan B in your scenario plan and make some adjustments.

Here are eight steps to help you improve at boat buying.

1. Build Your Sales Forecast
To help you make sound purchasing and stocking decisions, begin with a realistic sales forecast that includes categories and months. This will give you a better understanding of category demands and slow-moving inventory and help you align your buying to meet market demands. Tip: Remember to include any discounts provided to you by the manufacturers that may have contributed this year vs. previous years.

MRAA Members can revisit the MRAA Ask the Expert webinar “The Dynamics of Evolving Inventory Conditions” with Chad Lyon, Managing Director – Marine & RV Wells Fargo Distribution Finance, on MRAATraining.com.

2. Know Your Inventory Costs
Managing your budget effectively and reducing avoidable costs is critical to your success. Work closely with your sales team to create projected inventory level estimates and floorplan interest expenses. Ideally, compare this to your similar selling seasons — not the Pandemic period — and the marine industry averages to gain perspective of where you currently stand. 

3. Get Good at Inventory Management
It seems obvious, but you must track your inventory’s age and turnover rates. You do this by buttoning up your inventory management efforts and creating a clear system for your team to use and understand. It helps you know and identify the age of units, your average inventory weeks on hand and your inventory turns by make and model. Knowing when boats sell week-to-week or month by month helps you identify peaks, valleys and a misaligned trajectory. Tip: Focus on sales not your close to avoid boosting the wrong month(s). This critical data can help guide your decision-making efforts. 

4. Analyze Past Performance
Point No. 2 mentioned this, but your team needs to compare your current inventory levels with your dealership’s prior performance. You need to dig into all your previous years and certain periods to comprehend your inventory levels, seeking comparable data. Knowing your numbers here will help you gain insight into current inventory levels and help you adjust your planning. Remember to look for equivalent seasons/months and not necessarily the outliers when the market sees drastic changes (e.g.: 2008-2009, 2020-2021).

5. Incentivize Your Sales Team
Providing your sales team with incentives has proven to help move inventory. Be sure to include performance incentives for moving certain boats or when units move within a shorter time frame. Reinvesting in sales training can also help brush off any dust, encourage growth and offer motivation.

6. Be Able to Identify Your Customers
Marine industry expert David Parker identified four types of buyers in his blog, “4 Tips to Help Your Dealership Manage Inventory.” They are Bargain Buyers, Early Adopters, Smart Buyers and Impulse Buyers. Dissecting your CRM will help you better understand your customers by flagging their buyer types and preferences. Having this information in hand will influence your purchasing strategies.

7. Manage Aging Inventory
Some dealers have commented that they feel they are giving away everything to get a sale. But for your aging units, you need to set a comfortable margin (or range) and grant your sales team the ability to work down. Leverage your marketing efforts by exploring nontraditional methods to help move aging vessels. Ideally, you want to engage your existing customers and attract new ones. Inventory management includes approaching lenders about the potential for reducing aging unit costs while you’re working tirelessly to move them. Tip: Place your aging boats up front (potentially mixed with newest models), clearly identifying them and their featured deep discount prices to draw attention!

8. Leverage Industry Insights
Immersing yourself in industry trends and data is critical for your success. Reach out to your floor plan lenders to better understand inventory levels throughout the industry and for a historical perspective. Communicate early and often with your manufacturer reps, too, sharing your concerns and desires to potentially adjust your orders downward from previous years. That way you can meet each other’s expectations and find common ground. Trust your data and industry numbers more than you do opinion. You want to make sound decisions and avoid being influenced by the wrong inputs.

8 steps to improve at boat buying -MRAA Spotlight blog
MRAA Spotlight Series

A Proactive Approach to Boat Buying
Ultimately, you want to set up your dealership for success and to outlast a softer market. Installing inventory management tactics and strategies will help you align your product purchases with the current conditions. Your proactive effort combined with scenario planning can help you remain flexible in your boat-buying approach.


Need more strategies, visit the MRAA Spotlight page: Boat Buying Strategies for 2025.


[AIMIE, MRAA’s AI for Marine Industry Education and content delivery system, was a resource in this content production. Learn more.]

MRAA Adds 4 New Partner Members in May

MINNEAPOLIS, June 3, 2024 — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announces the addition of Blue Ocean Media House, Burnewiin, Chubb, and XO Boats Oy as new Partner Members.

MRAA Welcomes New Partner Members

Marine manufacturers, suppliers and service providers, through Partner Membership, commit to aligning their brands with the programs and opportunities that MRAA offers in its efforts to fuel the success of the marine industry. Support from Partners allows the Association to expand its offerings and create a positive, long-term impact on MRAA members’ business.

  • Blue Ocean Media House (Winter Garden, Fla.) is a leading progressive digital advertising firm dedicated to creating your opportunity with ever-evolving marketing plans custom made to fit your objectives.
  • Burnewiin (White Salmon, Wash.) manufactures premium marine mounts and accessories that allow you to maximize the usability of your boat.
  • Chubb (Jersey City, N.J.) provides exceptional boat insurance with tailored protection, competitive rates and valuable features to protect both boat owners and their vessels.
  • XO Boats (Helsinki, Finland) uses military-grade aluminum from the rough north to design its durable aluminum boats featuring a deep V-shape hull.

“These four new collaborations will bring cutting-edge expertise and innovative solutions, significantly boosting our capacity to support and advance the marine industry,” says Allison Gruhn, MRAA Vice President of Business Development. “It’s exciting to welcome aboard our new Partners Members that respectively represent Finland and three U.S. regions in the Pacific Northwest, the Mid-Atlantic and the Southeast.”

Dealer members are encouraged to explore the list of companies that actively support the MRAA across four partnership levels. View the complete list.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Centurion & Supreme to Host 2025 Dealer Meeting at Dealer Week

MINNEAPOLIS, June 3, 2024 – The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) announced today that Centurion & Supreme Boats will co-locate their dealer meeting at the 2024 Dealer Week Conference and Expo in Orlando, Fla. This is the second year in a row the brands will be hosting their dealer meeting with Dealer Week, after a successful model-year 2024 meeting in Tampa in 2023.

Centurion and Supreme to Host 2025 Dealer Meeting at Dealer Week

“Having Centurion & Supreme host their model-year 2025 dealer meetings at our annual conference is a big win for both boat brands and their dealers,” said Liz Keener, Director of Dealer Development, MRAA. “By selecting Dealer Week, their dealers learn about new models, address business tactics and receive world-class education and best practices at one location.”

Centurion & Supreme will introduce marine retailers to its 2025 lineup at its private event, December 6-8, before the start of the MRAA conference, which runs December 8-11. Attending dealers are invited to remain in Orlando to participate in all Dealer Week activities and learning.

“We are looking forward to hosting our annual dealer meeting in conjunction with MRAA’s Dealer Week again this year,” explained Daniel Indelicato, Centurion & Supreme Boats President.  “The positive benefits for our dealers are invaluable. They not only learn firsthand about our products, they also have access to top-notch industry focused education, the opportunity to visit over 100 exhibitors, and the ability to network with industry professionals. They get two educational trips in one, maximizing their time and effectiveness.”

Florida-based Correct Craft, which operates globally and will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, is the parent company of Centurion & Supreme. Correct Craft, a Dealer Week 2024 Exhibitor, is one of 12 MRAA Strategic Partners committed to fueling the MRAA’s mission to strengthen dealers and contribute to both dealer success and the success of the marine industry.

“The first co-located dealer meeting was at Dealer Week 2022 in Austin, Texas,” explained Keener. “For the first time in history last year, two dealer events were hosted in conjunction with our conference, including the Centurion & Supreme meeting. Their commitment to return confirms that Dealer Week offers an unmatched experience, highlighted by its valuable education programming and business opportunities.”

In 2023, 80 Centurion & Supreme dealership personnel stayed beyond their dealer meeting for Dealer Week, introducing 18 dealerships to the world-class education at the event for the first time. To learn more about co-hosting your dealer meeting at Dealer Week, email Liz Keener. See the current list of Dealer Week 2024 exhibitors.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

MRAA Unveils New Legislative Tracker Made Possible by Diamond Ambassador Members

WASHINGTON, D.C., June 17, 2024 – The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas unveils a new legislative tracker, made possible by the support of MRAA’s Diamond Ambassadors. This innovative tool highlights legislation the MRAA is tracking and advocating for or against on behalf of the marine industry. This new addition to the website provides MRAA members the ability to take a deep dive into the legislative priorities of the MRAA and see, firsthand, how the MRAA is working to support their businesses and the overall recreational boating industry.

MRAA Unveils Legislative Tracker with Diamond Ambassador Support

The legislative tracker, located at mraa.com/bill-tracking, is powered by public affairs software Quorum. The tracker is divided into state and federal legislation, with the state tracker featuring a map to allow members to view what the MRAA is tracking in their state. The tool also allows members to filter and sort state and federal legislation by topic, position and status. The MRAA made the investment in this new software with the support of our Diamond Ambassador Members, including MarineMax who was both an inaugural Diamond Member in 2023 and has signed on again for 2024. Diamond Ambassador Members at MRAA fuel advocacy work and the Government Relations team. (Learn more about becoming a Diamond Ambassador Member here.)

“We’re thrilled to be able to give MRAA members a clearer view into the day-to-day work that MRAA’s advocacy team does to support our members and the industry overall,” says Mike Sayre, MRAA Director of Government Relations. “In addition to this new resource, Quorum allows us to find, review, and take positions on more legislation and regulatory actions around the country and at the federal level faster and more efficiently than before, helping to keep our members informed on the issues that matter to them.”

Since integrating Quorum into the the Government Relations Team workflow, MRAA has honed its ability to track and analyze legislation and regulations that may negatively impact marine retailers. This proactive approach allows the team to engage with lawmakers early in the process, addressing potential impacts on marine retailers before they become critical issues. Additionally, Quorum’s ability to monitor social media, news and other relevant sources provides the team with a thorough understanding of the political landscape.

“Quorum has made it easier to identify and track legislation, allowing MRAA to proactively protect marine retailers from harmful policies at both state and federal levels. Each day, we use Quorum alerts to stay ahead of any legislative or regulatory proposals that could negatively impact our members,” says Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “Every morning is spent checking alerts generated by Quorum to ensure that we are on top of any and all legislative or regulatory proposals that may negatively impact your business.”

The MRAA’s Government Relations Team adoption of Quorum was only made possible through our Diamond Ambassador Members, whose dues directly support our organizations government relations work. We cannot thank our Diamond Ambassador Members enough for their support. Without them we would not have the ability to take our advocacy work to next level. It is no secret that our Diamond Ambassador Members believe in the importance of advocacy for marine retailers, and the MRAA Government Relations Team is dedicated to fighting for the health of your business day in and day out. If you are interested in becoming a Diamond Ambassador Member and want to help fuel the MRAA’s advocacy please reach out to Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager or click here to learn more.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

About Quorum
Quorum is public affairs software that helps users work smarter and move faster. Thousands of public affairs professionals use Quorum for their work in Congress, all 50 state legislatures, major U.S. cities, the European Union, and several additional countries. Quorum works with corporations, trade associations, and nonprofits such as Toyota, Walmart, Uber, the Sierra Club, the Alzheimer’s Association, and the Air Force. Founded in 2014, Quorum is headquartered in Washington, D.C. with an international office in Brussels. 

MasterCraft Boat Company Increases Support to the MRAA Through Platinum Partner Membership

MINNEAPOLIS — The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas announces that MasterCraft Boat Company, a previously existing Standard Partner of the MRAA, has stepped up its commitment this year to Platinum Partner Membership.

Through Platinum Partner Membership, MasterCraft provides significant support for the association while receiving increased marketing exposure, Dealer Week benefits, and the opportunity to contribute educational content. Commitments from Platinum Partners like MasterCraft allows the MRAA to create world-class education and programs for the marine dealer body.

Since 1968, MasterCraft has hand-built its legacy as a pioneer of performance, comfort, quality and innovation. Over the last 55 years, MasterCraft has grown to become the most award-winning towboat manufacturer in the world. But more than awards and accolades, MasterCraft’s passion year after year has been driven by the desire to provide customers with the best experience on the water. With the most extensive lineup in the towboat segment – every boat built is a reflection of MasterCraft’s legacy, and its commitment to precision and progression.

“Having a long-standing Partner and supporter of the MRAA upgrade to the Platinum level is exciting,” says Allison Gruhn, MRAA Vice President of Business Development. “With a legacy of innovation and excellence, MasterCraft’s partnership strengthens our mission to advance the marine industry.”

“This strategic partnership underscores our commitment to supporting both the marine industry and our valued dealer network,” said Greg Miller, MasterCraft VP of Global Sales. “At MasterCraft, we share a steadfast dedication to excellence and a passion for fostering the boating lifestyle. Through this enhanced collaboration with MRAA, we look forward to further championing the growth of our industry, ensuring exceptional on-water experiences for boaters nationwide.”

About MasterCraft Boat Company
MasterCraft is a world-renowned innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of premium performance sport boats. Founded in 1968, MasterCraft has cultivated its iconic brand image through a rich history of industry-leading innovation, and more than five decades after the original MasterCraft made its debut, the company’s goal remains the same – to continue building the world’s best ski, wakeboard, wake surf, and luxury performance tow boats. For more information, visit: www.mastercraft.com.   

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

Where Are They Now? Patrick Green

• Catching up with 2018 Kevin Lodder Scholarship recipient Patrick Green, General Manager, Tobler Marina

Patrick Green, General Manager at Tobler Marina, believes in legacies, caring for people and rapid response. In fact, for this scholarship check-in, he took action and answered within an hour after he received the request. Green, a 2018 Kevin Lodder Scholarship recipient who was recently added to the MRAA Educational Foundation Board, views himself as a student of the marine industry.

Where Are They Now? Patrick Green
Patrick Green, General Manager, Tobler Marina

Q: You have worked at three dealerships since you started in the industry as a teenager. What changes have you seen firsthand in the last 20 years?

Green: A lot of changes with the manufacturers. I’ve always heard about brands going through cycles, but it’s been cool to see it firsthand. You never know who’s coming out with the next big thing, and what brands will squander in the face of change. This goes for the dealers as well. The competitive nature of new models, new products, etc. Lots of technology is being implemented in the dealer space. This is a double-edged sword, in many cases, and can create inefficiencies when dealers succumb to the data-driven systems and lose sight of the people.

Q: You have served as GM at Tobler Marina since 2020, will you describe your typical business day?

Green: My typical day is all over the place, working on landscape projects, customer issues, boat deals, marketing and staffing. Sometimes it’s hard to remember I work with boats! We’ve added roughly 15 employees in the last two years, which is always a challenge to manage and implement new concepts.

Q: Can you reflect on the Spader Total Management 1 Workshop and how it helped you improve in your role at Tobler Marina?

Green: Spader Total Management 1 was a heavy week. I felt like a boomer trying to learn how to use the internet for the first time. After coming back to the dealership, we reviewed the best practices and I still use the 1 Dollar chip daily. Integrating the best practices, we were able to continue to fine-tune existing concepts at a deeper level. This encroached into pay plans, margins, work schedules, etc. It also helped me take the next step through 20 groups and in telling the “story” when it comes to numbers.

Q: How has it influenced your decision-making?

Green: I think anything Spader-based is going to influence decision-making. Often folks will mistakenly take the reactionary standpoint when decisions need to be made. Total Management 1 helps format what’s important at the end of the day, and it really comes down to the people. Anyone can put a bunch of numbers in a box, and say this is how it has to be, but if you don’t support the people, you’ll never get there.

Q: How did the Spader Total Management 1 Workshop and training help you when Seattle Boat Company purchases Tobler Marina late in 2023?

Green: It gave me confidence in our team and our ability to navigate change. An acquisition is never easy, and focusing on fundamentals is all you can rely on. We have changed a lot in the eight months, but those fundamentals are what help drive the ship forward.

Q: You’re a part of the Pacific Northwest marine history as Tobler Marina dates back to the late 1940s. How are you committed to using your training and passion to continue that legacy?

Green: Legacy has always been big for me. It was important for me to find a space that supported a sense of it. I found that at Tobler. Tobler has been unique, as it’s a brand that has changed hands over the years but has been able to retain its identity in the Pacific Northwest for many years. My commitment and what I preach is to live up to that brand and represent it as though it were your own. We do this through our values and people. If you can’t live up to your values, then you’ve got nothing to stand on. We train for this every day.

Where are they now? Patrick Green
Patrick Green has seen many personal and professional changes in the last five years, but says he looks forward to continuing to find the path to a sustainable career in the boating industry.

Q: In your experience, a dealership’s efficiency is a critical element in its success, so what tactics have you used from the workshop training to keep yourself and your team on task despite the persisting challenges in the industry?

Green: Support and support roles are huge. Identifying the holes when you get to “read the story” from the data. We did an exercise at our first planning activity this past fall with the new crew from Seattle Boat Company, where we broke down a deck of cards into suits. We used a few different scenarios using more people, less people, talking, no talking, etc. Activities such as this help communicate efficiency to the whole team. It’s one thing if the management team understands efficiency, it’s another thing if the whole staff can “get it.” Creating these senses of urgency is critical and has a lasting impact on the operation as a whole.

Q: What are some reasons why you’re thankful Tobler Marina presented you with the opportunity for the Kevin Lodder Scholarship?

Green: The scholarship was ironically one of the reasons I chose to work at Tobler. Reading through the lines and creating opportunities for oneself is tricky. But understanding where you sit, and how you’re going to get where you want to be, is critical for momentum in any career. It’s easy for folks to get caught up in an environment that doesn’t support training, progression and growth. Moving to Tobler opened the door for me to do those things and, ultimately, the scholarship. I always find it funny when people consider themselves experts in their situations and carry the attitude “been there, done that.” They are usually the ones who end up stagnant and missing out. One of my favorite quotes is, “If you are not willing to learn, no one can help you. If you are determined to learn, no one can stop you.”

Q: Why is it vital for marine retailers to nominate or apply for the MRAA Educational Foundation Scholarships?

Green: I’ve always heard the statement, “What if we train this person and they leave?” Well, what if we don’t train this person and they stay? The scholarships are FREE MONEY! — free education and free training. Why wouldn’t you try to take advantage of that? As an owner of a dealership, don’t you want employees who have the drive to learn more? It always surprises me when I hear of dealer principals/owners who discredit the educational opportunities that are available to their staff. So often these leaders seek control rather than opportunity. It’s vital to your own success!

Q: Business aside, what has changed for you over the last five years?

Green: I got married, had a kid and turned 35. I think the biggest change has been adapting to change and becoming a student of the marine industry. Learning more about myself and my motivations. I think prior to this I was always along for the boat ride, but now I’m looking forward to continuing to “read between the lines” and finding the path to a sustainable career in the boating industry.

2023 United States Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics Report: A Comprehensive Overview

By Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager

On Friday, May 24, 2024, the United States Coast Guard released its annual Recreational Boating Statistics report for 2023, marking the 65th edition of this comprehensive analysis. This report is a vital resource for understanding the current state of recreational boating in the United States, providing detailed insights into accident statistics, casualty reporting and vessel registration.

Overall, 2023 represented a decrease in both the number of accidents and fatalities, resulting in 564 total boating fatalities, the lowest number of fatalities since 2013, which reported 560. Here, we will break down the key findings and what they mean for the recreational boating community while highlighting the crucial role that recreational boating safety plays in supporting the growth of our industry.

2023 United States Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics Report: A Comprehensive Overview

The 2023 Recreational Boating Statistics report reveals trends that highlight both progress and areas needing improvement in recreational boating safety. The Coast Guard, along with state and territorial partners, compiled and analyzed this data to offer a clear picture of boating activities and safety outcomes over the past year.

  • Accident Statistics and Causes:
    • In 2023, there were 3,844 boating accidents, resulting in 564 deaths and 2,126 injuries as well as $63 million in property damage. This represents a slight decrease of 4.9% in accidents and 11.3% in fatalities compared to 2022.
    • The leading causes of boating accidents continue to be operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, and excessive speed. Alcohol use remains the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, accounting for 17% of deaths.
  • Life Jacket Usage and Drowning:
    • Detailed casualty reporting has shown that drowning was the cause of death in 75% of all fatalities, with 87% of those victims not wearing a life jacket. This drives home the importance of the National Safe Boating Council’s “Wear It” campaign to promote the use of life jackets.
  • Importance of Boater Education
    • Where instruction was known, 75% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator did not receive boating safety instruction. Only 15% percent of deaths occurred on vessels where the operator had received a nationally-approved boating safety education certificate.

MRAA’s Efforts to Support Recreational Boating Safety
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA), we are not only committed to ensuring marine dealers have the tools to improve and bolster their business, we are also dedicated to enhancing the safety and enjoyment of recreational boating. Our initiatives focus on education, safety advocacy, and collaboration with industry partners to promote best practices and safety standards. We know that a safe and competent boater is a confident boater who gets more out of boating, goes boating more often, and will more likely remain a lifelong boater than an unsafe boater.

The MRAA actively engages with policymakers and regulatory bodies to advocate for laws and regulations that enhance boating safety. This includes supporting common-sense boating safety policies like mandatory boater education, and best-practices for various recreational boating activities like wake-surfing and water-skiing. The MRAA government relations team works tirelessly to ensure that the interests of the marine retailer’s community are represented in these discussions. To learn about our efforts to make boating safer in Arizona this year, click here.

2023 United States Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics Report: A Comprehensive Overview

Furthermore, the MRAA collaborates with industry stakeholders to launch safety campaigns aimed at raising awareness about key safety issues. Our campaigns focus on promoting sober boating, life jacket usage, and the importance of being prepared for emergencies. One of our key partnerships is with the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC), a coalition dedicated to promoting safe and enjoyable boating through education, outreach, and training. Just last year, Government Relations Manager Chad Tokowicz was appointed to the NSBC Board of Directors. Together, the MRAA and NSBC work on various initiatives, including:

  • Wear It Campaign: This campaign promotes the use of life jackets by highlighting their importance and encouraging boaters to wear them at all times while on the water.
  • National Safe Boating Week: An annual event that kicks off the boating season with a focus on safety tips, education, and awareness activities. The MRAA supports this initiative by distributing materials and promoting events through our network.

Lastly, the International Boating and Water Safety Summit (IBWSS) is another opportunity for the MRAA to focus on the importance of recreational boating safety. This summit brings together boating and water safety professionals from around the world to share knowledge, best practices, and advancements in safety protocols. Our involvement includes:

  • Workshops and Presentations: MRAA representatives participate in and lead various workshops and presentations, sharing insights on industry trends, safety innovations, and effective educational strategies.
  • Networking and Collaboration: The summit provides an opportunity for us to network with other safety advocates, researchers, and industry leaders, fostering collaborations that enhance our collective efforts in promoting boating safety.

For a more comprehensive overview of our involvement at the IBWSS 2024, click here.

The 2023 Recreational Boating Statistics report is a crucial document for all stakeholders in the boating community, from policymakers and safety advocates to boat owners and operators. While the report shows some positive trends, such as a reduction in the fatality rate, it also highlights ongoing challenges, particularly in the areas of operator behavior and life jacket usage. It is imperative that everyone in the recreational boating industry understand that it is our duty to do what we can to keep others safe while on the water. No effort to inspire safe boating practices is too small, as we will ultimately improve safe recreational boating not with a silver bullet, but with silver buckshot.

By continuing to prioritize safety education and awareness, and through the combined efforts of organizations like the MRAA, the Coast Guard, and our partners like the National Safe Boating Council, we can work towards making recreational boating a safer and more enjoyable activity for everyone.

2023 United States Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics Report: A Comprehensive Overview - Boat Responsibly

For more detailed information and to access the full report, visit the Coast Guard’s Boating Safety Division website. Should you have any questions, or want ideas on how you can be a champion for safe boating safety at your business, reach out to Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager, Chad@mraa.com.

Representative Cook Named Arizona State Legislator of the Year

MRAA and National Marine Manufacturers Association present Representative Cook with prestigious marine advocacy award for his dedication and advancement of boater safety

PHOENIX, ARIZ., May 29, 2024 – The Marine Retailers Association of the Americas (MRAA) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) have presented Arizona State Representative David Cook with the Arizona State Legislator of the Year Award for his support of the recreational boating and fishing industry.

Representative Cook Named Arizona State Legislator of the Year by MRAA NMMA
Arizona State Representative David L. Cook

Representative Cook was recognized for his leadership in advocating for policies that support the boating industry, protect boaters and create safer environments for everyone on the water. Specifically, Representative Cook has proactively supported the recreational boating and fishing industry through his backing of common-sense boater education policy.

“As a lifetime boat owner just minutes away from fabulous Lake Roosevelt, I am honored to receive the Legislator of the Year Award from the National Marine Manufacturers Association and Marine Retailers Association of the Americas for my work on H.B. 2149,” stated Representative Cook.

Representative Cook, alongside Senator Brian Fernandez, sponsored H.B. 2149: Watercraft operation; minors; safety education. Arizona is one of five states without a state-wide mandate on boater education. H.B. 2149 would have established boater education for those born on or after Jan. 1, 2007, operating a vessel 50 horsepower or higher. The Grand Canyon State is home to more than 126,000 registered boats, boasting $2.2 billion in annual economic impact. Click here to learn more about his efforts.

As Chair of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, Representative Cook solidified support among colleagues for H.B. 2149. Bringing in both the Arizona Game and Fish Department and Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department, the legislation gained bipartisan support and made it out of committee with a 9-2 vote in favor. When the bill made it to the House floor, Representative Cook continued to gain support for H.B. 2149 with both Republicans and Democrats. H.B. 2149 overwhelmingly passed the House with a 40-17 vote in favor.

The MRAA and NMMA also presented Representative Cook’s Legislative Aide, Caitlin Tillis, with Staffer of the Year for their shared commitment to the Arizona boating community.

“Representative Cook is dedicated to improving the safety of recreational boaters on Arizona’s waterways and believes in the importance of boater education,” said Chad Tokowicz, MRAA Government Relations Manager. “Representative Cook understands the importance of building a strong coalition and worked with various stakeholders throughout the recreational boating community in Arizona ranging from marine retailers to law enforcement to impacted boaters. The MRAA and the NMMA cannot thank Representative Cook enough for his efforts and we are honored to present him the Legislator of the Year Award.”

Representative Cook lives in Globe, Ariz., and since 2017 has represented District 7, which is home to recreational fishing and boating, including Theodore Roosevelt Lake on the Salt River.

About the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
At the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, we believe that for the marine industry to thrive, the retail organizations that interact with the boaters in their community must thrive. With that in mind, MRAA works to create a strong and healthy boating industry by uniting those retailers, providing them with opportunities for improvement and growth, and representing them with a powerful voice. For more information, visit MRAA.com or contact us at 763-315-8043.

About the Marine Retailers National Marine Manufacturers Association
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is the leading trade organization for the North American recreational boating industry. NMMA member companies produce more than 80 percent of the boats, engines, trailers, marine accessories and gear used by millions of boaters in North America. The association serves its members and their sales and service networks by improving the business environment for recreational boating including providing domestic and international sales and marketing opportunities, reducing unnecessary government regulation, decreasing the cost of doing business, and helping grow boating participation. As the largest producer of boat and sport shows in the U.S., NMMA connects the recreational boating industry with the boating consumer year-round. Learn more at www.nmma.org and get engaged with us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Top Safe Boating Tips – How to Sit & Swim While Boating

Boating safety is a prime topic. As a dealership, it’s rewarding to offer your expertise to help boaters understand the best safety practices in boating and avoid common mistakes. Discover Boating, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, has made this touchpoint even easier with its Top Safe Boating Tips series.

A new video, Follow Safe Seating Protocols: How to Sit and Swim Safely While Boating, launched during National Safe Boating Week and before Memorial Day weekend. It helps captains and their guests have fun riding on the boat and in playing the water.

From seating protocols to risky behaviors to carbon monoxide (CO) safety and more, Video Host and Discover Boating Ambassador Monica Puentes guides viewers through these top safe-boating tips and stars as the video’s safety educator. She offers eight total tips.

  1. Avoid jumping off docks, moving boats and hanging off the boat’s side/back.
  2. When swimming, avoid boats in motion, running engines and exhaust.
  3. Read all boat warning labels and the owner’s manual to follow operational safety.
  4. Maintain all fuel-burning engines and appliances.
  5. Swim and play away from engine exhaust.
  6. Never block exhaust outlets.
  7. Regularly test and replace all CO detectors on the boat.
  8. Dock 20 feet or more from boats with running generators or engines.

Watch the complete video here:

As a marine retailer and industry stakeholder, you can share Discover Boating’s Top Safe Boating Tips with customers on your social media feeds, in your newsletter and to connect with clients without added sales pressure. Like this scenario: “Hey, John Customer, I’m happy to hear you’re planning to join the July Fourth boat parade with your new boat. Here are some videos to keep everyone safe. We will see you there!”

Puentes concludes Video No. 3 with this thoughtful statement, “The water is for everyone to enjoy, so let’s keep it safe!” To help your customers stay safe, here is the list of 2024 videos (get 2023 videos here) within the Discover Boating Top Safe Boating Tips video series:

  1. Safe Boating with Pets
  2. Refueling Best Practices
  3. Safe Seating Protocols — NEW!
  4. Proper Use of Navigation Lights
  5. Boat Trailering Techniques

Discover Boating is powered by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the MRAA. Learn more.