Busy Boating Season: Best Practices for Marinas to Handle Waste Responsibly
Summer is here, and that means one thing across Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario—boating season is in full swing. As more marinas welcome an influx of boaters, the amount of used oil, fuel residues, cleaning chemicals, and other hazardous waste increases significantly.
At Recycle West, we understand the unique challenges marinas face during peak season. As a full-service hazardous waste and used oil recycling company, we’ve helped countless marine facilities stay compliant, clean, and environmentally responsible.
Here are our top best practices for managing waste during this busy time of year:
1. Have a Designated Waste Collection Area
Ensure your marina has clearly marked, well-ventilated areas for collecting used oil, filters, batteries, and oily rags. These zones should be:
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Away from water sources
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Protected from the elements
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Easily accessible for service trucks (like ours!)
This simple step reduces the risk of accidental spills and ensures easy pickup by licensed recyclers.
2. Schedule Regular Waste Pickups
In the summer, waste builds up fast. One missed pickup can mean overflowing containers, unpleasant odors, or worse—environmental contamination.
Recycle West offers customizable pickup schedules to meet your marina’s needs throughout the busy season. Whether you’re a small dock or a major harbor, we’ve got you covered across Western and Central Canada.
3. Train Your Staff on Spill Prevention and Emergency Procedures
With more boaters comes more activity—and more potential for accidents. Make sure your staff is trained to:
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Recognize hazardous waste
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Properly label and segregate waste streams
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Respond quickly to spills or leaks
4. Promote Environmental Responsibility to Boaters
Make environmental care part of your marina’s culture. Provide visible signage reminding boaters to:
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Properly dispose of used oil and filters
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Use oil-absorbent pads in bilges
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Avoid dumping waste overboard
We can provide printed materials or signage templates tailored to your region in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, or Ontario.
5. Partner with a Licensed Waste Handler
Not all waste disposal services are created equal. Recycle West is fully licensed and insured to handle hazardous waste in compliance with provincial and federal regulations.
Our team ensures that every drop of oil and every ounce of waste is safely transported and processed, helping you avoid fines, reduce liability, and protect the waterways you depend on.
Ready for a Cleaner, Safer Boating Season?
If you’re a marina operator or dock manager in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, or Ontario, let’s make this boating season your most sustainable yet.
Contact Recycle West today for a free consultation or to schedule a summer waste pickup. Together, we’ll keep your marina clean—and your waters even cleaner.