Boating and the Environment

We are lucky to have thousands of beautiful lakes and rivers to enjoy in Ontario, and boating is an important part of our waterfront heritage and history. Boating allows for an appreciation of our natural areas, and can be a great family activity.  We have a shared responsibility as boaters to keep our waterways safe and clean.

Small engines, including conventional two stroke marine engines are high polluters relative to their engine size and their usage. Emissions from these small engines can contribute to ozone (photochemical smog) formation in summer. They also emit particles, carbon monoxide (CO) and a range of water and air toxics such as benzene.

Older style outboard engines that do not comply with US EPA 2006 limits can emit as much as ten times the amount of pollution compared to conforming engines.

Conventional two stroke carburettor engines used in boats and personal watercraft emit proportionally more volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other air pollutants than more fuel efficient direct injection two stroke and four stroke engines.

Boat operation can also impact the sensitive shorelines, and can directly impact the success of important species, including the loon.  

Protecting loon nesting sites and nursery areas, especially during the breeding season, can make a difference.  For boaters, we should be mindful of our wakes as they can impact wildlife, as well as create considerable havoc on neighbouring boats and docks.  

In addition to wise choices in marine power, and being sensitive to near shore habitats, there are many other things we can each do to lower our impact as individual boaters. 

Many great tips and helpful information can be found in the pdf version of the Ontario Marine Operators Association's Clean Boater Handbook and on the Transport Canada website.

Boaters can make more environmentally responsible choices in the marinas they frequent, by patronizing the Eco Rated marinas in the OMOA Clean Marine Program.

To learn about the canoe's link to Canada's rich cultural heritage and unique landscape, and discover the enduring significance of the canoe to the people of Canada, you can visit the Canadian Canoe Museum.