Recreational boating is a billion-dollar industry in Oregon. People access the coast, rivers and lakes to cruise, sail, kayak and fish.
Oregon Sea Grant works with boaters to enhance their outdoor experience while protecting wildlife and water quality. Our research and outreach programs range from addressing proper procedures around marine wildlife to promoting safe disposal of boater waste.
Feature Stories
- Oregon Sea Grant tells boaters where to go when they have to go
- Guidelines help boaters enjoy watching whales without disturbing them
Videos
- Where to empty onboard portable toilets in Oregon
- Where to empty onboard holding tanks in Oregon
- Pumpout station and portable toilet maintenance video series
Research
Connie Sullivan,
Oregon Sea Grant Boating Outreach Coordinator
Prior to joining Oregon Sea Grant, Connie was the coordinator for Clean Marina Washington, which is a free technical assistance program for recreational marinas to work on spill prevention and spill preparedness. The Clean Boating Program focuses on water quality issues related to boating pump and dump stations and floating restrooms. This work also involves issues related to derelict vessels and clean marinas.
Jo Lyle-Librie,
Sea Grant Extension Clean Boating Program Assistant
Based on the South Coast, Jo serves as the Clean Boating Program Assistant. Her role supports the program by providing resources to boaters for maintaining clean water statewide.
Jo received a BSc in Biology from the University of Oregon and an MSc from the Oregon Institute of Marine Biology. Jo has a background in marine ecology and has worked in academia, nonprofits, and government. She has experience on the water in large oceanographic ships, commercial vessels, small motorized boats, and paddlecraft. Previously, Jo was an Oregon Sea Grant Natural Resource Policy Fellow and worked with the Oregon Chapter of The Nature Conservancy to synthesize knowledge of Oregon’s Blue Carbon ecosystems and their benefits to people, climate, and environment.
Leigh Torres,
Sea Grant Extension Marine Mammals
Leigh is located at the Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport. As a Marine Mammal Specialist, Leigh helps to provide boater etiquette guidance related to marine mammals. She also works extensively with the Marine Mammal Institute.