2024 Dockwalker Program Offers Free Training Opportunities for Environmental Advocates

In line with Jane Goodall’s famous quote, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make,” the 2024 Dockwalker Program invites individuals to become partners in safeguarding California’s waterways.

The Dockwalker Program aims at promoting clean boating practices, providing participants with the knowledge and tools to engage with boaters and the public effectively. Participants, known as Dockwalkers, are trained to disseminate essential clean boating information, distribute educational materials and encourage adoption of environmentally-friendly practices among boaters.

The program offers multiple training dates and formats across Northern and Southern California, including virtual sessions and in-person training at prominent yacht clubs and marine facilities. Refresher courses are also available for individuals trained within the last three years.

Once registered for a training session, participants receive necessary materials and a Zoom link for virtual sessions, enabling seamless participation from anywhere with internet access.

Dockwalkers play a vital role in advocating for clean boating practices by interacting with boaters at marinas, launch ramps, boat shows and other relevant venues. Through their efforts, Dockwalkers contribute to preserving the cleanliness and health of California’s marinas, waterways and ocean.

Since its inception in 2000, the Dockwalker Program has trained over 1,400 individuals, reaching 110,000 boaters and promoting awareness about preventing oil, fuel, sewage, trash and marine debris pollution. Participation in the program, including training sessions, qualifies as community service.

Individuals of all backgrounds and ages, from 15 to 100 years young, are encouraged to join the Dockwalker Program, provided they share an interest in water quality and promoting clean boating practices.

The program has garnered praise from various stakeholders, including boaters, water enthusiasts, marinas, yacht clubs and environmental organizations.

Implemented by California State Parks, the California Coastal Commission and the Bay Foundation in partnership with the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, the US Power Squadrons, Save Our Shores, Lake Berryessa Partnership and other organizations, the Dockwalker Program remains a cornerstone of environmental stewardship in California’s boating community.