Newport Exhibition Group, owners and producers of the Newport International Boat Show, announced today that Clean Ocean Access is its Official Charitable Partner for the 45th Annual Newport International Boat Show. A 501(C)3non-profit organization, Clean Ocean Accessconducts island-wide marine debris removal efforts, water quality monitoring, and protecting public access, all with a focus on restoring and protecting our natural resources, increasing recreational opportunities, and developing community responsibility by increasing awareness of the impact humans have on the environment.
As the show’s charitable partner, Clean Ocean Access will receive a portion of Sunday’sticket sales, complimentary exhibit space at the event and the opportunity for its staff to educate and share information regarding their important mission.
“Clean Ocean Access does such important work eliminating marine debris from the shoreline and improvingoverall ocean health – a task every boater should embrace,” said Nancy Piffard, show director, Newport Exhibition Group. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to remind the tens of thousands of people who attend our show that if all of us do seemingly small things locally, we can make a big difference globally.”
With over 4,500 volunteers involved since 2006, Clean Ocean Access has conducted over 160 coastal cleanups that have removed over 68,000 pounds of marine debris. In addition to the cleanups, the organization takes direct responsibility for a number of ocean access points in order to protect, preserve and expand resident and visitorenjoyment of the shorelines.Clean Ocean Access has independently collected over 4,600 water samples,testedthem for bacteria and nutrient levels,and alerted appropriate government agencies of any potential water quality issues.
“We are thrilled for the opportunity to promote environmental stewardship, working with the Newport International Boat Show,” said Dave McLaughlin, executive director, Clean Ocean Access. “We want to spread the word about what we have accomplished with limited means, and share our approach so that others can easily take the initiative to do the same in their communities. Any action taken today is vital sothat future generations can continue to enjoy ocean activities.”
The Newport International Boat Show will take place September 17-20, 2015 on the Newport Waterfront along America’s Cup Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island. One of the largest in-water boat shows in the country and the kick-off to the boat show season, the event will host exhibitors from around the world with an exceptional assortment of boats of every type and style, and a wide variety of accessories, equipment, electronics, gear and services for boaters.