‘As one of the world’s largest outfitters of boaters and other waterlife enthusiasts, West Marine is actively working to conserve marine resources to help people enjoy and recreate on and around the water. To achieve that goal, we are committed to supporting and promoting healthy and vibrant marine habitats and sustainable fisheries. In spite of the vastness of the oceans, many fish species are seriously overfished and depleted. Fortunately with implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, the US has rebuilt many overfished stocks. But without much more work the health and biodiversity of our ocean will continue to be at risk. As boaters and anglers, we have a vested interest in ensuring that our waterways remain ecologically viable for future generations.
West Marine doesn’t just talk about conserving marine resources. For years we have worked with many groups to conserve marine habitat. And we created a BlueFuture® Fund to promote healthy marine ecosystems and youth boating. Similarly, Our Pure Oceans line of maintenance products was developed to reduce the amount of chemicals of concern going into the marine environment.
It is because we want a healthy ocean that can be enjoyed by future boaters and other water activity lovers that we see such utility in the regional planning processes underway in parts of the United States. Developing a plan brings ocean users together to set guidelines for allowing future activities, reducing potential conflicts and maintaining existing uses. For boaters and anglers, a regional plan will ensure that developers, managers and political leaders understand the intrinsic and economic value of recreational fishing, boating and other waterlife activities and the immense value to our industry of a healthy ocean and access to it.’