The Association of Marine Industries has awarded Joe Springer, the Manager of WESTREC Marinas’ Fernandina Harbor Marina, the designation of Certified Marina Manager (CMM) at their International Marina and Boatyard Conference in January.
Joe Springer, CMM, Fernandina Beach Marina, Copyright- 2012 WESTREC Marinas
“CMMs represent the elite in the marina and recreational boating industry. They value true personal and professional excellence and strive to maintain the highest levels of ethical and moral conduct in their commitment to the marina industry,” says John Louis, Westrec Southern Region Manager. “CMMs are marina professionals who have completed an extensive training and certification process through the globally recognized International Marina Institute (IMI) and embrace the continuance of education and training for themselves and those who work within the marina industry,” he added.
Joe Springer joined Fernandina Harbor Marina in 2010 after the City awarded management of the facility to Westrec following a thorough RFP process. During his tenure, Joe has worked diligently to provide excellent services for marina patrons, their guests and transient boaters visiting the historic destination. With the support of the Westrec team, Joe leads his marina employees in providing excellent customer service emphasizing environmental responsibility in all aspects of marina operations as well as community outreach events.
Fernandina Harbor Marina, Full Berths, Clean Marina, Copyright- 2012 WESTREC Marinas
While Fernandina Harbor Marina has just completed 2012 dredging operations, to ensure the best possible access in 2013, additional dredging operations are already underway. With a siltation rate of approximately one inch per month, maintaining a usable depth is an ongoing concern for the Fernandina Harbor Marina. Following a presentation in 2011 to the Florida Inland Navigational District (FIND), a partnership was agreed on that leveraged FIND funds with municipal budget, enabling the marina to remove over 15,000 cubic yards of dredge material for acceptable depth.
“Even though this project was just completed, we are working on the plan for the 2013 fiscal year to remove even more material. Thoughtful dredging operations allows us attract the broadest spectrum of boats and yachts,” says Mr. Springer.
Another key management goal since Westrec was awarded the Management Contract for Fernandina Harbor Marina by the City of Fernandina Beach, was obtaining the Florida Department of Environmental Protection CLEAN MARINA status. This has been a top priority for Joe Springer and his marina team.
To become designated as a Clean Marina, facilities must implement a set of environmental measures designed to protect Florida’s waterways. These measures address critical environmental issues such as sensitive habitat, waste management, storm water control, spill prevention and emergency preparedness.
“There are over 2500 marinas located in the State of Florida; only 257 have achieved the Clean Marina designation. We’ve all worked very hard to complete the requirements, to show our commitment to this program and are honored to have been awarded the Florida Clean Marina designation on National Marina Day last year,” he says.
Fernandina Harbor Marina also celebrates the very nature of boating. Recently, the site hosted the 2012 Marina Trawler Owners Association’s MTOA Spring 2012 Rendezvous and was a proud sponsor of the city’s Annual Shrimpfest.
