The Coffs Harbour International Marina is now proudly flying a 'Clean Marina' banner on its boardwalk, after qualifying for Level 3 Accreditation with the Marina Industries Association of Australia.

Elise Currey, manager of the marina, said the journey started when they were approached by a group of consultants.

"From there we went through a series of workshops to learn about environmental best practise and how to reduce the environmental damage and cost from marina users," Ms Currey said.

"We then formulated an environmental charter with the aim of reducing nonpoint source pollution," she said.

As part of the workshops the team learnt about ways to red-uce pollution from docked vessels, including pump-outs, and made a ruling to ban fishing on the marina boardwalk to protect both the property docked at the marina and the marine biodiversity.

"We also organised a clean-up in conjunction with Jetty Dive using these fantastic devices that sit in the water like a buoy and take underwater pictures," Ms Currey said.

"Many people don't realise the devastating consequences when they throw rubbish overboard or off the boardwalk, and by identifying just how many species call the marina home we hope to discourage that behaviour."

As part of the accreditation the marina also underwent water testing, with results coming back well within the safe zone.

So what's the next step after achieving the environmental milestone?

Ms Currey said the marina hoped to use the knowledge they gained to educate the public.

"We want to organise educational signs along the boardwalk to teach people about the different ecosystems in the marina, and we're also looking to dev-elop an 'Ocean Day' in conjunction with the Northern Rivers Catchment Authority where we will gather together people from marine rescue, recreational and professional fishermen, yachts, powerboats ? everyone who uses the marina ? for an open day for the public."

The Clean Marina Program is a voluntary, incentive-based education and outreach program that encourages environmental compliance and the use of best management practices for marinas.