(boatus.org) – More than an eyesore, trash in the ocean is one of the world’s most pervasive pollution problems. It sickens and kills marine animals and birds. It also undermines economies based on tourism and fisheries. While as much as 80 percent of marine debris is said to come from land-based activities, as boaters, we need to do our part. Make sure you know the rules and laws of the area you are sailng in whether it is an ocean, lake, bay or sound. Know the “special areas” including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. Violations not only harm the environment but can be quite costly. Read more.