PROVIDENCE – R.I. Department of Environmental Management Director Janet Coit was awarded the John H. Chafee Boater of the Year Award by the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association at the Providence Boat Show.

According to a news release, the award recognizes and honors an individual who has contributed to the “success of the recreational boating industry” in the state or who has championed the cause to bring recreational boating to the public.

In the release, Coit noted the association served on the host committee for the successful America’s Cup World Series held at Fort Adams State Park last summer. This premier tourism event attracted more than 60,000 people to events over a nine-day period, and an estimated 1.9 million viewers who watched the races live on TV.

Director Coit also noted that DEM has worked in partnership with the association over the years on numerous efforts to promote safe and clean harbors.

The organization has been a key player in the effort to rid Rhode Island’s shoreline of accumulated marine debris through the Project Clean Sweep program. The association advocated for a new law and funding mechanism that addresses abandoned vessels, which Coit said pose a hazard to navigation. •