Submitted by San Juan County.

As the days grow longer and warmer, San Juan County’s Department of Environmental Stewardship is pleased to share a few spring cleaning tips with boat owners.

• Inspect the hull and exterior: Examine the hull for any signs of damage. Clean the hull and deck to remove any dirt, grime or salt.

• Check the engine and mechanical systems: Inspect the engine, fuel lines and hoses, looking for chafing, swelling or old hose clamps that should be changed out. It’s wise to check electrical wires for any signs of damage, discoloration, loose connections or deterioration. If the equipment has an inline fuse, check it for signs of corrosion. This is also a good time to change out the fuse as a preventive measure. Change the oil and fuel filters, and pay attention to the water separator if you have one. During your check, change out spark plugs if needed and lubricate moving parts like shifting cables and throttle cables to ensure smooth operation. You can also test the battery and charging system to ensure they are functioning correctly.

• Inspect safety equipment: Check that all safety equipment is ready to use and up to date. Replace any expired items and ensure that they are easily accessible in case of an emergency.

• Test navigation and communication devices: Verify that all navigation lights, GPS systems and communication devices are working correctly.

• Inspect plumbing and bilge systems: Check the bilge pumps, hoses and plumbing systems for any leaks or blockages.

• Check trailer and trailer lights: If you use a trailer to transport your boat, inspect it for any signs of wear or damage. Check the trailer lights to ensure they are functioning correctly and replace any broken or burned-out bulbs. It’s a good idea to also grease wheel bearings, check brakes and safety chains.

• Ensure that your boat insurance and registration are up to date before hitting the water.

• Schedule professional maintenance: Consider scheduling a professional boat maintenance service to perform a comprehensive inspection and tune-up before the start of the season.

• Below the waterline: At the boat yard, have the hull pressure washed and inspect bottom paint. Check the propellers, thruster tunnel and impellers, rudders, water intake, swim step brackets and exhaust discharge.

• Consider getting a marine assist membership with a program like TowBoatUS Friday Harbor: https://www.boatus.com/towboatus/friday-harbor.

Derelict vessels

If you notice a derelict vessel, let us know! The County’s Derelict Vessel Program works closely with local authorities and the State Department of Natural Resources to address problem vessels that can be a hazard to other boaters and impact our marine environment. With help from citizen calls, the County actively monitors suspected derelict vessel conditions in an effort to avoid abandonment or sinking (prevention). If a boat is abandoned or in distress, the county works with owners and local marine facilities to have the vessel removed.

Learn how to report a derelict vessel at https://www.sanjuancountywa.gov/497/Report-a-Vessel.