Second marine fuel site makes sense at Budd Inlet

As many boaters know the Boston Harbor Marina diesel pump has been down for several months. In need of fuel, I had to pour a four-gallon can of diesel in my boat by hand to continue to sail around Budd Inlet.

Big deal you say. But boaters handling their own fuel is one of the most environmentally dangerous things boaters do. My fuel input point is well placed for a gas pump nozzle but not for hand pouring a four-gallon can. I spread a half dozen fuel catching diapers around to insure nothing hit the water. I was careful and I was prepared and I still had one drop that splattered in the intake tube and tinkled the water like tiny salt sprinkles.

Many boaters are not so careful. Opening a second marine fuel point is an ecologically wise thing. It will not encourage more pollution, it will help reduce it. Professional equipment overseen by professionals is always a safer option. And competition lowers prices.

That is one reason I am supporting Joe Downing for Olympia port commissioner. He has worked for a fuel station at Swantown. It is one of many wise projects he supports both on and off the water in Olympia. His vision includes the financial potential of the port, the issues of the upstream farmers, and the recreational value of the land and water surrounding Budd Inlet. I’ve talked to him and he has good ideas.

This story was originally published August 5, 2015 at 5:01 PM with the headline "Second marine fuel site makes sense at Budd Inlet."