Coastal Awareness and Responsible Ecotourism Certification
The Coastal Awareness and Responsible Ecotourism (CARE) certification program encourages sustainable tourism on the Georgia coast.
The CARE certification program is a five-week blended learning opportunity designed for individuals working in coastal, water-based tourism including but not limited to paddle outfitters and charter boat companies.
The program, launched in 2021 by Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant and Manomet Conservation Services, provides ecotour companies with the tools to implement best practices when it comes to water-based tourism. Engaging ecotourism companies through a certification course will build support for conservation and stewardship of important habitats and wildlife on the coast.
Get Involved!
Applications for the 2026 CARE Certification Program are now closed. Thank you for your interest.
Questions?
Contact Shannon Matzke at shannon.matzke@uga.edu
The Coastal Awareness and Responsible Ecotourism certification program was developed through a Coastal Incentive Grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division.
Resources:
Learndash
Participants who have completed the certification program can access the course materials here.
Certified CARE Guides
Certified CARE guides include affiliates of ecotour providers from all along the coast of Georgia. The guides that have completed the CARE certification program can be found in the map below.