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.
Launched in 2021, the program is co-managed and co-delivered by Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant and Manomet Conservation Sciences. Together, the organizations provide ecotourism companies with the tools and training needed to implement best practices for responsible water-based tourism. Engaging ecotourism companies through a certification course builds support for conservation and stewardship of important habitats and wildlife on the coast.
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.
Get Involved!
Applications are now open for the 2027 CARE certification course.
CARE is a collaborative partnership between Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant and Manomet Conservation Sciences that connects ecotourism professionals with coastal conservation.
Resources
Certified CARE Guides
Certified CARE guides include ecotour providers, educators and students from all along the coast of Georgia. The guides that have completed the CARE certification program can be found on the map below.
