Dorchester County has a rich boating heritage including boating building, skipjacks, marinas, and sailing. Rivers, creeks and the bay provide recreation as well as a living for many residents in the county. Water, it’s part of Dorchester’s identity, heritage and opportunity and for that reason the boating industry was chosen to be part of the “water moves us” branding campaign.
The Dorchester County Economic Development Office (DCED) is excited to have Gootee’s Marine as the next new face in the branding campaign. Located on Hooper’s Island Road in Church Creek, Gootees Marine is a well-known family run business since 1954, focusing on new and used boats, motors and trailer sales as well as fishing charters. Sales Manager Nick Gootee said, “I love the direct contact with the public and helping them decide which boat or engine best suits their needs, wants, and budget.” Gootee’s Marine employs 12 full employees, and most employees have been there over 20 years.
Maryland’s boating industry is an economic driver. The Maryland Sea Grant Extension Program and DNR’s -Economic Impact of Maryland Boating in 2007 reported, “Every 6.5 boats registered in Maryland leads to more than one full-time job somewhere in the state’s economy and each boat contributes on average about $8,600 a year in economic activity. The industry represents 32,164 jobs.” In 2007, the Maryland Sea Grant estimated that total nominal spending in Maryland’s boating industry exceeded $2.5 billion.
Whether you are fishing, sailing, swimming, kayaking or enjoying a quiet afternoon on one of Dorchester County’s waterfront parks “water moves us” and it will move you too! To find out more about Gootee’s Marine please visit http://gootees.com or call 800-792-0082.