The recent posts by Capt. Mike and Rob B. reminded me of a recent meeting of the yacht club Commodores in Nova Scotia whose clubs were affected by Hurricane Juan (September 28-29). Direct and indirect damage to club property and assets varied from $0 to over $1 mil. Fortunately, most of the damage appears to be covered by insurance; however, there are some open questions - e.g. is a damaged breakwater considered an insured club asset?) No one (yet) is adding up the individual damage to boats but hundreds have been affected and it is clear that many will not be ready to launch in the spring because the repair yards are so backlogged. Several recommendations and action steps came out of the meeting that I would like to share with you for two reasons: to possibly help with your club/marina's preparedness for a major storm and to ask if any of you know of written materials that we may use/modify to meet our needs. 1. Clubs have been invited to submit a summary of insurance coverage through a 'clearing house' that will summarize key points and make suggestions for proper coverage. Further, each club should review and refine their insurance policies accordingly. 2. To develop appropriate policies, plans and procedures covering the preparation for a major storm as well as the time during and after the storm. (Note: some of the damage was avoidable if owners had removed canvas and rigged their vessels properly. Also, there were many instances in the communities where people did not take the forecast seriously or did not take appropriate precautions.) 3. Security and safety plans are also required for the employees, boat owners, members, volunteers and general public. (For example, many areas including private clubs were inundated with 'rubberneckers', and some boats were subject to vandalism and theft even before the hurricane left). 4. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on standards for proper marina and swing moorings along with regular inspections or certifications and proper mooring agreements. (Note: the storm surge at high tide reached an additional six feet, which caused flooding of club facilities, dragged moorings, displaced floating marinas, snapped lines and pulled cleats.) Again, if any listees have access to this type of information that could be shared, we would really appreciate a head start. Happy New Year! Ed Bottrell Halifax, NS