Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant Program

The Clean Vessel Act of 1992 authorized a competitive grant program for States to construct pumpout and dump stations to dispose of vessel sewage from recreational boaters.

Funds were available for six years: $5 million for FY 1993; $7.5 million for both FY 1994 and 1995; and $10 million each year for FY 1996, 1997 and 1999. No funds were available for FY 1998. Federal share is 75 percent.

Eligible projects include: for coastal States, surveys and plans; and for all States, education and construction/renovation of pumpout and dump stations.

Priorities for grants were for funding coastal States with an approved plan, States providing for public/private partnerships, providing for innovative ways to increase availability and use of pumpout stations, States that include an education component, proposals benefitting waters most likely affected by sewage discharge, and proposals in areas with high vessel/pumpout station ratios.

Technical guidelines (information on appropriate types of facilities, surveys, plans, and education), and grant guidelines (information on how to apply for grants) were published in final form in the Federal Register on March 10, 1994.

A National Education Action Plan was finalized December 20, 1994. Generic motivational products, such as public service announcements, have been produced. A clearinghouse for storing and disseminating education information has been established. A pumpout symbol and slogan has been developed. A 1-800-ASK-FISH telephone number has been established for boaters to determine pumpout locations.

The grant program, between 1993 and 1999, has resulted in 49 States receiving $47.6 million for 207 grants. The projects selected involve surveys and plans in 33 coastal States, construction of 2,730 pumpout and 1,778 dump stations in 45 States, and education programs in 40 States.

All coastal States have taken advantage of program funds by initiating pumpout programs in their States.

Currently, there is no authorization for additional funds for the Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant Program. The American League of Anglers and Boaters supports reauthorization of the Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant Program, and is seeking to initiate legislation in Congress.