On August 27th the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service awarded almost $11 million to 23 states under the Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant program. The grant awards will fund construction of sewage dump stations and pumpout stations for recreational boaters and educational programs that inform boaters about the importance of proper waste disposal. Here in Alaska, more than $250,000 of Clean Vessel Act Grant money will be used to educate boaters about pollution and improve pumpout station capabilities in Juneau and Seward.
Program funds will be used to maintain and expand the capabilities of existing stations in Juneau and Seward, making them more convenient for boaters to use. The grant will also fund the rehabilitation of existing pumpout station equipment at five other locations, and pay for the reprinting and distribution of a boater information pamphlet stressing the need for proper waste disposal. A cooperative effort involving several state agencies, the United States Coast Guard, and the Alaska Harbormasters? Association, the pamphlet also discusses boat maintenance, marine debris, oily discharges, and fish waste.
"The actions funded by this grant will help assure that Alaska's waters remain productive and pristine," said the Service's Alaska Regional Director Rowan Gould. "Boaters want to do the right thing. This educational pamphlet will tell them why and how to do so, and the pumpout station improvements will make it easier for everyone concerned to do his or her part."
Congress passed the Clean Vessel Act in 1992. It established a federal grant program, administered by the Service, to help reduce pollution from vessel sewage discharges. Funding comes from the Sport Fish Restoration account, made up of revenues from excise taxes on fishing equipment, boats, and motorboat fuels. The Clean Vessel Act requires that pumpout stations in coastal environments receive funding preference, although proposals for inland facilities are also eligible for funding from the program. Federal funds can constitute up to 75 percent of all approved projects, with the remaining funds provided by the States or marinas. Since the Act was passed, the Service has awarded more than $90 million to states for Clean Vessel Act programs and efforts.
Raw or poorly treated sewage can spread disease, contaminate shellfish beds, and lower oxygen levels in water. Waterborne diseases, including hepatitis, typhoid and cholera, can be transmitted by shellfish. Organic matter in sewage is decomposed in the water by bacteria. During this process, the bacteria use oxygen. As a result, sewage in the water may deplete the waters oxygen level, causing stress to fish and other aquatic animals.
A national press release, which includes information on Clean Vessel Act Grants awarded across the country, can be found at . For more information on these grants, please see http://federalaid.fws.gov/cva/cva.html. Clean Vessel Act Grants are also listed in the Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance under number 15.616.
