The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today that more than $14.7 million will be awarded to 23 states under the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) grant program in 2013, with over $900,000 going to the Service’s Midwest Region. The Midwest Region will receive awards in four of its eight states including Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Missouri.
The first Clean Vessel Act awards were made in 1993. Since that time the Service’s Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program has awarded more than $200 million to states for projects funding construction, replacement, renovation, and maintenance of facilities that assist recreational boaters in properly disposing of on-board septic waste. The program also provides information and education on the importance, benefits, and availability of pump outs.
“Clean Vessel Act grants are essential to ensure clean water and healthy environments that allow for recreational boating opportunities,” said Service Director Dan Ashe. “The CVA program has a substantial economic impact on local communities, which is a win-win situation for conservation initiatives and businesses across America.”
Funds for the CVA program are provided annually from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust fund. These funds are derived through the collection of fishing tackle manufacturer excise taxes and boat and fishing import duties as well as motorboat and small engine fuel taxes.
