This grant proposal seeks to obtain continued funding for the maine pumpout grant program the proposal purpose is to minimize the amount of boat waste discharged to maines waters from recreational…

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (DOI Fish and Wildlife Service Region 5) awarded $711,692.00 to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection under the Clean Vessel Act (CFDA 15.616) program to support continued operations of the Maine Pumpout Grant Program. The award, effective July 1, 2025, through July 1, 2027, funds the installation, repair, and replacement of boat sewage pumpout disposal facilities at recreational boating locations throughout Maine. These infrastructure improvements directly support proper disposal of marine sanitation waste from recreational vessels, thereby minimizing boat waste discharge into Maine waters and protecting water quality across the state's coastal and inland waterways.

In addition to facility construction and maintenance activities, the award supports comprehensive boater education and outreach initiatives designed to increase utilization of accessible public pumpout facilities. The Clean Vessel Act program targets state environmental protection agencies to develop marine sanitation infrastructure that serves recreational boaters, marina operators, and the general public, with awards typically spanning two to three years. This Maine-based project aligns with the program's national objectives of reducing water pollution through improved sewage management infrastructure at waterway access points where recreational vessels normally operate.

This grant proposal seeks to obtain continued funding for the maine pumpout grant program the proposal purpose is to minimize the amount of boat waste discharged to maines waters from recreational vessels by providing for the installation and maintenance of boat pumpout disposal facilities where recreational vessels normally operate activities to be performed as part of this proposal include construction of new pumpout units repair and replacement of older units and boater education and outreach materials expected outcomes include preserving and improving water quality through the increased use of readily accessible public pumpout facilities that allow for the proper disposal of sewage from recreational boats