Funds under this grant award will be used to construct and maintain pumpout stations and recreational vessel sewage reception facilities to safely dispose of recreational boater sewage in coastal…

The U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service (DOI FWS) awarded the Florida Department of Environmental Protection $1.92 million under the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) program (CFDA 15.616) to construct and maintain pumpout stations and recreational vessel sewage reception facilities across coastal Florida. The project encompasses the initiation and completion of 27 pumpout projects through October 1, 2025 to September 30, 2027, implemented in partnership with local marinas, boating facilities, boating communities, and marine industry stakeholders. These facilities will provide safe disposal infrastructure for recreational boater sewage while maintaining coastal water quality.

In addition to infrastructure development, the grant funds a comprehensive education and outreach campaign designed to inform recreational boaters of pumpout station locations and emphasize the importance of utilizing these facilities. The CVA program is funded through revenues collected from excise taxes on motorboat fuel, electric motors, and fishing equipment, as well as import duties on fishing tackle and yachts deposited into the Sport Fish Restoration Trust Fund. Funded facilities must remain accessible to the general public throughout their useful life and display visible signage to boaters on the water.

Funds under this grant award will be used to construct and maintain pumpout stations and recreational vessel sewage reception facilities to safely dispose of recreational boater sewage in coastal florida. 27 pumpout projects will be initiated and completed in partnership with marina and boating facilities local boating communities and marine industries. Work also includes and education outreach campaign to inform recreational boaters of the location and importance of using pumpout stations.