FWC approves rule on grant-funded removal of vessels
At its recent meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved a rule amendment allowing local governments to apply for and use grant funding from the Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program for removal of at-risk/public nuisance vessels. The program only allowed governments to apply for and use grant funds to remove, destroy and dispose of derelict vessels.
“The FWC takes the quality and safety of our waterways very seriously,” FWC Boating and Waterways Section Leader Maj. Rob Beaton said. “This change provides a means for vessels to be removed from the water before they become a danger to our public and our environment.”
Removing at-risk/public nuisance vessels before they become derelict will save taxpayers money. Removal costs for vessels still floating are significantly lower than costs for removing sunken derelict vessels. It will help protect Florida’s environment and the boating public. Derelict vessels can cause the destruction of valuable seagrass resources, endanger marine life and pose navigational hazards.
A vessel is considered at risk of becoming derelict if any of the following conditions exist:
– The vessel is taking on or has taken on water without an effective means to dewater.
– Spaces on the vessel that are designed to be enclosed are incapable of being sealed off or remain open to the elements for extended periods of time.
– The vessel has broken loose or is in danger of breaking loose from its anchor.
– The vessel is left or stored aground unattended in such a state that would prevent the vessel from getting underway, is listing due to water intrusion, or is sunk or partially sunk.
In addition, recent changes to Florida law provide that if a vessel owner is issued three citations within 18 months for the same at-risk condition, the vessel could be declared a public nuisance and may be removed using processes similar to the removal processes for derelict vessels.
For more information, visit MyFWC.com/Boating and click on “Waterway Management” and “Derelict Vessel Removal Program.”
To reach FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION, please email