Clean Vessel Act Grant

The Clean Vessel Act Grant Program, administered at the federal level by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, was established through the Clean Vessel Act of 1992. This legislation aims to reduce pollution from recreational boaters by addressing the direct discharge of raw sewage into coastal and inland waters. In response, the program provides federal funding support to states for the construction, renovation, operation, and maintenance of vessel sewage pumpout stations and waste reception facilities. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources, specifically through its Coastal Resources Division, administers this grant program within the state of Georgia, continuing efforts to protect water quality and promote environmentally responsible boating practices. The primary goal of the grant program is to ensure that recreational boaters have access to adequate and convenient sewage disposal facilities. It does this by supporting a wide range of eligible activities, including the installation of new pumpout and dump stations, renovation of existing facilities, and the development of infrastructure necessary to transport sewage to treatment plants. Costs related to holding tanks, piping, lift stations, pier or dock modifications, signage, and permits may also be covered. Additionally, the grant program supports the implementation of educational programs aimed at informing boaters about the benefits and availability of pumpout stations. Grant funding under this program covers up to 75% of the total project cost, with the remaining 25% required as a non-federal match. This matching requirement may be met through cash contributions, donated materials, or in-kind labor services, allowing flexibility for applicants in satisfying the cost-share obligation. To be eligible for funding, the facilities must be open to the public, provide equitable access to boaters, and maintain reasonable operating hours. Clear signage visible from the water is also required to ensure boater awareness. Fees charged for pumpouts must not exceed $5 unless a higher rate is approved in advance. Applicants may include entities that propose projects supporting infrastructure and services for recreational vessels with onboard sewage systems or portable toilets. Projects must be located within Georgia, and grant-funded facilities must remain accessible to the public throughout their useful life. The act specifically excludes projects that do not provide public benefits, law enforcement functions, and land-based restroom or sewage treatment facility construction unrelated to vessel waste management. Applications for this funding opportunity must be submitted using the official Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant Application. Submissions can be made either by mail or electronically. Mailed applications should be directed to Steven Partin, Grants Coordinator, at One Conservation Way, Brunswick, GA 31520. Applications may also be emailed to [email protected]. Applicants are encouraged to contact the program coordinator via phone at (912) 264-7218 for any additional questions or clarifications. While specific deadlines for submission are not listed in the public notice, the program appears to operate on an open or potentially recurring basis, with reimbursements offered for eligible costs. This suggests a flexible timeline that may accommodate applications as they are submitted, though applicants are advised to verify timelines directly with the Coastal Resources Division. Projects funded through this program must comply with the grant’s operational standards and maintain accessibility throughout their lifecycle, reinforcing the program’s commitment to long-term environmental stewardship.