BoatUS Foundation Launches $7.5M Abandoned Vessels Cleanup Grant
BoatUS Foundation's $7.5 million grant program aims to transform U.S. waterways by removing abandoned vessels, benefiting the environment and local communities.
In a groundbreaking initiative to clean up America’s waterways, the Boat Owners Association of the United States Foundation (BoatUS Foundation) has opened a grant program aimed at removing abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs). Supported by a four-year, $10 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, the effort is part of a nationwide campaign to address the environmental and navigational hazards posed by these neglected boats.
Above: An abandoned, derelict sailboat partially sunken just outside Beaufort Harbor. Photo courtesy of BoatUS Foundation via Bradley Weaver.
Call for Applications
Through August 12, the BoatUS Foundation is inviting diverse and experienced organizations to apply for grant funding. Eligible entities include nonprofits, for-profits, and various government agencies at local, state, territorial, tribal, and regional levels. The initiative emphasizes reaching underserved and marginalized communities that lack the resources to tackle the ADV problem independently.
Alanna Keating, Director of Outreach and Grant Program Director at BoatUS Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the program's potential. “We’re excited about building upon our years of experience with ADV removals,” Keating said. “This unique program is open to any organization, and we’re particularly focused on helping communities that don’t have the local resources to rid their shores of abandoned and derelict vessels.”
Environmental and Economic Impact
Abandoned vessels are a significant problem across the United States, cluttering ports, waterways, and estuaries. These boats can damage sensitive ecosystems, obstruct navigation, and pose risks during coastal storms. Moreover, they contribute to economic losses in affected communities. Removing a single ADV can cost over $24,000, making it a financial burden for many localities.
Nancy Wallace, Director of the NOAA Marine Debris Program, highlighted the widespread nature of the issue. “Abandoned and derelict vessels are a widespread problem across the United States," Wallace said. “We are pleased to partner with the BoatUS Foundation to maximize our impact, while reducing the accumulation of costly and damaging debris in our ports, waterways, and coasts.”
Above: An overturned fishing trawler partially sunken just outside Beaufort Harbor. Photo courtesy of BoatUS Foundation via Bradley Weaver.
Goals and Application Process
The primary goal of the BoatUS Foundation program is to improve the conditions of U.S. coastal and Great Lakes waters by removing ADVs. The program also aims to create a national online database to track ADV locations and removal efforts, enhancing long-term environmental stewardship.
Organizations interested in applying for ADV removal funds must submit a letter of intent by August 12. The letter should include details about the targeted body of water, project purpose and steps, anticipated environmental and community outcomes, diversity and inclusion efforts, budget, and required permits.
Projects will be prioritized based on their benefits to tribal, underserved, or low-income communities, demonstrated community support, positive impact on marine habitats and local economies, and outreach activities aimed at preventing future ADV issues.
How to Apply
For more information on application guidelines and the grant program, interested organizations can visit the BoatUS Foundation’s website.
By facilitating the removal of abandoned and derelict vessels, this grant program promises to make a significant, positive impact on the nation’s waterways, benefiting both the environment and local communities for years to come.
