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Pumpout Grant Program
Keep our waters clean
Clean Vessel Act of 1992 Pumpout Grant Program
In 1992, Congress passed the Clean Vessel Act to help reduce pollution from vessel sewage discharges into U.S. waters. The grant program established by the Act funds the construction, renovation, operation and maintenance of pumpout and dump stations for use by recreational boaters.
As part of its commitment to provide clean, safe and enjoyable recreational boating in Washington, the State Parks Boating Programs Office serves as the grant coordinator for Washington. The program also provides boater education programs to promote public awareness about boat sewage and its proper disposal.
Who is eligible?
The Clean Vessel Act grant funds are available to both the public and private sector boating facility operators. This includes governmental entities and private businesses operating public boating facilities in Washington state.
What does the grant cover?
The grant will reimburse recipients for up to 75 percent of the installed cost of pumpout and dump stations. This includes the cost of new equipment, renovation of existing equipment, pumps, piping, lift stations, on-site holding tanks, pier or dock modifications, signs, permits and other miscellaneous equipment needed for a complete and efficient station.
The grant will not pay for the construction or renovation of upland restroom facilities, sewage treatment plants, septic tanks, leach fields, private and municipal treatment plants or other special treatment devices.
What is the cost to grant recipients?
Grant recipients are responsible for at least 25 percent of the installed costs of pumpout and dump station facilities provided for under the grant program. This 25 percent match can be the fair market value of any labor or materials provided, or a combination thereof.
Can grant funds be used for reimbursement of a pumpout that has already been installed?
No. Grant money cannot be used to pay for costs of pumpout stations installed before a grant agreement is signed by both parties.
What are grant recipient responsibilities under the program?
- All recreational vessels must have access to the pumpout and dump stations funded under this grant program. The grant recipients must guarantee facilities will be operated, maintained and accessible to all recreation vessels for the full period of their useful life.
- A sign depicting the national pumpout symbol must be installed and clearly visible to boaters.
- An informational sign must be installed at pumpout and dump stations. The sign information should specify fees, restrictions, hours of operation, operating instructions and a contact name and telephone number to call if the facility is inoperable.
- The sign also must acknowledge that the facility was constructed or improved with funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program, through the Washington State Parks Boating Programs Office.
Can grant recipients charge for the use of the pumpout or dump station?
While the state encourages the free use of facilities constructed under this program, a maximum user fee of $5 may be charged. However, during the grant application evaluation process, a higher priority may be given to applicants who propose free use or a lower-than-maximum user fee.
How do those interested in the program apply for a grant?
To apply for the Clean Vessel Act grant, please e-mail boatpumpouts@parks.wa.gov or call (360) 586-6600.
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