A federal program initiated in Michigan in 1994 provides additional pump-out and dump station opportunities in the state's coastal waters.
Public and private marinas have the opportunity to secure new pump-outs and dump stations or upgrade their existing facilities thanks to the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Boat Pump-out Grant Program, a federally subsidized, grant-in-aid program. This program was created through enactment of the Federal Clean Vessel Act (Public Law 102-587, Subtitle F) of 1992, and is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through state agencies. The act authorized the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to make grants to states to construct/renovate pump-outs and dump stations and for implementing associated education programs.
The grant funding for the CVA Program comes from the Sport Fish Restoration account of the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund, commonly known as the Wallop-Breaux Fund. In conjunction with the grant program, participating coastal states conduct a comprehensive survey and plan to determine existing capabilities of recreational boating facilities for marine sewage waste disposal. It also provides information needed to evaluate current and projected market needs in order to upgrade and expand availability of pump-outs and dump stations.
All pump-outs and dump stations provided for under the CVA Boat Pump-out Grant Program are available for public use. A list of all marinas receiving grants, for the installation of pump-outs or dump stations is available by contacting the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at 517-241-4934.
The elimination and reduction of pollutants, nutrients and general refuse at marinas and boat launches is the mission for Michigan's Clean Marina Program. The voluntary program is aimed at preserving Michigan's aquatic gems. In order to receive designation as a Clean Marina, participants complete a 10-step process including training, a self-evaluation checklist, a site visit and evaluation. Clean Marinas set the standard in environmental responsibility for other marinas in the state. To learn more about this program call 517-241-5179.