Database to Track Abandoned and Derelict Vessels
The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water, in collaboration with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program, has launched the first-ever national database dedicated to tracking the location and removal status of ADVs across the United States and its territories.
ADVs represent more than just environmental blight—they are direct hazards. These deteriorating vessels clutter anchorages, impede safe navigation channels and are a major source of pollution. Leaking fuels and chemicals degrade water quality, while submerged hulls and debris can damage sensitive marine ecosystems, including critical corals and vegetation.
The newly launched database allows members of the public—including vigilant sailors, marina operators, and cruising enthusiasts—to easily report the specific locations of abandoned vessels on their coastlines. This collective input is vital, as it shifts the understanding of ADVs from a collection of local problems to a manageable, national-scale challenge.
According to BoatUS Foundation Director of Outreach Alanna Keating, a clear national picture will allow local communities to allocate resources more effectively, targeting both removal efforts and prevention strategies.
“By tracking removal success over time, the database will ultimately demonstrate the positive impact of these programs. Beyond the database, the Foundation is actively supporting regional cleanup efforts through grants in several coastal areas. By actively using this new tool, the boating community can directly contribute to cleaner, safer, and more navigable waters for everyone,” she said.
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