State announces bigger grants for pump-out stations for boats

Press Release,  Gov. Kathy Hochul’s Office

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced increased grants through New York’s Clean Vessel Assistance Program. This additional funding will help marinas and municipalities affordably install and upgrade boat sewage pump-outs that reduce pollution and protect the water quality that supports recreation, tourism, fisheries and coastal ecosystems.

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) has awarded $14 million to projects across New York since the program’s inception, supporting one of the nation’s most extensive recreational boating pump-out networks. Boaters can locate facilities using EFC’s online map, making it easy to find nearby services and responsibly dispose of onboard waste.

The map lists three pump-out stations in Orleans County: Medina Canal Basin, Holley at East Avenue along the canal, and the Bald Eagle Marina in Kendall at Lakeland Beach Road.

“New York’s waterways are among some of our greatest assets, and protecting them requires investment and partnerships,” Governor Hochul said. “This funding will help marinas strengthen the waterfront infrastructure that keeps sewage out of our bays, protects marine habitats, and preserves the clean water that communities depend on.”

Available funding has increased to as much as $80,000 for pump-out boats and $40,000 for stationary facilities and upgrades, along with continued support for facility operations, maintenance and public education. The increased funding reflects Governor Hochul’s goal of making clean water infrastructure improvements more affordable.

Pump-out stations may be small pieces of infrastructure, but they have an outsized impact on water quality by giving boaters a simple, convenient way to dispose of onboard sewage. Most of New York State’s coastal waters and connecting waterways are No Discharge Zones, where it is illegal to discharge treated or untreated sewage from boats.

Increased awards will help marinas continue to install new pump-out stations, modernize aging equipment, purchase pump-out boats and maintain existing facilities.

Marina owners, municipalities and eligible nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for grants. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Go to EFC’s website for eligibility requirements, application materials and the Statewide facility map.

The Clean Vessel Assistance Program is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, which is supported by purchases of fishing equipment and motorboat fuels.