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Sewage, MSD's and
Pumpout -
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The Topic:
Onboard sewage management is not a fun thing to
think about, but it is a necessary part of your
boat's systems. Over the last few years, there has
been significant attention in the boating press
about onboard heads, marine sanitation devices,
portable toilets, and the availability of onshore
pumpout stations. Here's a quick overview of the
issues, as well as the laws relating to this
subject. |
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Why Should I Care?
No one wants to think about settling down in the
cockpit after putting the anchor down and glancing
out on the water to see floating toilet paper go
by. However, if boaters follow existing laws, this
won't occur. You can help take care of our harbors
and other waters by following the law and making
sure that your boat's MSD is working.
The Law:
Federal law says that untreated sewage (even if it's
been dosed with a deodorant product) can NOT be
discharged in U.S. waters out to 3 miles offshore.
This means the sewage from a portable toilet or a
Type III holding tank can not be discharged unless
you are in the ocean more than 3 miles offshore.
You are not required to have a toilet/head on your
boat. (In fact, many people choose a portable
toilet on their boat.) However, if you do have an
installed toilet on your boat, you must have a USCG
certified MSD Type I, II, or III attached to that
toilet.
Federal law states that if you have a holding tank
for untreated waste with a "Y" valve, it must be
secured in the closed position while operating in
U.S. waters. Using a non-releasable wire tie,
padlock, or removal of the valve handle is
considered adequate securing of the device. |
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Did you know?....there are federal funds (from the
Clean Vessel Act) currently available to the states
to install more pumpout stations for boaters. |
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What Can I Do?
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When tied up to a dock, use onshore facilities.
Encourage guests to take advantage of the
onshore restrooms before you set out for a day
trip - to reduce the amount of waste you need to
worry about on your boat.
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Make sure your boat has a working MSD, and
regularly maintain it an the attached plumbing.
Where possible, install the best hose you can
afford to reduce odors.
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Pump out before you haul your boat for the
winter.
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Annapolis, Maryland office
147 Old Solomons Island Road,
Suite 513
Annapolis, Maryland 21401 |
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Alexandria, Virginia office
880 South Pickett Street
Alexandria, Virginia
(703) 823-9550 x3200 |
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©
2005 BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and
Clean Water |
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