For Immediate Release

Date: August 5, 2005

Marine Board Conducts Surveys for Oregon Vessel Waste Disposal Plan

As a result of the Clean Vessel Act grant program, the Oregon State Marine Board has created a survey for boaters and marine facility owners to provide feedback regarding marine waste disposal.

The purpose of these surveys is to improve state marine collection facilities in Oregon, and to promote proper waste disposal. The surveys will also help the Marine Board prioritize sanitary needs throughout the state.

The surveys are used to update the Oregon Waste Disposal Plan, which is required every six years for the Clean Vessel Act grant program. Congress established the Clean Vessel Act in 1992. Since then, the Marine Board has invested nearly three million dollars in 45 pumpouts, 50 dump stations and 19 floating restrooms.

Boater concerns regarding pumpouts and dump stations are addressed in these surveys. In order to approach such concerns, boaters are asked to give information on their use of facilities, and facility owners are asked to provide information on their existing pumpouts, dump stations, and floating restrooms. This information will be helpful in documenting the availability and condition of boat waste collection facilities, assess the need for more sewage facilities, and educate the boating community on proper disposal techniques.

Boaters are encouraged to participate in the surveys listed above by visiting the Marine Board website at www.boatoregon.com. Surveys must be completed by September 2, 2005.

#####