Clean Vessel Act Grant Program

The Clean Vessel Act Grant Program is administered in Ohio by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft in partnership with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The program originates from federal legislation designed to improve water quality and environmental conditions by supporting infrastructure that enables proper disposal of sewage from recreational vessels. Funding is derived from the Sport Fish Restoration Account of the Aquatic Resources Trust Fund, which is supported through excise taxes on fishing equipment, boating-related imports, and fuel taxes. Since its authorization in Ohio in 1998, the program has been implemented to expand and enhance waste reception facilities across the state’s waterways. The primary purpose of the grant is to fund the construction, renovation, installation, and maintenance of pumpout and dump station facilities that remove sewage from recreational boats. These systems are essential for preventing contamination in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, thereby protecting public health and supporting tourism and recreation. The program emphasizes projects that improve access to waste disposal services in areas with high recreational boating activity, low water flushing rates, or environmental sensitivity such as designated no discharge areas. Funding under this program covers up to 100 percent of approved project costs related to eligible components. Allowable expenses include the purchase and installation of pumpout equipment, plumbing and electrical connections, lift stations, portable units, labor, and docks used exclusively for pumpout operations. However, certain costs are explicitly excluded, including construction of general sewer systems, restroom facilities, or projects that are not accessible to the public. All funded facilities must remain open to the public and meet operational, safety, and sanitation standards. Eligible applicants include public and private marinas as well as other boating facilities that serve recreational vessels. A key requirement is that all funded pumpout or dump stations must be accessible for public use. Recipients are also required to operate and maintain the funded facilities for a minimum of eight years following project completion. Additional compliance requirements include adherence to the Americans with Disabilities Act, non-discrimination policies, and securing all necessary local and state permits prior to construction. The application process is ongoing and does not have a fixed deadline, allowing applicants to submit proposals at any time subject to available funding. Applications must be submitted via email directly to the designated grants coordinator. The application requires detailed project descriptions, cost estimates, site information, justification narratives, and supporting documentation such as maps and contractor estimates. Applicants must not begin any project work prior to receiving formal approval and a signed agreement from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, as pre-award costs are not eligible for reimbursement. Once an application is approved, project costs are negotiated and formalized through an agreement between the applicant and the state agency. Construction may begin only after official authorization is issued. Reimbursement is provided after the applicant submits proof of payment for completed work. The program may include site visits and inspections during and after construction to ensure compliance. Facilities must also display signage acknowledging federal funding and indicating availability of pumpout services. There is no recurring deadline structure for this program, as applications are accepted continuously. Award timing depends on application review, funding availability, and project readiness. Applicants are encouraged to coordinate closely with the grants administrator throughout the process to ensure compliance and successful project execution. The program plays a critical role in maintaining Ohio’s water quality and supporting sustainable recreational boating infrastructure.

Ensure accurate cost estimates aligned with future construction costs; do not begin work prior to approval; prioritize public accessibility and environmental impact; include complete documentation and attachments