The EPA has introduced regulations known as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) which would require permitting of all vessels and regulation types of discharge from those vessels. The regulation is targeted at commercial ships which have large ballast tanks. Most pleasure craft do not have these tanks. This additional permit for recreational boaters (RGP) is not as restrictive as the the vessel general permit for craft over 79 feet, and does not cover as many discharge types. The RGP permit may cost from $8.79 to $25.99 per year for motorboats, $5.39 to $22.59 for sailboats, and $0.29 to $2.39 per year for non-motorized small craft.

A bill, known as the Clean Boating Act of 2008, has been introduced which distinguishes between the recreational boats and commercial vessels.

As responsible boaters we should be aware of the regulations being passed that affect us and our environment. Please take a moment to look over the information on this site and see where you stand on this issue: www.boatblue.org

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