New Pumpout Boat Destined for Eastern Shore

To help protect the Wye and Miles rivers, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources secured federal funding for a new pumpout boat on the Eastern Shore. The vessel will join two other public-service pumpout boats, which serve Annapolis and Shady Side.

“Given that this is such a popular destination for boaters, we are grateful that we were able to secure this pumpout vessel for our partners and those who enjoy these waters,” Boating Director Mark O’Malley said.

The lower Wye River is a popular anchorage but currently has no marinas or pump out stations. The Miles River and St. Michaels Harbor see thousands of boats each summer and, although they have several fixed pumpout stations, this vessel will provide boaters an even more convenient waste disposal service.

Purchased used for $40,000, the boat has been refurbished with a new outboard engine and a new pump. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service covered 75 percent of the cost with funding from the Clean Vessel Act with the remaining 25 percent provided by the MidShore Riverkeeper Conservancy. Owned and managed by the Conservancy, it will operate weekends and holidays from May 14 through Oct. 16, 2016.

The vessel will make its debut at the annual Blessing of the Fleet event on April 14 at the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, which will provide free dockage to the boat. Learn more at cbmm.org.

For more information on pumpout grants, please contact Agency Grants Specialist Christie Martinez at christie.martinez@maryland.gov. Questions on the boat or its operations should be directed to the MidShore Riverkeeper Conservancy at 443-485-0511.