Tuesday, July 18

Monroe County’s Marine Resources Office, in coordination with FWC, has developed a pilot Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) for the Florida Keys. The program is designed to prevent anchored vessels in poor condition – but still floating – from becoming derelict or abandoned – and harming and polluting marine habitat and creating navigation hazards. The VTIP program is free for eligible boat owners (based on funding availability) who would like to properly dispose of their anchored “end-of-life” boats that are between 16-40 feet long and who do not have the financial resources to pay for removal and disposal. Information is also available on the County website www.monroecounty-fl.gov/VTIP and will be distributed to marinas and other areas frequented by mariners.