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Abandoned vessels affecting the First Coast

MAYPORT, Fla – Florida lawmakers are trying to handle a problem that Florida Fish and Wildlife says “plagues” the state.

They are hoping to put nearly $20 million towards a program that reimburses local governments for removing abandoned boats. They’ve already approved nearly $8.5 million of that.

Captain Curtis Caruthers of Sea Tow Jacksonville said he has worked on the water for 25 years and says these vessels make it difficult for boaters to navigate.

“People complain about them whenever they sink or there’s an issue with navigation that’s when they become a problem,” Caruthers said.

Related: Florida lawmakers pass record $112B budget. The 10 big issues in the 2022 legislative session

Caruthers said the vessels can’t be removed without the owner’s permission. Caruthers continues to state It could cost between $5,000-$10,000 to properly dispose of a boat.

“We have to do whatever the owner of the boat tells us what to do,” Caruthers said.

Boat owners who intentionally abandon a ship can face penalties.

The Federal Wildlife Conservation says dumping a vessel in state waters is a third-degree felony.

State lawmakers are trying to put an extra $11 million towards helping local governments remove them from public waters.

The proposal was listed by the House and Senate Monday morning. It’s still awaiting approval.


About the Author
Brianna Andrews headshot

This native of the Big Apple joined the News4Jax team in July 2021.

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