OCEANPROD – STOCK.ADOBE.COMThe Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is accepting applications for its new Vessel Turn-In Program. In a statement, the organization called the program “a key component of Florida’s derelict vessel prevention.”
VTIP is voluntary and is designed to help owners dispose of unwanted, at-risk vessels before they become derelict. Once an application is approved, VTIP will take a surrendered vessel and dispose of it at no cost to the boat owner. Removing a boat before it deteriorates into a derelict condition can prevent legal ramifications for the owner and protects the state’s seagrass resources, marine and human life, safety and property.
A derelict vessel in state waters is a criminal offense that can carry serious penalties, fines or even jail time.
“Acting now is the best way to prevent legal action from occurring if the vessel becomes derelict,” Phil Horning, VTIP administrator, said in the statement.
To qualify for VTIP, a vessel must be floating upon waters of the state of Florida and cannot be determined derelict by law enforcement. In addition, the owner must have at least one written at-risk warning or citation and possess a clear title to the vessel.
