Maryland marinas have until April 15, 2026 to submit applications for state grants designed to help cover the costs of operating and maintaining sewage pumpout facilities for recreational boats. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources announced the availability of funding through their Marine Sewage Pumpout Grant program.
These grants reimburse marina operators for various expenses related to pumpout station upkeep, including equipment repairs, replacement parts, and labor costs. The facilities serve a crucial environmental purpose by giving boat owners a proper way to dispose of waste from their vessels, which helps keep harmful pollutants out of Maryland’s waters and supports broader efforts to improve Chesapeake Bay water quality.
The grant program receives its funding through a combination of federal and state sources. Three-quarters of the money comes from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service via the Clean Vessel Act, while the remaining 25% is supplied by Maryland’s Waterway Improvement Fund. Recreational boaters themselves generate this funding through federal taxes on fishing gear, boat fuel, and small engine fuel, as well as import fees. Maryland boat owners also contribute when they pay excise taxes during the vessel titling process.
Marina owners interested in applying can access application materials through the Department of Natural Resources website or reach out directly to the program coordinator at [email protected] or by calling 410-260-8772.
