The BoatUS Foundation partnered with Lynnhaven River and TowBoatUS at ports Gwynns Island and Portsmouth to remove 10 abandoned derelict vessels (ADVs) from waterways across Gloucester and Portsmouth, VA. This initiative is aimed at addressing navigational hazards and environmental impacts of ADVs on coastal Virginia waterways. The removals took place April 14–16 and are part of a broader effort to remove up to 100 ADVs in the area.
Lynnhaven River NOW’s project brought together nonprofit, government, and private partners to address the growing environmental and navigational risks posed by abandoned boats. This project is supported by a 2023 award from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program.
“Abandoned boats don’t just disappear. They become a burden on communities, the environment, and local economies,” said Alanna Keating, director of outreach at BoatUS Foundation. “By connecting trusted partners, we are addressing the issue of ADVs and making real progress toward cleaner, safer Virginia waterways.”
Removing abandoned vessels provides immediate benefits to local waterways and communities. Left unattended, these vessels can leak fuel, create navigation hazards, and harm marine ecosystems and shorelines. Their removal enhances boater safety, safeguards natural habitats, and helps prevent lasting environmental damage…