BoatUS Foundation’s ADV Database

In 2023, The BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water was awarded a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association Marine Debris Program for the removal of abandoned and derelict vessels (ADVs). The project components also include the development of a national database to track ADVs in the United States, U.S. Territories and Freely Associated States. To learn more about the ADV Removal Grant Program please visit this page.

The BoatUS Foundation, utilizing MyCoast as the platform, created this database to provide a place for organizations and the public to report ADVs, which helps identify problem areas and quantify the scope, and track prevention and removal efforts, etc. By reporting and tracking ADVs on a national scale, we're hopeful the database will help to better understand the issue, work with states and communities to address it, and track efforts being made with the intention of providing solutions. Benefits of the data includes:

Informing the public: Tracking ADVs can enhance public awareness about the problem and encourage responsible boating practices to prevent the occurrence of ADVs.

Addressing environmental hazards: ADVs can pose navigation, safety, and pollution hazards to communities and the environment. Tracking helps in assessing the impact of ADVs and determining the need for action.

Preventing the spread of ADVs: By identifying and tracking ADVs, authorities can take proactive measures to prevent the introduction of new ADVs into waterways and marine environments.

Supporting removal efforts: Information on ADVs can assist in planning andexecuting removal efforts, which may involve specialized equipment and resources.

Facilitating collaboration: Tracking ADVs can facilitate collaboration among various agencies and stakeholders to address the problem effectively.

If you are with an organization or government agency who would like to contact the BoatUS Foundation about the ADV Database, please contact us here.

This project is supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.