By Michael V. Cusenza
The City Parks Department’s Office of Marine Debris Removal and Vessel Surrendering removed a total of 18 abandoned and unwanted vessels from around Jamaica Bay in the month of September alone, according to City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park).
The new office, the first of its kind in the Empire State, was created in April 2024 by legislation sponsored by Ariola. It is tasked with keeping the city waterfront clear of marine hazards like derelict boats, creating a safer environment for boaters, waterfront enjoyers, and marine life.
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
A 34-foot Sea Ray under tow out of Broad Channel.
“In just a short time, they’ve made a visible impact in cleaning up Jamaica Bay. I’m proud to have created this office and I look forward to building on its success so future generations can enjoy cleaner, safer waters here and throughout this city,” the councilwoman said on Monday.
All of the vessels taken by the program are brought to a facility operated by contractor Miller’s Launch in Staten Island, where they are drained of fluids and dissembled. All metal components are separated out at the facility and collected by a metal salvage company, while the remaining debris is crushed and disposed of as landfill.
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
A Bayliner removed from Broad Channel.
“The recently created Office of Marine Debris Removal and Vessel Surrendering has had a tremendous positive impact on Jamaica Bay,” said Dan Mundy, president of the Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers, a Broad Channel-based organization dedicated to the preservation, protection, enhancement and restoration of the Jamaica Bay ecosystem. “To date, they’ve removed hundreds of abandoned vessels, docks and large pieces of debris from the water and off of the wetlands. This year we see a new element to this effort with the boat turn-in program, which allows boat owners to turn in old, no longer used vessels before they break loose and float out and harm the environment.”
