Federal money targets water pollution from vessel sewage

OLYMPIA, Washington (AP) ― Federal grants totaling $2.5 million has been awarded to prevent sewage pollution in Washington state waters.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service grants will be used to add more locations where recreational boaters and other vessels can pump out their vessel sewage.

Washington State Parks, working with the University of Washington’s Washington Sea Grant, plans to install new septic pump-out facilities, as well as educate boats and marina owners about clean water and proper sewage disposal.

Money will be used to continue or expand pump-out locations, including free pump-out service on Lake Washington, services in Gig Harbor and the San Juan Islands, and pump-out contracts with dozens of 140 marinas. Money will also be used to monitor water quality in Lake Chelan.

Nearly $1.5 million will go to projects on the coast, while $1 million will be used for inland waters.