EPA solicits public comment for proposal to limit sewage discharges from vessels within the Indian River-Vero Beach to Fort Pierce Aquatic Preserve

EPA solicits public comment for proposal to limit sewage discharges from vessels within the Indian River-Vero Beach to Fort Pierce Aquatic Preserve

August 6, 2024

Tallahassee, Fla. (August 6, 2024) - Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) tentatively affirmed the State of Florida's request to designate the waters within the Indian River-Vero Beach to Fort Pierce Aquatic Preserve (the Preserve) as a vessel sewage no-discharge zone. This action is intended to protect and enhance the quality of waters within the 9,500-acre Preserve, a designated estuary of national significance. These estuaries are threatened by pollution, development or overuse. The EPA's tentative decision is subject to a 30-day public comment period.

Sewage discharges include pollutants ranging from nutrients and metals to endocrine disrupters and pathogens. These discharges can impair water quality, adversely affect aquatic environments, and increase risks to human health. A no-discharge zone is a designated area where the discharge of sewage from vessels, either treated or untreated, is prohibited.

The Preserve stretches 12 miles from the southern Vero Beach corporate limit to the north U.S. Highway A1A bridge in Fort Pierce in Indian River and St. Lucie counties. The EPA determined that adequate facilities are available for the safe and sanitary removal and treatment of sewage from all vessels within the proposed no-discharge zone.

Public input is critical in shaping environmental policies as well as protecting and preserving natural resources. Comments on this action may be submitted through September 5, 2024.

The Federal Register Notice and associated instructions for submitting public comments can be found at https://regulations.gov using Docket number EPA-R04-OW-2024-0379.

More information about vessel sewage discharges: www.epa.gov/vessels-marinas-and-ports/vessel-sewage-discharges

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