Whether you’re new to boating or have spent decades on the water, you’ve probably heard advice at the fuel dock or around the marina that gets repeated often enough to sound like fact. Unfortunately, some of those boating myths can have serious consequences for both boaters and the marine environment.
To help separate fact from fiction, the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is reminding boaters of a few common misconceptions surrounding sewage disposal, oil spills and pump-out stations.
One of the biggest myths involves overboard sewage discharge.
Despite what some boaters may believe, it is never acceptable to discharge untreated sewage into the water. Human waste introduces bacteria that differ from naturally occurring marine bacteria, contributing to oxygen-depleted “dead zones” that can negatively affect fish and other aquatic life.
In addition, both treated and untreated sewage are prohibited from being discharged in designated no-discharge zones. According to DBW, the best practice is to empty onboard holding tanks at a shoreside pump-out station or dump station before heading out on the water.
Another misconception is that small oil spills don’t need to be reported.
According to DBW, any oil spill that creates a visible sheen on the water must be reported, regardless of its size. Federal and state regulations require boaters to notify the National Response Center at 800-424-8802 and the California Office of Emergency Services at 800-OILS-911. This requirement applies not only to the person responsible for the spill but also to witnesses.
Even small amounts of oil can spread rapidly across the water’s surface, harming fish, birds and other marine life. Reporting spills promptly allows trained professionals to respond quickly and minimize environmental damage.
DBW is also working to dispel the notion that pump-out stations are difficult to locate or unpleasant to use.
In reality, California maintains an extensive network of pump-out and dump stations, many of which can be found using the free Pumpout Nav mobile app. The app helps boaters locate nearby facilities before they leave the dock or while underway.
Using shoreside pump-out facilities remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent accidental sewage discharges. For boaters looking to reduce maintenance even further, DBW also notes that marine composting toilets may be another environmentally friendly option.
As Southern California’s boating season continues to heat up, DBW encourages boaters to review clean boating practices before heading offshore. Small actions, such as properly disposing of sewage, reporting oil spills and using pump-out stations, can make a significant difference in protecting California’s harbors, bays and coastal waters for future generations.
