Help For Captains Harboring Dilapidated Ships

Photo by Tracey Petersen

Tuolumne County, CA – The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Department has found a way to get rid of some of the derelict vessels that are eyesores on waterways and properties for free.

The California Division of Boating and Waterways has awarded the department a “Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange” (SAVE) grant.  The $29,500 allocation will fund the removal and disposal of broken-down, abandoned vessels that create hazards on the water and ground.  Sheriff’s spokesperson Sgt. Andrea Benson explains, “Even if you have lost the title or if the vessel has been abandoned on your property the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s vehicle abatement office can still assist with the removal.”

The grant runs two years or until the money runs out.  Sgt. Benson outlines the guidelines, stating, “There is no official deadline to submit a removal request.  There is not a size limitation for the boat or an amount of vessels that you can dispose of, as well as, no cost limit.”

This is the first awarding of a SAVE grant to the sheriff’s office and Sgt. Benson indicates that if all goes well, they plan to apply for the grant again.  To inquire about disposing of a vessel, contact the Sheriff’s Vehicle Abatement Office at 209-533-5866.