State Races to Recover Hundreds of Displaced Boats After Hurricanes Helene and Milton

ALACHUA – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is intensifying its efforts to locate and address the hundreds of vessels displaced across the state after the devastating impact of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

FWC, in a statement released Oct. 24, 2024, said that Florida, celebrated as "The Boating Capital of the World," faced severe challenges as high winds and storm surges from these hurricanes pushed boats ashore, damaged those docked in marinas, and even left some partially or completely submerged in state waters.

To manage the aftermath, FWC has deployed 17 additional officers alongside three derelict vessel (DV) specialists to the heavily affected southwest region of the state. Their mission is to identify and assess boats that have become derelict due to the hurricanes, ensuring safety on the waterways and protecting the environment from potential hazards.

"We understand the difficulties caused by the recent hurricanes," said Maj. Bill Holcomb, FWC's Boating and Waterways Section Leader. "Our officers and DV specialists are working diligently to identify displaced and damaged vessels statewide. We are dedicated to helping boat owners locate their vessels and ensuring the removal of any boats from state waters that threaten the environment, obstruct waterways, or were rendered derelict."

Removing displaced vessels can hasten the recovery and overall resilience of native marine plants and animals. To report a lost or sunken vessel, vessel owners can call the FWC Boating and Waterways Section at 850‐488‐5600. Operators will be available to help Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.   

Options for Vessel Owners

Vessel owners are being encouraged to hire professional salvage companies to recover their boats. This approach aims to minimize further environmental impact, accelerating the recovery of local marine life and ecosystems. However, the FWC recognizes that not all boat owners may have the resources to manage such operations.

In cases where vessels are beyond repair or owners cannot afford to facilitate the salvage, they can initiate a waiver process to relinquish ownership. This can be arranged by contacting the FWC Boating and Waterways Section at 850-488-5600, where representatives can assist with the process. Maj. Holcomb emphasizes the urgency of these actions, noting, "Owners of vessels that have become derelict have 45 days to either remove their vessel or bring it into a non-derelict condition."

Environmental Concerns and Public Safety

Displaced vessels pose multiple risks, including potential oil spills, obstruction of waterways, and damage to marine habitats. FWC’s priority is to manage these risks swiftly, removing boats that could contribute to environmental harm or hinder navigation. Anyone witnessing oil spills or hazardous material releases should contact the State Watch Office at 800-342-3557.

The recovery efforts underscore the importance of community involvement. Those with information about non-vessel debris in state waters are advised to reach out to the Florida Debris Hotline at 850-366-6007. Vessel owners whose boats have washed ashore should coordinate with local sheriff's offices for assistance.

For additional questions or resource materials regarding waterway debris or derelict vessels, call 850-366-6007 or visit FloridaDebrisCleanup.com.

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