RECREATION

SEWAGE DISPOSAL

Dumping untreated sewage into coastal waters may contaminate shellfish, which if eaten by humans, can cause severe gastrointestinal illness or infectious hepatitis. Human wastes also contain the nutrients which contribute to algal blooms and oxygen depletion. Protect coastal waters by minimizing or eliminating the discharge of boat sewage.

  • Use on-shore sanitary facilities whenever possible.
  • Chlorine and other disinfectants are used in marine sanitation devices. Chlorine degrades water quality and negatively impacts aquatic life. Discharge should occur only when necessary and in offshore waters deeper than 20 feet, where tidal movement will disperse treated waste.
Previous Back to Contents Next Page

YOTO Home The International Year of the Ocean Home Page is a publication of the NOAA Home Page Design and Construction Company