Abandoned and Derelict Vessel (ADV) Program
Introduction
Welcome to the Abandoned and Derelict Vessel (ADV) Program website. On this site you will find background information, resources, and tools, regarding abandoned and derelict vessels.
ADVs create challenges for all levels of government responsible for managing lands and waterways, as they may create a point source of pollution of the environment, create hazards to navigation, threaten infrastructure, and create unsightly accumulations of debris. Too many vessel owners lacking the resources to keep their vessels in functioning condition or to properly dispose of them has resulted in a growing number of vessels abandoned in public lands and waterways. State land holds more than 200 documented ADVs, and many more undocumented cases.
As the state's land manager, DNR manages many lands affected by ADVs now, and that are at risk of being affected in the future. These include tidelands, submerged lands and shorelands.
The ADV program uses its authority under AS 30.30 to prevent more vessels from becoming ADVs by conducting public outreach and education, outlining strategies for dismantling and removing ADVs, and leveraging available funds to support its efforts.
As a developing program focused on protecting important public resources, DNR's ADV Program is striving to engage citizens, communities, and businesses throughout the state to make the Program as effective and robust as possible. Program developments will be reflected in the website, which will be updated frequently with new information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are Abandoned and Derelict Vessels?
By definition (AS 30.30.090) ADVs are vessels that are:
- in immediate danger of sinking, or sunk
- obstructing waterways
- endangering public health and/or safety or the environment
- left on state or municipal property contrary to law
- left on private property without authorization from the owner
How do I get a permit to anchor my vessel in the same location for more than 14 days?
An application for the appropriate land use permit under AS 38.05.850 costs $240, and permit applications are available here. The division will review and consider all applications, but there is no guarantee all applications will result in permits. A full list of Division of Mining, Land, and Water fees is available here.
Will the ADV program help pay for the disposal of my vessel?
No, the ADV program does not provide funding for vessel removal. Vessel owners or responsible parties must pay the costs for removal and remediation.
How do I report a vessel that I believe is an ADV?
Submit reports to dnr.adv@alaska.gov or via call or text at (907)419-4480. When submitting a report, please include as much information as possible, such as the vessel name, registration number, photos, and location.
How do I avoid becoming financially responsible for ADV removal?
- Keep your vessel in good working condition; make sure it is seaworthy and can move under its own power.
- If you are selling your boat, make sure to complete a bill of sale and ensure the new owner completes the proper registration paperwork with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Otherwise, you could still be considered an owner under AS 30.30.170 and financially responsible should the vessel later become abandoned or derelict.
- Before buying a boat, get an inspection done, evaluate how close the vessel is to the end of its useful life, and consider the cost to dispose of it at that time.
- Have an end-of-life plan for your vessel so you know what to do when it reaches the inevitable end of its useful life.
- Consider insuring your vessel.
Does the State of Alaska own the land under water?
Yes, the State of Alaska owns most tidelands, submerged lands, and shorelands where a vessel is most likely to become abandoned or derelict. There are a few exclusions, such as state lands conveyed to municipalities or withdrawn before statehood.
For more information regarding land ownership and interests on state land see SAIL's DMLW Managed Land and Water page. To research ownership of specific lands see DNR's research tools, including Alaska Mapper. Please contact SAIL or the Public Information Center with questions about ownership of specific lands.
What should I do if a vessel spills fuel on state land or waters?
Go to SAIL's spill reporting page for links to notify DEC Prevention Preparedness and Response (PPR), the National Response Center (NRC), and SAIL.
SAIL will coordinate with responding agencies and responsible parties, and assist as appropriate. Find out more about SAIL's role in spill response on SAIL's spill response activities page.
Resources
A 2020 “Blue Ribbon” ADV report lays out the scope of the ADV problem in Western U.S. states, and includes best practice guidelines for dealing with ADVs.
National Response Team — Abandoned Vessel Authorities and Best Practices Guidance