Ocean Protection Plan: Reducing the Number of Wrecked and Abandoned Vessels

The Ocean Protection Plan (OPP) has numerous objectives, including reducing the number of wrecked and abandoned vessels. Through this initiative, the Government of Canada hopes to decrease the potential environmental impacts associated with the presence of these vessels. To that end, Fisheries and Oceans Canada has established a dedicated program that has received funding of $1.325 million.

The program is designed to support the safe and responsible removal and disposal of vessels of concern, such as grounded or sunken vessels. The initiative targets abandoned and wrecked vessels in small craft harbours under the Department's responsibility.

Harbour authorities, Aboriginal groups and other eligible individuals or groups are responsible for disposing of the wrecked or abandoned vessel. They can apply for financial assistance in this regard for disposal operations. For example, the Department will cover up to $5,000 of the cost of gaining legal possession of an abandoned or wrecked vessel and assessing the cost of disposal. The ensuing costs may be reimbursed up to a maximum of $50,000. Note that the organizations undertaking these projects must contribute at least 25% of the cost of removing the wrecked or abandoned vessel.

The Department is currently accepting applications until February 15, 2018, for financial assistance for the 2018–2019 fiscal year. It will review all applications and sign contribution agreements with successful applicants. All projects must be completed by March 31, 2022. As a result, partially sunken or grounded vessels or vessels abandoned by their owners or with expired registration numbers, for example, could finally vacate certain fishing harbours under the Department's responsibility. 

Additional information on the Small Craft Harbours Abandoned and Wrecked Vessels Removal Program

Bernard Beaudoin
Small Craft Harbours