Abandoning boats not cool

Photo: Boating BC Association

What happens to old, or derelict boats once they have hit the end of their useful life?

Some end up abandoned or sunk to the bottom of a lake because owners either don't know, or don't care about available options.

Representatives of the Boating BC Association will be at the annual Kelowna Boat Show this weekend to educate boat owners about the Abandoned Boats Program.

The annual Kelowna Boat Show runs Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kelowna Yacht Club.

"The vast majority of boaters are responsible, but not all – and we need to ensure this issue is not a recurring one," says association president Don Prittie.

"Step one is educating boat owners and ensuring they know how and where they can dispose of their vessels. To that end, our Association has also created a data base with information about where and how to dispose of a boat at the end of its life."

While abandoned and derelict boats are an eyesore, Prittie says they pose an even greater danger. He says these boats could wash ashore or sink, releasing fuels or toxins which can put marine life and habitat at risk.

There are companies in the Okanagan and Shuswap that can help with the safe disposal, transportation or recycling of old boats.

Click here for a list of options available to you.