Unmasking the Rise of ‘Ghost Boats’: How Supercharged Hurricanes Are Transforming Our Waterways

For almost three years, drivers on San Carlos Island, Florida, were met with a peculiar sight: a large white boat tangled in the mangroves along a main road. This boat was a remnant of Hurricane Ian in 2022, which wreaked havoc, displacing over 7,000 vessels due to fierce winds and heavy rains.

Recently, that abandoned boat was finally removed. John Cassidy, a local boat captain, expressed mixed emotions about its departure, saying, “It’s a sign of progress. We need to clean this place up.”

Across the U.S., countless abandoned boats pose environmental challenges. Many of these vessels, damaged by storms fueled by climate change, pollute our waters and disrupt ecosystems. The cost of removing just one boat can exceed $24,000, leading to delays in cleanup efforts.

Many states lack structured plans for dealing with abandoned boats. To help, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has partnered with nonprofits to fund removal projects. However, as we approach another Atlantic hurricane season, the potential for new ghost ships lurking in our waterways is high.

It’s crucial to note that the effects of a hurricane can linger for years. Take Hurricane Katrina, for example, which hit 20 years ago. Many communities are still in recovery, especially among Black populations who face ongoing mental and physical health challenges from that disaster.

Boats are often at risk during hurricanes. Michael Moore, of the BoatUS Foundation, highlights the difficulty of locating displaced vessels. If a boat travels far from its original mooring, recovery becomes a complex challenge.

Last year, Florida experienced back-to-back hurricanes that displaced hundreds of boats, adding to the ongoing problem. Delays in removal can worsen the issue. For instance, a fishing vessel in the Northern Mariana Islands sat abandoned for years until finally removed in 2021.

Sometimes, boat owners abandon their vessels due to high disposal costs. Recently, Florida officials spent $195,000 to remove a decaying submarine from a canal, and the owner faced penalties for neglect.

Abandoned boats contribute to pollution, leaking harmful substances into the ocean. This not only threatens marine life, but it also poses risks for active boaters who may not see these hidden hazards.

In New York City alone, experts estimate around 500 abandoned boats pollute local waters. The city is now launching a boat turn-in program to combat this issue. Additionally, recent aftereffects of Hurricane Fiona led to the recovery of over 690 tons of lost fishing gear in Canada, highlighting ongoing challenges with marine debris.

The problem isn’t just about restorable boats; it’s complex. Over time, these abandoned vessels can become part of marine ecosystems, complicating removal efforts. Moore emphasizes the need for thorough environmental reviews before any action is taken.

Despite the challenges, there is hope. Recent legislation in Florida allows for the removal of derelict boats without owner consent if conditions permit. NOAA has also allocated substantial funding for marine debris cleanup in several states.

Ultimately, as hurricane season nears, it’s vital for boat owners to take preventive measures. Securing boats and checking forecasts can help mitigate potential damage.

These efforts highlight the broader issue of how climate change impacts our waterways and the steps we must take to address the growing problem of abandoned vessels. Engaging with local resources and staying informed can make a significant difference.

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