PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Calvert County’s Department of Public Works (DPW) requested permission from county commissioners (BOCC) at their April 14 meeting to seek support on the operation and maintenance of marina pumpout stations.
The 2026 boating season runs from April 15 to Nov. 15, 2026, and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources offers an annual grant to help local communities with the above expense. Upon approval, the Department of Natural Resources will reimburse the county up to $5,000 for eligible pumpout expenses incurred during that period.
This grant is subject to the availability of federal and state funds and applies only to the 2026 boating season.
A boat pumpout is the process of removing sewage and waste from a boat’s holding tank, or sanitation system, using specialized equipment. The waste is then transferred to a nearby facility or treatment plant.
Pumpout procedures at local pumpout stations are required by law — boats are not allowed to discard untreated waste. The process helps keep saltwater fresh and clean.
Thomas Jones, deputy director of General Services at Calvert’s DPW, confirmed during questioning from the county commissioners that the program has never cost the county anything in several years of participating, and the services provided through the grant are free to residents.
The BOCC voted unanimously to allow DPW to submit the grant.
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