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Pump outs Photo of a pump-out station
 
     
By disposing of boat sewage at pump-out or dump stations, you help improve water quality for everyone. Washington offers more than 100 disposal facilities with a variety of stationary and portable pump outs to provide a convenient way to properly dispose of boat sewage. For additional convenience, on-the-water restrooms and pump-out skiffs also are available. To view a map of sewage pump stations throughout the state and locate a particular marina, visit http://www.parks.wa.gov/boating/pumpout/locations

Pump-out Pointers
Here are some pointers from the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission on how to use pump-out stations properly:

  • Use public toilets on shore whenever possible.
  • Keep your marine sanitation device in good operating condition.
  • Post “use” instructions near head; use rapid-dissolving marine toilet tissue to prevent clogs.
  • Find a pump-out station and follow instructions. It only takes a few minutes to pump the waste out of a 15-gallon holding tank.
  • Rinse water through system for 1 minute upon finishing.

Note: Expensive breakdowns occur when the marina's sewer line gets clogged because of inadequate rinsing. Flushing water through the system is cheap preventative maintenance and helps prevent odor.

Pump-out Holding Tank Only
Pump-outs are not designed to handle bilge water or solid objects. Some boaters pump out their holding tanks and then drive off, leaving the unit still running. Make sure the pump is off before pulling away so it will work for the next boater.

Take a Survey on Boat Pump-Outs

 
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