Kitsap County successfully removed a 30-foot abandoned sailboat this month demonstrating the effectiveness of local and state collaboration in the derelict vessel removal program. The vessel, submerged since 2020, was located approximately 150 yards offshore in Lemolo, between Keyport and Poulsbo's Liberty Bay.
Global Diving crews executed the removal operation, first addressing the mast and collapsed rigging, before using lift bags to refloat the hull. Crews then transported the vessel offsite for future disposal.
This removal project, costing approximately $38,000, represents an early success for the County's comprehensive initiative, funded through the National Estuary Program Habitat Strategic Initiative. The program, administered jointly by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), aims to protect Kitsap County's extensive marine shoreline, which includes twelve port districts, numerous piers and marinas, and four incorporated cities.
"The successful removal of this abandoned boat highlights our commitment to protecting Liberty Bay and Kitsap County's important marine resources," said Christine Rolfes, Chair of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners. "This new program creates a coordinated approach across jurisdictions, addressing a critical gap in vessel tracking and enforcement that has historically challenged our local authorities."
Removing the vessel in Lemolo required extensive coordination between multiple stakeholders, including three private tidelands owners, the Port of Poulsbo, DNR, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Global Diving conducted the removal operation using specialized equipment and expertise.
"By facilitating the coordination of our cities, port districts, and law enforcement agencies, we aim to strengthen the existing DNR Derelict Vessel Program's effectiveness within Kitsap County waters over the next two years."said DCD program supervisor Kirvie Mesebeluu-Yobech.
In a region known for its commercial fishing, aquaculture industries, and recreational boating, the new program aims to preserve both the environmental and economic value of Kitsap County's waters.
"Abandoned vessels pose significant risks to our marine environment and maritime industries," said Rafe Wysham, Director of Community Development. "These vessels can damage marine beds and submerged aquatic vegetation through grounding and dragging anchors. They are navigation hazards and pose risks to water quality that can impact local tribal shellfish harvesting areas. Our new program allows us to address these environmental concerns more effectively while working across jurisdictional boundaries."
The Department of Community Development has launched a dedicated project website where residents can learn more about the program and report abandoned vessels. For more information, visit our Derelict Vessel Removal Program webpage.
About Kitsap County's Derelict Vessel Removal Program
The program works in partnership with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources to identify, prioritize, and remove abandoned and derelict vessels from Kitsap County waters. Through regular stakeholder meetings and cross-jurisdictional coordination, the program focuses on developing long-term solutions for vessel removal while protecting environmental and maritime safety. The initiative is funded through the National Estuary Program Habitat Strategic Initiative and will continue through 2026.
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