Derelict Vessel Informational Public Workshop

Description

There is a regulated process as to claiming and removing a derelict vessel. To learn more about this process, join Lt. Darrin Riley, statewide derelict vessel coordinator and Phil Horning, FWC statewide derelict vessel planner to learn more about the at risk and derelict vessel classification program and removal process. At risk derelict vessels are a concern for the boating public in the state of Florida. Presently, state, county, and local law enforcement officers are keeping their eyes on these vessels. If an officer sees a vessel that is in a derelict condition or at risk of becoming a derelict vessel, he or she will conduct an investigation and enter the vessel information into a statewide database. The officer will leave a notice on the vessel for the owner to take action. In the state of Florida, there are no "Vessel Salvage Rights." In order to claim title to an abandoned vessel, you must follow the statutes for found property (F.S.705.102) FS which requires a person to report found property to law enforcement (the local sheriff office). The process is called a constructive seizure and will take approximately 90 days to complete. After this has been done and FWC officers clear the vessel, you may begin the process of claiming found property. This workshop is for the general public, community decision makers, boaters, fishermen and community members. There will be formal training for sworn law enforcement the following day. Any law enforcement agency may attend. For additional information, please contact Chris Verlinde at 850-623-3868 or by emailing chrismv@ufl.edu.