Senate Bill 2735 targets abandoned boats on Minnesota waterways for stricter enforcement

During a recent meeting of the Minnesota Senate's Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety, lawmakers discussed a significant legislative proposal aimed at addressing the growing issue of abandoned watercraft in the state. Senate File 2735, introduced by Senator Seaburger, seeks to create a more effective system for holding boat owners accountable for their abandoned vessels, which have become a pressing concern for both environmental safety and public resources.

The bill was prompted by a specific incident involving a 54-foot yacht that has been abandoned on Biercan Island in the Saint Croix River since the summer of 2024. This vessel has accumulated over $44,000 in fines, highlighting the limitations of current enforcement measures. Under the proposed legislation, abandoned boats would be tagged and owners would have 14 days to claim them before the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) removes the vessel at the owner's expense. Additionally, owners could face civil and criminal penalties for abandonment.

Senator Seaburger emphasized the bipartisan nature of the bill, noting that it reflects a collaborative effort between Minnesota and Wisconsin to protect the natural beauty of their waterways. The senator shared that the issue of abandoned boats is not isolated to the Saint Croix River; it is a statewide problem, with many residents expressing frustration over the lack of accountability for boat owners who leave their vessels behind.

Colonel Rodman Smith from the DNR supported the bill, stating that the problem of abandoned boats is growing nationally and that similar legislation is being considered in other states. He explained that the bill provides a framework for local jurisdictions to manage abandoned watercraft more effectively, which currently often go unaddressed due to insufficient legal recourse.

While the bill received general support, some committee members raised concerns about potential unintended consequences, such as shifting the problem of abandoned boats to private properties. Others pointed out the high costs associated with disposing of old boats, which may lead some owners to abandon them instead of paying for removal.

The discussion highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue of abandoned watercraft, balancing accountability with practical solutions for boat owners. As the bill moves forward, it aims to not only address the immediate problem of abandoned vessels but also to foster responsible ownership and environmental stewardship among Minnesota's boating community.