Foundation Event Addresses Sewage Crisis in Passagoula River

The Mississippi Advisory Commission on Marine Resources convened on May 21, 2025, to address critical issues affecting the state's waterways and marine resources. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing sewage problem in the Pascagoula River, which has been exacerbated by houseboat activities leading to water contamination. The commission is exploring solutions, including the potential use of barges to collect and transport sewage away from the river, aiming to improve water quality in the Mississippi Sound. This initiative is expected to require millions of dollars, and the commission is seeking federal assistance to fund the project.

In addition to the sewage issue, the commission reported on the status of derelict vessels, noting that 92 cases have been recorded since tracking began. Of these, 68 vessels have been successfully removed, while 24 are pending removal and 8 are currently under court order for removal.

The meeting also covered several actions taken since the previous gathering, including the approval of a no-wake zone extension at Percy Miller Park and a variance for habitat restoration on Deer Island. However, a request from the City of Ocean Springs for a concrete walkway on East Beach Drive was denied.

As the summer season approaches, the commission is ramping up efforts to ensure safety and compliance in marine activities, with law enforcement reporting over 1,400 checks conducted in the past month. The commission emphasized the importance of public safety, especially with Memorial Day weekend approaching.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the commission's commitment to addressing environmental challenges and enhancing the safety and quality of Mississippi's marine resources. The next steps will involve further discussions on the sewage mitigation plan and continued monitoring of derelict vessels, ensuring that the community's waterways remain safe and clean for all.