2012 Ocean Ranger Guidebook Revision 3-7-12 - Alaska ...

2012 Ocean Ranger Guidebook 3-7-12
Wastewater Definitions and additional information
Definitions of permitted discharges
Within Alaska waters
Cruise ships need a notice of intent (signed version) and a General Permit issued by the State of
Alaska. They also need an authorization letter from the USCG (33CFR 159) see
http://www.dec.state.ak.us/water/cruise_ships/gp/Auth_08.html
In general, if vessels want to discharge In Alaska, they need to be capable of meeting the Alaska
discharge standards (Table 1 of the general permit)
Outside of 3 mile limit
This is outside the jurisdiction of the State of Alaska. Most vessels use the “4 mile” limit to make
sure that they are clear from state boundaries. (some VSSP plans and discharge plans make
reference to a 4 mile limit) IMO allows materials to be discharged that are comminuted and
disinfected waste at a speed of 4 knots
Outside 12 mile limit
International waters where discharges of gray and black water, biomass, etc are allowed to be
discharged at 4 knots speed or higher.
Donut Holes
In the past definitions of Alaska waters, there were several areas within the islands of Southeast
Alaska that were more than 3 miles from land. The cruise ships used these donut holes to
discharge their waste water and then proceeded on their way. The concept of donut holes has
been eliminated by the current definitions of Alaskan waters.
Restricted Zones
Glacier Bay - this is a no discharge area for the National Parks Service. Vessels navigating in
Glacier Bay need a “park authorization”.
Tracy Arm – voluntary no discharge zone. This is a wilderness area for the US Forest Service –
most vessels opt not to discharge while navigating in Tracy Arms area (including Endicott arms).
Skagway Harbor – The State of Alaska general permit lists Skagway harbor as a non-discharge
zone for large vessels.
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