AUSTIN, Texas— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced the results of the Galveston County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP). During the free three-day derelict vessel turn-in event on January 18, 20 and 21, 2026, Galveston County residents relinquished 28 boats totaling over 470 linear feet and 250 gallons of oil and fuel that was safely removed and disposed of. In addition, three batteries and two fire extinguishers were also safely removed.
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) partnered with Galveston County, the Galveston County Sheriff's Office, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to provide the residents of Galveston County with this free event to dispose of inoperable vessels.
Galveston County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) held in January 2026
VTIP provides owners with a free and voluntary method to dispose of their vessels and boats. The GLO sponsors the removal of all fuel, oil, and batteries and TPWD verifies ownership and clears the vessels for disposal.
Removing abandoned vessels from coastal waters comes at a considerable expense— around $1,000 per linear foot. The GLO and its partners encourage communities to participate in VTIPs to avoid these steep costs and to keep their boats from becoming environmental or safety hazards.
Galveston County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) held in January 2026
Since it began in 2015, VTIP has hosted 48 events in various coastal communities— in total, 1,854 derelict and inoperable boats measuring 30,125 linear feet have been removed from coastal areas. The GLO has also recovered 3,939 gallons of fuel/oil through these essential programs.
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas' first female Land Commissioner. As Land Commissioner, Dr. Dawn Buckingham is committed to helping Texans after a disaster, supporting Texas energy, ensuring that every child in Texas receives a high-quality public education, serving Texas Veterans, and securing the border to keep our communities safe.