AUSTIN— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced the results of the San Patricio County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP). During the free three-day vessel turn-in event, May 14, 15 and 16, 2026. San Patricio County residents relinquished 40 vessels totaling over 721 linear feet. San Patricio County also reported that 210 gallons of pollution, along with five batteries and one fire extinguisher, were relinquished during the turn-in event.
“The safe removal of abandoned boats is a key piece of the GLO’s efforts to protect marine life and coastal communities," said Commissioner Buckingham. “I want to thank San Patricio’s local government for their work to bring this program to their residents and to all who participated in the first-ever Vessel Turn-In Program in San Patricio County. Your dedication to protecting and preserving our coastal waters is truly admirable and deeply appreciated.”
GLO crews inspect boats turned in during the San Patricio County Vessel Turn-In Program in May 2026
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) partnered with San Patricio County and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to provide San Patricio County residents with this free event to dispose of inoperable vessels.
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.
GLO crews inspect boats turned in during the San Patricio County Vessel Turn-In Program in May 2026
Removing abandoned vessels from coastal waters comes at a considerable expense— around $1,000 per 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.
Since its beginning in 2015, VTIP has hosted 52 events in various coastal communities. This essential program has removed 1,996 inoperable boats measuring 32,634 linear feet from coastal areas and recovered 4,300 gallons of pollution.
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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.