AUSTIN— Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D., announced the results of the Chambers County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP). During the free three-day vessel turn-in event, May 14, 15, and 16, 2026, Chambers County residents relinquished four vessels totaling over 76 linear feet. Chambers County also reported that three batteries and two fire extinguishers were relinquished during the turn-in event.
“As a former Gulf Coast resident, the conservation of our beautiful Texas beaches continues to be a top priority of mine at the Texas General Land Office (GLO). Hosting these Vessel Turn-In Programs (VTIP), where boat owners can responsibly dispose of unwanted vessels, improves the cleanliness of the Texas coast,” said Commissioner Buckingham. “I thank the Chambers County residents who participated in this vessel turn-in program and their efforts to preserve the Texas coast for all communities that depend on the longevity of our coastal waters.”
A relinquished boat during the Chambers County Vessel Turn-In Program in May 2026
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) partnered with Chambers County and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to provide the residents of Chambers County 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.
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.
RELATED: Land Commissioner Buckingham Applauds the Success of the 2026 Texas Coastal Roundup in Galveston
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Dr. Dawn Buckingham made history in 2022, winning a statewide election to become Texas's 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.
