26 JULY 2017 • FOGHORN HOW PVA BENEFITS YOU By Jen Wilk, Director, Public Affairs and Development PVA Working For You PVA Provides Membersʼ Assistance on Environmental Protection Programs 1.800.777.0714 toll free www.merequipment.com 8-500kW Marine Generators // Pull harder in the harshest marine environments // More copper & premium corrosion resistance // Superior motor starting & low operating temps // Better fuel economy & longer engine life // Easy to service & worldwide dealer support // Proudly made in America Let MCM manage your insurance so you can focus on your voyage MCM is a leading independent insurance brokerage based in the Pacific Northwest. Our marine practice group has more than 100 years of combined experience placing insurance and managing the marine industry’s unique risks. Whether we’re working with vessel operators, builders, repair facilities or suppliers, we create specialized solutions that meet each client’s needs. EMpLoyEE BEnEfits | ExECutivE BEnEfits | REtiREMEnt pLans insuRanCE advisoRy | pRopERty & CasuaLty Contact Damon L. Nasman at (206) 262-6375 or email damon.nasman@mcmnw.com www.mcmnw.com P VA understands that promoting the health of our nation’s waterways is critical. Member companies recognize the fundamen- tal responsibility to operate in a safe, secure, and environmentally respon- sible manner. This is part of PVA’s mission and commitment to serving members. PVA knows that your operation not only seeks to continually incorporate best management practices that enhance environmental steward- ship but also needs to stay up-to-date on environmental regulation and com- pliance. Vessel General Permit PVA updates members on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Vessel General Permit (VGP) for discharges incidental to the normal operation of a vessel. The VGP is a set of requirements that apply to 27 types of vessel discharges. EPA has issued this permit under authority of the federal Clean Water Act. The VGP applies to commercial vessels, which operate in waters of the U.S., and that are greater than 79 feet in length (as documented by their Coast Guard issued Certificate of Documentation). Commercial vessels with ballast water discharges, regardless of length, are also subject to the VGP. The VGP also contains additional conditions applied by certain states.