DECEMBER 2017 • FOGHORN 29 LEGISLATIVEREPORT only 163 of the 220 eligible ferry operators responded to it. Unlike in previous years, the analysis provided in the 2016 Highlights includes only reported numbers; missing information or responses designated as business- sensitive were not imputed or used in estimating totals. Private ferry operators outnumber public operators by a considerable number. The 2016 National Census received responses from 75 public operators (only three such operators failed to participate). There were 88 private operators that participated, but 54 others chose not to do so. Since private operators are generally not able to access federal ferry grant programs, perhaps they have less incentive to respond. Despite this, it is important all operators to participate to get the most accurate “snapshot” of the ferry industry, as this helps PVA and policy- makers justify governmental initiatives to promote ferries as part of the overall national transportation network. Comprehensive results and visuals from the 2016 census, as well as data from previous censuses, can be found by entering “National Census of Ferry Operators” into your internet search engine. Many ferry operators, especially those owned or operated by public entities, receive awards under the Ferry Boat Grant Program of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA); these funds are used for the construction of ferry vessels and ferry terminal facilities. Grants are allocated pursuant to a statutory formula that takes into consideration passengers carried, vehicles carried, and route miles. The funding formula is estab- lished in section 147(d) of title 23 United States Code. The data compiled in the most recent National Census of Ferry Operators is used to determine the al- locations, and an eligible operator can receive a grant only if it has responded to the National Census. That is why it is important for an operator to par- ticipate in the National Census and to provide accurate numbers in the op- erator’s submission. PVA encourages all ferry operators to participate in the upcoming 2018 Census, which is slated to get underway this coming spring. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics will make a presentation about the National Census of Ferry Operators at the PVA Annual Convention at MariTrends 2018 in Savannah, GA, this coming January 28-31, 2018. n Ad 1 | 1/4p | 3.375” x 4.875” www.propspeed.com PROPSPEED® is effective on: Propellers | Rudders | Shafts | Struts | Trim tabs | IPS drives | Thrusters Keel coolers | Underwater lights (clear coat) | Any underwater metal surface PROPSPEED® can be used on boats of all types & sizes Both recreational and commercial, from sport-fishers, cruisers, sailboats and superyachts to work boats like ferries, trawlers, tugboats, research ships and patrol boats. Save on your boat’s running costs Having clean props and running gear lowers maintenance costs, reduces corrosion and decreases fuel burn. gplink_quarter.indd 1 1/6/2017 10:25:38 AM