Home > News
Supervisor Bosworth Warns About Dangers of Formaldehyde to Treat Boat Sewage Tanks


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 29, 2016
MEDIA CONTACTS: Carole Trottere, Rebecca Cheng, Sam Marksheid, and Vicki DiStefano | (516) 869-7794

Supervisor Bosworth Warns About Dangers of Formaldehyde to Treat Boat Sewage Tanks

North Hempstead, NY – Supervisor Judi Bosworth and the Town Board would like to bring awareness to the negative impact the use of products containing formaldehyde can have on the environment when used for treating the holding tank aboard a boat.

Formaldehyde is often used as a deodorizer to treat sewage tanks on boats. The EPA recognizes formaldehyde as a probable carcinogen.

“I am urging our Town of North Hempstead boaters not to use any products containing formaldehyde when treating their holding tanks,” said Supervisor Judi Bosworth. “The chemicals and byproducts associated with formaldehyde can pass through wastewater treatment systems and flow into soil, ground water and even nearby surface water. There are other, safer alternatives on the market and I think that once people become educated about the pitfalls of using formaldehyde, they will choose wisely and protect our water and environment.”

Chief Bay Constable Mal Nathan stated, “Maintaining your boat’s waste system is important; it keeps it operating correctly and odor free. But please do it in an environmentally friendly way by using products that do not contain formaldehyde. It is better for you, your boat and the waterways.”

In addition, the Town would like to remind boaters to always discharge at a pump out station. North Hempstead maintains two pump out boats and has a stationary system at the Town Dock in Port Washington. The services of the pump out boats are offered at no charge for all pleasure boats in Manhasset Bay and the North Hempstead territorial waters of Little Neck Bay and Hempstead Harbor.

For more information, please call 311 or (516) 869-6311.



  

View Archives