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On Wed, Dec 24, this derelict vessel posed a threat to public safety when it was discovered drifting a mile or so downriver from the FM 521 boat ramp on the San Bernard. River resident, Mike Goodson, saw it floating hull side up and thought it was some sort of large tank barely seen above the water's surface. The vessel was towed to a nearby river bank by resident Mariellen Wenzel and her grandson and a wrecker service was called. The water-logged vessel proved too heavy to be hauled out by a normal size wrecker and a larger one was needed. 

There’s speculation that this derelict was purposely abandoned and disposed in the river because the Texas mandatory boat registration numbers are missing along with the boat’s engine. Also missing was the Hull Identification Number (HIN) that the boat manufacturer places on the vessel. 

 

Worn-out boats need to be removed properly by hauling to the “Vessel Turn-in Program” held by TGLO, TPWL and Brazoria County at no cost to the owner. Dumping a boat or anything into a Texas river is serious illegal dumping, carrying fines from hundreds to $100,000 and jail time, depending on volume and intent, under the Texas Water Code and Litter Abatement Act.