Well, I just gotta jump in here now, since this won't die on it's own. It's such a complex topic, and of course we're all "for" keeping the environment clean. The problem is that most government actions/regulations don't look at the entire system, and just address a specific concern, usually political rather than environmental. For instance, what's better for the environment overall: Using TBT bottom paints that last 5 years because they're more toxic, or using copper based compounds that must be redone every year or two, with all the attendant wastes, solvents, sanding, stuff getting into the environment, etc.? I don't know, but I'd bet that nobody has ever looked at the whole picture. I can tell you that the paint manufacturers make out better with the current scenario. Wonder what they lobbied for? Same with marine sanitation and no discharge zones. While the intent is noble, the reality is that those laws probably cause more pollution than they reduce, especially when there are type I devices like the LectraSan that will treat human waste to much higher standards than the municipal plants you're forced to pump out to. There are lots of examples of these types of things, and the folks who said boaters need to be proactive to not get blind-sided are right. Overall, I think Boat/U.S.' government affairs department is one of our most proactive and effective lobbies. I've seen them get legislation introduced within a few months of several of us bringing things to their attention, and following up as best they can. Check out their site at: http://www.boatus.com/gov/. -- __________________ Keith Perfect boat dogs?: Dockshund, Springline Spaniel, Dinghygo, Pointer (always helpful to sailors,) Ancur. Definitely NOT an Afghan... - Zeke Anderson