March 3, 2025

How mariners can help slow the spread of coral disease

In Florida and the Caribbean, corals are under attack by a devastating disease known as stony coral tissue loss disease, or SCTLD. This disease is highly destructive and can wipe out entire colonies of corals in a matter of weeks from the first appearance of disease signs. Many different coral species are susceptible to SCTLD, including important reef-building species and some that are federally listed as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act.

Feb. 20, 2025

Use of Unauthorized Chemicals for Ballast Water Management Systems

The Coast Guard has been made aware of instances of the use of unauthorized chemical products in Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS).

Jan. 23, 2025

National Boating Safety Advisory Committee; January 2025 Virtual Meeting; Notice of Cancellation

The virtual meeting of the National Boating Safety Advisory Committee scheduled for January 29, 2025, is cancelled.

Jan. 22, 2025

MEETING CANCELED: National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee - Operator of Remote-Controlled Survey Vessels of 65’ or less

The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing has canceled the meeting of the National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee Subcommittee on Task Statement 24-3: Operator of Remote-Controlled Survey Vessels of 65’ or less that was scheduled for January 27, 2025. The meeting is canceled until further notice.

Jan. 17, 2025

Final Rule: Cybersecurity in the Marine Transportation System

The Coast Guard has published a final rule in the Federal Register to update cybersecurity requirements for U.S.-flagged vessels, Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) facilities, and facilities subject to Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA).