What should vessel operators do to comply with garbage disposal regulations for vessels 26 feet or longer?

Vessel operators of boats that are 26 feet or longer are required to display a Garbage Disposal Placard. This placard serves multiple purposes: it notifies the crew and passengers about the regulations regarding waste disposal and provides guidance on how to handle waste properly while on board.

Displaying this placard is essential for compliance with the federal and state regulations that aim to protect the marine environment from pollution. The placard typically outlines the types of waste that can and cannot be disposed of in the water, highlighting that certain materials must be disposed of on land in designated facilities.

The other options do not align with the regulations governing waste disposal on vessels. For example, relying solely on public bins does not ensure that waste is properly managed. Using only plastic containers is not a comprehensive solution and might not adhere to specific disposal guidelines. Additionally, changing routes to avoid waste management does not address the underlying issue of responsible waste disposal practices required on the vessel. Thus, displaying the Garbage Disposal Placard is the correct action to take to stay compliant with regulations.