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Environmental Stewardship

Environmental Stewardship Fast Facts

Environmental Investments

The Canaveral Port Authority has long been a responsible community partner for healthy waterways. As Port guardians, one of our most important tasks is to protect this environment. Our land and waters must support the well-being and interests of our cruise and cargo partners, the coastal residential community, and Florida’s special animal and plant populations, many of which are unique to the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) environment. We are a workplace, a home, and a key component in ensuring the viability of our region’s ecosystem. That’s why we have been and continue to be fully engaged in sustaining healthy waterways for our region, particularly the IRL.

The Port has invested millions of dollars in stormwater improvements and environmental initiatives to ensure water quality and habitat protection. As stewards of Port Canaveral, the maritime asset entrusted to the Port Commissioners by the Florida Legislature and the people of the Port District, the Port has for decades proactively dedicated resources and invested in preventive measures and infrastructure to protect and improve the condition of the environment in and around the Port.

Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasures (SPCC)

Our hazardous materials and spill prevention plan exceeds federal, state, and local requirements, featuring rigorous preventive measures, regular staff training, and mandatory regulatory coordination.

Stormwater Management and Treatment

We have proactively invested millions of dollars in building and maintaining our infrastructure to ensure every drop of rainwater that falls on the Port goes through Port-owned and maintained stormwater treatment and retention systems with only clean water discharged in the Canaveral Harbor, not the Banana River.

Wastewater Treatment

Port Canaveral does not use septic systems. Port wastewater flows through a Port-owned and maintained sewer system to the City of Cocoa Beach advanced wastewater treatment plant.

Multi-Level Participation

Active membership in the Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association underscores our commitment to coastal preservation. Additionally, Port representatives regularly engage with organizations such as the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program.

Port Canaveral Environmental FAQs

Below are some of the most frequently asked environmental-related questions our staff receives from the community.
Does the Port have an Environmental staff?
Yes – the Canaveral Port Authority employees a dedicated team of environmental professionals to support the Port’s Environmental Stewardship initiatives.
Who should I contact if I notice a spill or discharge incident in Port waters?
Please contact the Port Operations Center at (321) 394-3281 to report incident details.
How frequently does the Port Authority have to perform dredging?
The Canaveral Port Authority is responsible for maintenance dredging near terminals/berths and other areas of the Port.  Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has responsibility for most of the turning basin areas of the Port, and the Federal channel.  Frequency can vary from year to year, but the community can expect to see some portion of dredging occurring on a yearly basis.
Does the Port use Reclaimed Water?
The Port utilizes Reclaimed Water for most of its irrigation needs. The City of Cape Canaveral provides this utility service to the Port. 
How does Port Canaveral handle environmental emergencies?
The Public Safety and Security Department works closely with the Port Canaveral environmental department to manage and mitigate environmental hazards, ensuring minimal impact on the port and surrounding areas.

Port Tenant Help Page

Stormwater Information/Materials
This page provides Port tenants with informational assistance for their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) responsibilities.