Home›Permiting Laws›MPRSA

Marine Protection, Research and

Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA)

MPRSA Overview

On this page

Background

Implementing Agency

Regulatory Application

Permit(s) applicable to algaecide use

Contacts

Background

The Marine Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) was enacted by the U.S Congress in 1972. MPRSA regulates the transportation and disposition of materials in the ocean that would adversely affect human health, welfare, or amenities, or the marine environment, ecological systems, or economic potentialities.

Implementing Agency(s)

EPA, US Army Corps of Engineers (authorization of dredge disposition), US Coast Guard (surveillance)

Regulatory Application

MPRSA regulates the “dumping” of any material in the ocean seaward of the baseline. The baseline is defined as the mean lower low water line, or ordinary low water mark, along the coast and the "closing lines" across river mouths and openings of bays that are depicted on official United States Nautical Charts (see a map defining the baseline). The use of any algaecide product that will not be physically recovered from waters seaward of the baseline requires a permit under MPRSA.

Environment: Saltwater
Waterbody: Territorial seas (coastline out to 3 nm), Contiguous zone (3 - 9 nm off coastline), Economic exclusive zone (200 nm), High seas (greater than 200 nm)
Algaecide classification: Conventional pesticide, Biochemical pesticide, Antimicrobial pesticide, Minimum risk
Related regulatory acts and permits: ESA, RHA, CWA, MMPA
Description: Algaecide use in coastal systems requires compliance with the EPA’s Endangered Species Act and may require permitting through the US Army Corps of Engineers’ Rivers and Harbors Act. The release of non-recoverable algaecides into the waters of the US (WOTUS) requires an NPDES permit.
Additional considerations: MPRSA permit applications require a map of the area where the product will be released. Be mindful of dispersion outside the planned deployment area due to currents, wind, and tides. Experimental use requires federal and state Experimental Use Permits.