Queen Anne's County
Boat Shrinkwrap Recycling Program

QAC Shrink Wrap Recyling Program Overview
Purpose & Mission

Each year, as boating season kicks off in Queen Anne’s County, a significant environmental challenge emerges: disposing of the plastic shrinkwrap used to winterize boats. With an estimated 5,000 recreational boats in the county, many of which rely on this single-use material, the result is a substantial contribution to landfill waste. Recognizing this issue, Queen Anne’s County Government is continuing its proactive efforts to reduce the ecological footprint of boating by expanding its shrinkwrap recycling initiative.

Program Partnership

In response to this environmental concern, Queen Anne’s County Government has joined forces with Plastic Free QAC and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) to tackle the issue and minimize the ecological impact of single-use boat shrinkwrap. The first year we launched this initiative, we began by targeting local marinas and businesses, successfully recycling over 1.62 tons of plastic and diverting it from landfills. Our goal last year was to increase our efforts to 2 tons collected. We are excited that with your help we not only met our goal but far exceeded it by collecting 6 tons! This year, we need our boating community to help us continue the momentum.

County Support

County Commissioner Phil Dumenil stated, “Protecting our environment is an ongoing commitment, and this initiative reflects how we can work together as a community to make a difference. By providing free MTAM recycle bags, we’re encouraging everyone to play a part in reducing the environmental impact of recreational boating.”

Recycling Steps

To successfully recycle your boat shrinkwrap, remove and clean the shrinkwrap and place in an MTAM recycle bag. The MTAM recycle bags can be dropped off at the Gransonville Transfer station in the designated dumpster.

Recycle Bag Availability

The MTAM recycle bags for individuals and businesses will again be sponsored by the County Commissioners and available starting in mid-March. For individual owners, you can pick up your 2 FREE bags at West Marine in Chester, Rommel’s Ace Hardware in Stevensville, and Queen Anne’s County Library in Centreville and Stevensville. Businesses in Queen Anne’s County need to order bags from MTAM https://mtam.org/shrinkwrap-recycling-for-2025/ and you will be reimbursed for the cost of the bags.

Shrink Wrap Preparation for Recycling

The only shrinkwrap accepted for recycling must be cleaned of any zippers, windows, doors, or ties and packaged in the provided MTAM recycle bags. Residents can drop off their cleaned shrinkwrap at no cost.

Shrink Wrap Drop-Off

Starting the first week of April, a dedicated dumpster for MTAM-bagged shrinkwrap will be available at the Grasonville Transfer Station, located at 401 Gravel Run Road. The MTAM dumpster will be accessible until late May, providing a convenient and eco-friendly disposal option for boat owners.

Shrinkwrap Recycling Process
Acquire Bag(s)
Clean & Bag
Dispose
PFQAC Boat Shrink-Wrap Recycling Status - 2025

Bags for #QueenAnnesCounty residents are available beginning TODAY (February 28) at West Marine in Chester and Ace Hardware in Stevensville. Thanks to Queen Anne's County Government commissioners for once again making them available free of charge. We're leading the way in boat shrink wrap recycling for #Maryland, with 6 tons saved from landfill last year. TAKE ACTION this year. It's easier than you think!

Shrink Wrap Recycling Guidelines
Boat Shrinkwrap Recycling FAQs
Boat Shrinkwwrap Recycling's Role in Advancing Environmental Sustainability
In Queen Anne’s County, with over 5,000 registered recreational boats, approximately half utilize shrinkwrap for winterizing, which adds 30 tons of waste in landfills annually. The Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM) has been combating this issue with a statewide boat shrinkwrap recycling program since 2019.
Joining Forces for Change
Queen Anne’s County Government, Plastic Free QAC, and MTAM are teaming up to minimize the ecological impact of single-use shrinkwrap. We are the only county in Maryland that has this unique collaboration to reduce the amount of single use plastic in our landfill and provides the recycle bags free of charge.
Success from Previous Years
2023: 1.6 tons collected
2024: 6 tons collected
Why Recycle Boat Shrinkwrap in QAC?
Boat film doesn't decompose, leading to toxic fumes from landfills. Recycling reduces environmental impact, promotes sustainability, and conserves resources.
What Can be Recycled?
All cleaned and bagged shrinkwrap is recyclable. Remove straps, zippers, doors, and vents before placing it in the MTAM bag. https://youtu.be/920dFq3LNm4
What Happens to Bagged Wrap?
MTAM picks up bagged shrinkwrap, transporting it to a baling company. It's turned into "nurdles" or composite materials, used in various products like decking, lumber, and clothing. We have a guarantee from our recycling contractor that the shrinkwrap is indeed recycled.
Time Commitment for Recycling?
Bagging shrinkwrap efficiently takes only 10-15 minutes. MTAM's conveniently located dumpster in Grasonville saves time and travel costs.
Financial Benefits for Marinas?
Participating marinas save on storage, transportation, and disposal fees. Drop off MTAM bags filled with clean shrinkwrap at the Grasonville Transfer Station, eliminating landfill trips and reducing fuel costs.
How to Participate in the Shrinkwrap Recycling Program?
In 2025, MTAM recycling bags will be free again for QAC residents. Starting in early March, recycling bags can be picked up at West Marine in Chester and Rommel’s Ace Hardware. They may also can be picked up at the QAC Libraries in Centreville and Stevensville from March 15 to June 1. Once the season opens, pick up your FREE bags while supplies last. This is thanks to a generous donation from the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners. Participating marinas and boat service companies will be listed soon.
Why is There Usually a Fee for Recycling Bags?
The $15/bag fee covers pickup, transportation, and recycling costs. There is no charge for QAC residents, sponsored by the County Commissioners Pick up your FREE bag.
Reducing Waste on Your Boat?
Minimize shrinkwrap use by properly storing and maintaining boat covers. Use reusable covers when possible. https://mtam.org/think-before-you-shrink/ Let's make a difference! #ShrinkwrapRecycling #SustainableBoating #QACEnvironment
MTAM Recycle Bags Sponsored by County Commissioners
Available at West Marine in Chester, MD, Rommel’s Ace Hardware, and QAC Libraries in Centreville and Stevensville. Stay tuned for more details.
How to Recycle Shrinkwrap?
Only clean shrinkwrap without zippers, windows, or ties can be recycled in provided MTAM bags. See the diagram below for details. Drop off your cleaned shrinkwrap at no cost. There are two designated dumpsters at Grasonville Transfer Station.
Dumpster Availability
From the first week of April to end of May, a dedicated dumpster for MTAM bagged shrinkwrap will be at the Grasonville Transfer Station. #PlasticFreeQAC #SustainableBoating #QueenAnnesCountyEnvironment
Let's Lead by Example
Together, we can make a lasting impact on our environment. Join us in setting a precedent for communities across Maryland. #PlasticFreeQAC #SustainableBoating #QueenAnnesCountyEnvironment
Shrink Wrap Recycling Video