03/26/2026
Recycle your shrinkwrap!
Each year, as boating season begins 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 relying 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 boat shrinkwrap recycling initiative.
In partnership with Plastic Free QAC and the Marine Trades Association of Maryland (MTAM), the County is working to reduce the environmental impact of single-use boat shrinkwrap through a public-private collaboration that makes recycling accessible and convenient for both residents and businesses.
The initiative launched in 2023 with a focus on local marinas and marine-related businesses, successfully recycled 1.62 tons of plastic that year alone. Since the program began, more than 12 tons of shrinkwrap have been diverted from landfills. As the program enters another season, the County is encouraging the boating community to help keep that momentum going.
To recycle boat shrinkwrap, owners should remove and "clean" the material—meaning they ensure it is free of zippers, windows, doors, ties, or any contaminants. Clean shrinkwrap must be placed in an official MTAM recycle bag and dropped off in the designated MTAM dumpster at the Grasonville Transfer Station.
Once again, MTAM recycle bags for both individuals and businesses are being sponsored by the Queen Anne’s County Commissioners, making participation free for residents.
Individual boat owners may pick up two free MTAM recycle bags at the following locations:
• West Marine – Chester
• Rommel's ACE – Stevensville
• Queen Anne's County Library – Stevensville (Available April 1)
• Queen Anne’s County Library – Centreville (Available April 1)
• Centreville Town Hall - Town of Centreville MD
Businesses interested in participating should order bags directly from MTAM at
https://mtam.org/shrinkwrap-recycling-for-2025/.
“This initiative shows what’s possible when local government, nonprofits, businesses, and residents work together. Every bag of shrinkwrap recycled keeps plastic out of our landfills and waterways, and we’re excited to see this program continue to grow,” said County Commissioner Phil Dumenil
Beginning March 25, a dedicated MTAM shrinkwrap recycling dumpster will be available at the Grasonville Transfer Station, located at 401 Gravel Run Road, and will remain on site through early June, providing a convenient and environmentally responsible disposal option.
For more information—including bag pickup locations, drop-off instructions, and partner organizations—visit:
https://lnk.bio/RecycleBoatShrinkwrap
