What does alternative antifouling mean? The hull coating industry is developing new products as alternatives to copper antifouling paints. The main types currently on the market are nontoxic (biocide-free) coatings, coatings that incorporate zinc, and coatings with a biodegradable toxicant. Coatings with "nano-engineered" surfaces are expected to be the next generation.

Why is the hull coating industry creating new products, when copper antifouling paints are so widely used? In San Diego Bay and other crowded, California boat harbors, copper has built up in the water to levels that harm marine life. The effects are mostly on development of young stages, such as larvae. Agencies such as the Regional and State Water Boards and the Department of Pesticide Regulation are taking another look at how boaters control fouling growth.

New, alternative hull coatings come onto the market each year; some survive and some disappear. It's important to talk with local boat repair and hull cleaning services to find out what's available, what has performed well where you keep your boat, and pros/cons of each type.

Types of nontoxic (biocide-free) hull coatings include epoxy, ceramic-epoxy, silicone, siliconized epoxy, polymer and bottom wax.

The nontoxic coatings generally need a "companion" strategy, such as in-water hull cleaning, storing the boat on a lift or in a slip liner, or storing it on land.

A nontoxic (biocide-free) antifouling strategy combines a nontoxic hull coating with an effective companion strategy. Ask your marina, harbor or yacht club manager which, if any, companion strategies are permitted.

For more information on nontoxic coatings and companion strategies, you can download our publication, Alternative Antifouling Strategies Sampler. It's available on the Nontoxic Antifouling Strategies page of our website.

What do you think about using a nontoxic antifouling strategy?