By Dawn De Busk

Staff Writer

NAPLES — A group of private citizens and local businesses in Naples have pledged a $1,000 reward for any information about a boat owner who dumped their septic holding tank in Brandy Pond on July 4.

The monetary reward would be given to anyone who could provide specific details about the owner(s) of the boat if that information leads to a conviction and payment of fines.

The conversation took place during — and after — a Naples Board of Selectmen meeting.

On Monday night, some board members were shocked to hear reports of a boat’s holding tank being dumped in Brandy Pond on the evening of Independence Day.

One person commented it was likely the boat had not left the area, and was still being moored on a neighboring lake.

Selectman Rich Cebra suggested that the town seek the help of the Warden’s Service, which has assisted in the past, by “blanketing the area for a period of two weeks.”

“It’s time we do that again,” he said.

Cebra, who owns property on Brandy Pond, said he no longer swims in the water of his beachfront parcel.

Also, the amount of litter floating in the pond has increased tenfold this summer, he said.

His next-door neighbor has commented on boaters parked in front of his private dock.

Cebra asked residents to write letters or e-mails to the board of selectmen, requesting the aid of the Warden’s Service on this matter.

It is unlawful to dump a boat’s holding tank into the water.

Additionally, most local marinas on Brandy Pond, Long Lake, and Big Sebago Lake offer pumping services for a fee.

To report any dumping of boat holding tanks in the lake, call the Naples Town Office, 693-6364, or the Harbormaster’s cell phone, 339-234-2339.

The $1,000 reward is being raised by local residents and business owners, and not by the Town of Naples.