New York City has secured funding for a major cleanup initiative aimed at removing approximately one million pounds of derelict boats and other debris from waterways across the five boroughs.

The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation announced the funding, describing the effort as a step toward creating a healthier marine environment and cleaner city waterways.

The initiative will target abandoned and deteriorating vessels along with other accumulated debris that can pose environmental concerns, interfere with waterways and detract from the city’s shoreline.

Removing derelict boats can be a particularly challenging undertaking because vessels may need to be recovered, transported and properly dismantled or disposed of while minimizing impacts on the surrounding environment.

NYC Parks did not specify in its announcement which waterways will be prioritized or provide a timeline for when the removal work will begin.