The Okaloosa Coastal Resource Team successfully deployed 46 prefabricated artificial reef modules on Monday, May 29, 2023. Situated 15-18 nautical miles southeast of Destin’s East Pass, the 4 patch reef sites are the newest addition to the growing artificial reef program in Okaloosa County.

• “The project is not only about diversification of marine habitats but is also a step towards providing an array of opportunities for the locals and tourists alike,” said Alex Fogg, Coastal Resource Manager for Okaloosa County.

Consisting of one 15ft tall and 45 eight feet tall modules, the patch reefs have been strategically placed within the Large Area Artificial Reef Site A (LAARS A) permitted area off the coast of Destin-Fort Walton Beach. These modules, manufactured from clean, durable concrete and limestone, have been placed at depths ranging from 110 to 141 feet, according to Fogg.

Fogg reiterated the significance of this initiative, stating, “Not only are we fostering new habitats for marine life, but we’re also providing a means for people to experience these resources in a responsible and sustainable manner by spreading out fishing effort while also reducing potential conflicts between users.” 

The project, funded jointly by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and Okaloosa County, amounted to a total of $120,000. The FWC provided a $60,000 grant through its Artificial Reef Construction & Monitoring program, which was matched by the county using tourism tax dollars.

• “These reefs have a positive economic effect on the region by drawing in anglers and divers of all ages and skill levels from around the globe, bolstering local businesses like dive shops and charter boats,” continued Fogg.

Walter Marine/Reefmaker was selected for the construction and deployment of the reef modules. The vessel MARANATHA II  conducted the deployment in a single day, creating a bustling underwater environment for marine species and a unique playground for SCUBA enthusiasts.

This deployment comes on the heels of the Coastal Resource Team deploying 38 prefabricated artificial reef modules earlier this month, enriching the already diverse marine habitats and promoting sustainable tourism. 

With another successful deployment under their belt, Fogg continues to dive into his 5-year artificial reef plan: “We are committed to expanding this program, transforming the local marine landscape, and benefiting our community both economically and ecologically.”

The coordinates for all of these artificial reefs are posted on Visit Destin-Fort Walton Beach’s website.