The state of Louisiana is set to expand an artificial reef created in 2022 with the help of marine resources conservation group CCA Louisiana.
“Adding on to an already existing reef is an exciting opportunity for the department as this can promote enhanced fish habitat and lead to greater fishing opportunity for anglers,” Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Assistant Secretary of Fisheries Ryan Montegut said in a release. “We are thankful for our partners CCA, Natrx, and Danos, and their investment in the future of Louisiana’s fisheries.”
The Eugene Island 51 Nearshore artificial reef was constructed out of roughly 120 recycled concrete structures and is located 37 nautical miles offshore. The expansion of the reef is set to take place in early November, with the state and CCA Louisiana adding 465 Cajun Coral reef modules to the existing structure. LDFW said the 3D-printed modules – designed by technology company Natrx and installed by Danos – are highly flexible and promote “habitat growth and ecological benefits that strengthen over time.”
The state established the Louisiana Artificial Reef Program in 1986 to transform decommissioned oil and gas platforms into artificial reefs that can continue to serve as valuable habitat for coastal fish species. For nearshore reefs, materials are often added to improve the stability of the artificial structures.
“Building artificial reefs in shallower waters requires special considerations to limit navigational hazards,” LDFW explained in its program website. “The program seeks to keep the base of the oil and gas platform as well as rock piles and other unique profile features when possible to preserve as much habitat as practicable. Other materials including limestone and recycled concrete are then added to enhance the artificial reef structure.”
According to CCA Louisiana, there are 52 artificial reef instillations off the state’s coast.
