Alabama Gulf CoastExploring New Water since 1953

With over 60 years of experience in artificial reef development, Alabama is home to one of the earliest and most productive organized artificial reef networks in the nation. Our network of inshore, nearshore and offshore reefs have proven to be an important contributor to the ecological and economic health of the northern Gulf of Mexico by providing habitat for economically viable reef fish, and creating a marine environment in which it is possible for fish populations to flourish.

However, challenges exist. In the years following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon catastrophe, fishery experts and marine biologists have been concerned that the spill may have had a tremendously negative impact on early life-stage fish populations. Older reefs in our system also suffer from decay, corrosion and external obstructions. Alabama’s Artificial Reef Plan calls for enhancement of the reef system which will help provide beneficial habitat for reef fish populations, further contribute to the ecological well-being of the northern Gulf, and drive economic productivity for the state of Alabama.