The number of species of fish and crustacea habitats in waters has been declining over the years resulting in severe impacts to the fishing industry, tourism and local economies. In an effort to revive marine life populations, Governor Cuomo has launched the largest artificial reef expansion in New York’s history.
This commitment will enhance 12 artificial reef sites beginning with 6 this year at Fire Island, Hempstead, Moriches, Rockaway, Shinnecock and Smithtown with many more planned in the future.
The reef program will include an effort to use retired steel vessels from the Erie Canal, and demolition materials from transportation and infrastructure projects.
Material and vessels have been cleaned of all contaminants and repurposed. Once the materials settle on the sea floor, the reef structure will begin to fill with various species of marine life and over time the structure will create a habitat very similar to a natural reef. Fish like blackfish, black sea bass, scup, fluke, hake and cod will move into the new structure.
Published in the August 2018 Edition