Habitat Special Reports

In-depth reports on specific topics or issues of particular importance to fisheries management and conservation.

  • Artificial reef programs have traditionally relied upon vessels as the primary source of material for artificial reef construction. Over the past several years, the increasing cost of preparing these vessels and the fluctuating availability of suitable craft have led several states to use other types of reef materials. In spite of these problems, vessels still play a major role in many state and local artificial reef programs. This survey was developed to assess the role of vessels as artificial reef materials in the Gulf and Atlantic States.

  • In 1987, the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission identified the need to develop a comprehensive coastwide planning guide to assist states in preparing and implementing state artificial reef programs. Lacking a comprehensive, coastwide guide from which to develop individual state plans, many states have borrowed from a few existing plans developed to meet state-specific needs. The following guide goes beyond the scope of most of these parochial plans and provides a broad overview of planning components, as well as specific recommendations to guide the development of a state artificial reef plan policy.