Monroe County Deploys 156 Concrete Reef Modules This Summer

Monroe County will deploy 156 concrete modules across three Gulf of Mexico sites this summer, expanding an artificial reef program that has attracted more than 90 marine species to its first completed location.

The deployments will create 12 patch reefs at Gulfside 5 Mile, Gulfside 8 Mile, and Gulfside 9 Mile. The structures feature embedded limestone and varied shapes designed to promote marine life settlement. The program aims to provide fishing and diving opportunities while reducing pressure on natural coral reefs.

The Gulfside 10 Mile Artificial Reef, located approximately 16 nautical miles northeast of Key West, demonstrates the program's success. The site transformed from flat, sandy bottom into habitat supporting cobia, permit, grouper, snapper, sharks, sea turtles, corals, and sponges. The reef uses stacked concrete power poles to create diverse habitat spaces.

Monroe County also received Florida Department of Environmental Protection approval for a pilot project testing low-relief structures in shallow nearshore habitats within Florida Bay. Fish populations in those areas are estimated at 30 to 40 percent of 1990s levels.

"Nearshore hardbottom communities deserve equal concern as coral reefs," said Artificial Reefs Director Dr. Hanna Koch. "Many species depend on these habitats early in life before moving to reefs or other ecosystems."

Monroe County holds 21 permit applications covering 15 sites on both Gulf and Atlantic sides. Processing timelines range from 12 to 18 months depending on location and complexity. The program receives grant funding through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission.

The county will announce deployment dates and opportunities for public observation once permits are finalized.