Santa Rosa & Escambia Recycle Signposts into Underwater Reefs

Santa Rosa and Escambia Counties are transforming discarded metal signposts into underwater habitats for marine life through a joint “reef-cycling” project. The initiative integrates repurposed metal structures into concrete artificial reef modules.

The partnership, funded by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) through a Natural Resources Damage Assessment (NRDA) Artificial Reef project, aims to create lasting benefits for marine ecosystems. Students from George Stone Technical College’s welding program are gaining hands-on experience by preparing the scrap metal for the reefs.

A total of 124 concrete reef modules have already been deployed in the Escambia County near-shore east site, with the added metal components designed to provide shelter for small fish and invertebrates.

“Working with Escambia County on this project has shown what we can accomplish when we look for creative solutions together,” said Chris Verlinde, Natural Resources Coordinator for Santa Rosa County. “This collaboration extends beyond jurisdictional boundaries to protect and enhance our shared natural resources.”

Robert Turpin, Escambia County Marine Resources Division Manager, added, “We're excited about this partnership between both counties and George Stone Technical College, which not only provides valuable experience for George Stone welding students but also benefits local divers, anglers, and marine life through this new underwater habitat.”