The Coastal Resources Division (CRD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GADNR) recently deployed 22 concrete culverts at the High Point Inshore Artificial Reef site in McIntosh County as a joint venture with the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) - Georgia and the Building Conservation Trust (BCT), CCA’s National Habitat Program.

In 1999, a 19-acre area along the northwest shoreline of Sapelo Island was designated as the High Point Inshore Artificial Reef. In the past, concrete culverts and pilings have been deployed at the site, a portion of which is submerged at low tide and a portion of which is exposed at low tide. The site is marked with four wooden pilings and signage to alert anglers to its location and to warn mariners of the danger of submerged materials. This new addition of concrete culvert, donated by the City of Brunswick, will enhance the attractiveness of the site to spotted seatrout, red drum, and sheepshead.

“We are very excited to join forces with BCT to support this important project in our great state,” said Tom Rood, chairman of CCA - Georgia. “Not only will it enhance recreational fishing opportunities for Georgia anglers it will also pave the way for more opportunities to do great habitat work through the CCA - Georgia/BCT partnership.”

The High Point Inshore Artificial Reef is one of a series of 15 inshore manmade fish habitats along the Georgia coast. Materials deployed at these sites become encrusted with oysters, barnacles, and other marine life creating shelter and feeding opportunities for a variety of fish species popular with recreational anglers. In addition to donations from groups like CCA, and BCT, state fishing license revenues and Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration are used for these projects.

“Partnering with the CCA states is a vital part of making our habitat enhancement and restoration work come to life,” said Sean Stone, executive director of Building Conservation Trust. “Our partnership with CCA Georgia is growing rapidly, and the High Point Inshore Artificial Reef enhancement carries out several of our shared core values.”