The Coastal Resources Division (CRD) of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources recently deployed concrete rubble and culvert, donated by the City of Brunswick, as an enhancement to Artificial Reef SFC – located 18 nautical miles east of Little Cumberland Island.

Artificial Reef SFC is one of 31 offshore manmade fish habitats along the Georgia coast. The concrete rubble was deployed by Barnett Southern Marine Corporation at 30°59.793’W / 81°02.783’W in approximately 60 feet of water. This is the first deployment completed at SFC Reef since January 2004.

“Our offshore artificial reef surveys have shown that concrete is very productive when placed on the seafloor attracting a variety of encrusting organisms and several species of fish targeted by anglers. Within the next year, we expect this addition to SFC Reef to be producing catches of black sea bass, sheepshead, and flounder, as well as holding baitfish that, in turn, will attract king and Spanish mackerel,” commented Doug Haymans, Director of CRD.

Using side scan sonar and diver surveys, CRD staff will monitor the site to document the structural integrity of the materials, as well as the fish and invertebrate abundance and diversity.

Enhancement to SFC Artificial Reef is made possible by Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration, fishing license funds, private donations, and partnerships with local organizations that are interested in enhancing offshore fishing and diving opportunities.