When a well designed structure is intentionally deployed on the seafloor as an artificial reef, it creates habitat for a variety of marine life and so our reefs quickly become popular destinations for divers, snorkelers, and  recreational fishermen.

Heavy visitation, particularly by novice or uninformed divers and snorkelers, can take a toll on natural coral reefs. Also dredging and trawler fishing can impact shallow water habitat.  Research demonstrates that our purspose built reefs divert pressure away from natural reefs while still allowing visitors to enjoy diverse marine life. Because many of these divers, snorkelers, and anglers charter through local businesses, artificial reefs can have a positive impact on local economies. These purpose built reefs are be considered a ‘win-win’ for the economy and the environment.

In some instances, however, the negative ecological impacts of poorly designed and sited artificial reefs may outweigh potential economic gains. For example, development of artificial reefs may cause an increase in overall visitation to an area, meaning more visitors to both artificial and natural reefs. Or, if artificial reefs are not carefully planned or constructed, they can actually damage natural habitats. In addition, monitoring observations indicate that some artificial structures can become habitat and possibly spawning sites for invasive species.

In order to ensure that the desired environmental and economic benefits of an artificial reef are achieved while maintaining the integrity of natural resources, extensive planning, evaluation, and permitting must occur before any artificial reef can be developed.

Long-term monitoring and research regarding use and ecological impacts are important components for future decisions regarding establishment of additional artificial reefs.