Artificial reefs deployed off Collier County to support marine life and recreation

Fifty artificial reef structures have been deployed into the Gulf, 12 miles off the coast of Collier County, to create habitats for fish and sea life. "They'll create an extensive amount of habitat for not only your sport fish, but they'll also attract bait fish as well," said Logan Kennovin of the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida. The Coastal Conservation Association of Florida led the project with support from grants provided by the Collier Community Foundation and Collier County. Longtime members Wright Taylor and Denny Martin were honored by having the reef named after them. "We were just fortunate to be, having this reef deployed in Collier County," said Denny Martin of CCA Florida, Naples chapter. "Fishermen will be able to come out here and enjoy catching snapper and grouper and all kinds of stuff," said Wright Taylor of CCA Naples. The reef structures, weighing between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds each, were dropped into the water using a crane. In addition to attracting larger fish for divers and recreational fishing, the reefs will improve water quality by providing a home for filtering organisms like oysters and barnacles. Martin expressed hope that future generations would benefit from the reef. "That's to know that my kids and their kids and their kids are going to be able to come out and fish this whenever they want. It is completely humbling," he said. Taylor shared his excitement about the personal connection to the reef. "Will I ever come out here? Probably just so I can say, I fished a reef that's got my name on it," he said. The artificial reefs are expected to be fully thriving with sea life within one year. DOWNLOAD the free Gulf Coast News app for your latest news and alerts on breaking news, weather, sports, entertainment, and more on your phone or tablet. And check out the Very Local Gulf Coast app to stream news, entertainment, and original programming on your TV.