Construction and Enhancement of Artificial Reefs in the Western Gulf of Mexico

Summary

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will create artificial reef habitat at the Rio Grande Valley Reef Site in the Gulf of Mexico. Concrete, limestone, and shell will be placed in varying configurations to create low relief habitat for juvenile fish.  Larger, more complex materials will be placed across the center region to yield mid-relief habitat for larger, adult fish.  If funds and time allow, a vessel may be placed in the deepest region of the reef site to create high relief reef habitat. The project will enhance habitat for fisheries, build important fishery stocks, and provide increased fishing and diving opportunities.