LDWF Artificial Reef Program announces deployment of new material to enhance Eugene Island 51 reef

In partnership with CCA, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ (LDWF) Artificial Reef Program helped create the Eugene Island 51 Nearshore reef in 2022 that is comprised of 120 recycled concrete structures. The reef site is about 37 nautical miles offshore, in 17 feet of water; all reef material has at least 12 feet of clearance above it.

The new deployment, also in partnership with CCA Louisiana, is expected to occur in early November. This deployment will add 465 Cajun Coral reef modules (concrete shapes 3’ long by 1.5’ wide by 1’ tall). Designed by technology company Natrx, Cajun Coral is a highly flexible module that is printed and installed by Danos. The technology promotes habitat growth and ecological benefits that strengthen over time. These reef modules will be deployed within the following coordinates adjacent to the 2022 reef and within the permitted area:

“Adding on to an already existing reef is an exciting opportunity for the department as this can promote enhanced fish habitat and lead to greater fishing opportunity for anglers,” said LDWF Assistant Secretary of Fisheries Ryan Montegut. “We are thankful for our partners CCA, Natrx, and Danos and their investment in the future of Louisiana’s fisheries.”

Be sure to check out the LDWF Artificial Reef Program webpage for more information.