Florida artificial reef projects have halted following the closure of Fort Pierce-based marine contractor McCulley Marine Services in 2023. The company, founded by John “Boo” McCulley, ceased operations after his passing in 2020, leaving a significant gap in artificial reef deployment along the Treasure Coast and beyond.

Impact of McCulley Marine Services Closure on Florida Artificial Reef Projects

For over two decades, McCulley Marine Services was a key player in deploying artificial reefs from Brevard County down to Miami-Dade County. The Fort Pierce-based business was known for its affordable pricing and efficient service, significantly contributing to marine conservation and recreational activities in the region.

Following the death of founder John “Boo” McCulley in November 2020, the company faced increasing operational challenges. Rising costs related to insurance, permitting, and equipment maintenance eventually made it unsustainable, leading to its closure in 2023.

Recent Artificial Reef Projects Completed on the Treasure Coast

Before its closure, McCulley Marine Services successfully completed several artificial reef projects along the Treasure Coast:

• St. Lucie County: Deployed 500 tons of concrete at the A.A. Hendry Artificial Reef site, located 15 miles southeast of Fort Pierce, on September 9, 2023.
• Martin County: Sunk three separate 500-ton concrete rubble piles offshore in July and August 2021.
• Indian River County: Placed 500 tons of recycled concrete at the JK Patch and Wabasso Fishing Reef during summer 2019.

Challenges Facing Treasure Coast Counties Post-Closure

Since McCulley Marine Services’ closure, local governments and nonprofits have struggled to find qualified marine contractors capable of handling large-scale artificial reef projects. Martin County, for instance, has unsuccessfully solicited bids three times for offshore artificial reef deployments, leaving a ship idle at a Broward County marina awaiting deployment.

Jessica Garland, Martin County Coastal Program Manager, indicated that the county has sufficient concrete material available at the Palm City transfer station for at least three more reef deployments. However, without a qualified contractor, the county has shifted its focus toward smaller-scale projects in nearshore waters and the Indian River Lagoon.

Alternative Marine Conservation Efforts Underway

In response to the lack of available contractors for offshore artificial reef projects, Treasure Coast counties have pivoted toward alternative marine restoration initiatives:

• St. Lucie County: Concentrating on smaller reef modules in nearshore waters off Fort Pierce, aiming to attract gamefish like snook, tarpon, and redfish.
• Martin County: Prioritizing breakwater and restoration projects within inshore waters.
• Indian River County: Continuing oyster restoration and nearshore habitat enhancement programs.

Future Opportunities for Artificial Reef Materials

The closure of McCulley Marine Services coincides with significant infrastructure projects generating large volumes of clean concrete suitable for artificial reefs. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) projects include:

• 15,000 tons of concrete from replacing the North Bridge in Fort Pierce.
• 3,500 tons of material from replacing the A1A Bridge over Sebastian Inlet.
• Additional concrete from the South County Line Bridge replacement over the North Fork of the Loxahatchee River in Martin County.

Despite available funding, including $109,000 from FDOT and $110,000 from the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), the lack of qualified marine contractors remains a significant barrier.

Regulatory and Liability Considerations for Artificial Reefs

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers strictly regulates artificial reef construction, permitting only state and local government entities to deploy reef materials within authorized areas. Private citizens and organizations are prohibited from deploying materials independently due to liability and environmental protection concerns.

Materials used for artificial reefs must meet specific criteria: heavy, stable, durable, and non-polluting. Unauthorized deployment constitutes illegal ocean dumping, carrying significant federal penalties.

Florida’s Commitment to Artificial Reef Development

Florida maintains one of the nation’s strongest artificial reef programs, managed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The FWC allocates approximately $600,000 annually for reef construction and monitoring, distributing over $26.5 million statewide since the program’s inception.

Since the 1940s, Florida has established over 4,442 artificial reefs, enhancing marine habitats, supporting biodiversity, and boosting recreational fishing and diving activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Florida Artificial Reef Projects

What are artificial reefs?

Artificial reefs are man-made underwater structures designed to promote marine life by providing habitats for fish and other sea creatures. They are often built from concrete, ships, or other durable materials.

How much does an artificial reef cost?

The cost of artificial reefs varies depending on size, materials, and deployment method. Typical projects range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Are there artificial reefs near Port St. Lucie?

Yes, there are several artificial reefs near Port St. Lucie, including the A.A. Hendry Reef site located offshore from Fort Pierce, popular among anglers and divers.

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