Abstract

For centuries, humans have increased fishing potential by using artificial reefs (ARs) to provide suitable habitat for species of interest. Other uses include providing opportunities for recreational diving as well as enhancing shoreline and infrastructure stabilization. AR creation for habitat and recreation purposes in United States waters has realized many changes since early programs began. Some of the most impactful of these changes include the elimination of harmful (e.g. tires, white goods and plastics) or ill-suited materials such as thin metals that do not last long (e.g. car bodies and storage boxes). Today’s programs also work to avoid negative interactions with habitats of interest (e.g. corals and seagrass beds) while also deploying materials that are favorable to specific species or life stages for targeted conservation and recreational benefit.

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