After years of planning, the first two of the three reefs are finally in place soundside on Navarre Beach! A third set of reefs is set to be installed this summer just south of the park in the Gulf of Mexico. The concept for this project goes back to 1995 with efforts led by local Navarre resident and activist Brenda Stokes. Problems with funding and hurricanes kept the project from getting going until 2009.
These reefs will attract different types of sea life, including oysters, and they are shore reefs which provide a safe place for beginning snorkelers. Each tree is made of concrete, limestone, and oyster shells with spaces between for marine habitat. Check out the process here!
The ribbon cutting took place on Tuesday, May 22nd with a crowd of outdoor enthusiasts in support of the new reef. Photos below.
The Tourist Development Council has provided an initial grant to help with the funding, however, there is still a need for donations through fundraisers like Run For The Reef and Adopt A Reef Tree.
