A new study underscores the economic impact of Georgia’s artificial reef program, highlighting its value to the marine ecosystem and the state’s fishing industry.

Conducted by UGA Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant, the study provides the first economic assessment of the program, which has been managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division (CRD) since the 1970s.

Over the past five decades, CRD has established 46 artificial reef sites across 70,000 acres, transforming stretches of sandy seafloor into thriving marine habitats.

“Any substantial surface that is clean and free from toxins can serve as structure,” said Paul Medders, Marine Biologist Supervisor for CRD who oversees the artificial reef program.

Using repurposed materials, from concrete reef balls to surplus army tanks and retired ships, these inshore and offshore structures mimic natural reef formations, providing habitat for fish, shellfish and invertebrates.

The 41-foot retired tugboat Brenda K is sank at Artificial Reef KBY about 8 nautical miles off Cumberland Island in about 50 feet of water Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023. Georgia Department of Natural Resources photo by Paul Medders. (left) Redbird subway cars donated by the New York City Transit Authority and deployed as artificial reef material at Reef CCA-JY in December of 2002. (right)

The reefs also attract divers and anglers who contribute to Georgia’s multimillion dollar recreational fishing industry.

Led by Marine Extension and Georgia Sea Grant’s Coastal Economics Specialist Eugene Frimpong, the study quantifies the program’s economic impact and gathers critical stakeholder input to guide future investments.

Frimpong surveyed 370 anglers, fishing guides and divers, collecting data on site preferences and travel costs associated with artificial reef visits.

His findings indicate that Georgia’s artificial reefs contribute significantly to the state’s economy. Over the next 50 years, the program is projected to generate net benefits between $38 million to $139.3 million. For every dollar invested in the program, the economic return is between $1.60 and $2.40. In 2023 alone, artificial reef-related activities contributed $8.2 million to Georgia’s economy, with $4.1 million in direct value-added impact.

Artificial reefs also support job creation. Last year, the program helped sustain 44 full- and part-time jobs, generating $2 million in labor income. Recreational spending tied to reef visits was another major factor, with anglers, divers, and fishing guides spending a total of $4.9 million on trips.

Medders recognizes the importance of translating the program’s impact into economic terms, as projects with clear financial benefits are often prioritized by policymakers, but he also values input from stakeholders, particularly anglers and divers, whose contributions support the artificial reef program.

The Sport Fish Restoration Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, takes money from excise taxes on fishing tackle and boat fuel and divides it among states to use for projects that promote fishing opportunities. Georgia’s Marine Habitat License Plate program supports coastal habitat enhancement projects. Both programs keep the artificial reef program running.

“[The study] helps us understand how people want us to spend their money. That’s key,” said Medders.

Results from the survey reveal a strong demand for artificial reefs, with different preferences for reef type. Regular visitors favor large, nearshore reefs, while infrequent visitors show a preference for inshore locations with high relief structures and unrestricted recreational access.

MARTA Rail Cars deployed as artificial reefs on L Reef off the coast of Georgia. Captured seven months after deployment by GA Department of Natural Resources divers.

“Everybody wants bigger and taller,” said Medders, but he emphasizes the importance of considering which species recreational users are trying to attract. Low relief structures, for example, often recruit flounder or red snapper. Both are popular recreational species.

“The high relief stuff is attractive for divers, but the low relief stuff might be better for fishermen and the animals,” said Medders.

Based on the findings, the study recommends securing ongoing funding to expand and maintain reef sites while periodically reassessing their economic impact. It also calls for a strategic approach to reef placement, balancing inshore, nearshore, and offshore locations to meet diverse stakeholder needs. Enhancing public engagement through targeted outreach efforts can help raise awareness of the ecological and economic benefits of artificial reefs, while partnerships with businesses, tour operators, and fishing communities can drive economic growth and attract private investment.

“Artificial reefs play a vital role in Georgia’s economy and marine habitat enhancement efforts,” said Frimpong. “By continuing to invest in these reefs and align management strategies with user preferences, CRD can ensure the long-term success of this program.”

For more information about the study and Georgia’s artificial reef program, visit https://coastalgadnr.org/HERU