DNREC Sinks Retired Vessel to Expand Artificial Del-Jersey-Land Reef

Image Courtesy of DNREC

SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. – The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has added a new edition to the Del-Jersey-Land Reef, an artificial marine habitat off the coast of Bethany Beach.

The Calcasieu Pass was recently sunk to join Reef Site 13, also aptly called the Del-Jersey-Land Reef for its equidistant locations from ports in Delaware, New Jersey, and Maryland. The 180-foot long processing ship will provide valuable habitat for aquatic life, along with angling and diving opportunities for outdoor recreationalists.

Originally built in 1982 as an offshore supply vessel and later joining the East Coast menhaden fleet, officials say the ship’s final repurposing is expected to buoy both economic and environmental opportunity for Delaware.

“The addition of this vessel to our reef system continues DNREC’s commitment to improving marine habitat while giving retired maritime vessels a new purpose beneath the waves,” said DNREC Secretary Greg Patterson. “The artificial reef system is a driver for Delaware’s coastal and conservation economies, and carries out the Department’s mission of conserving and sustaining our natural resources.”

Over time, marine organisms such as mussels, barnacles, and corals will colonize the structure, creating a thriving ecosystem. As with all ships and other reefed vessels that DNREC sends down, the Calcasieu Pass was sunk only after receiving approvals from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Coast Guard for environmental cleanliness and safety.

To learn more about the Calcasieu Pass and the Del-Jersey-Land reef, click here.