News Release:
Six Artificial Reefs Planned To Improve Marine Life & Boost Long Island's Recreational & Fishing Industries
Editor's Note: This news item was retrieved and first published through New York State's website.
ALBANY, NY-- New York Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced the largest expansion of artificial reefs in state history to improve the biodiversity of New York's marine life and boost Long Island's recreational and sport fishing industries. In New York's first ever comprehensive program to construct artificial reefs, the Governor has launched an initiative to deploy materials including tug boats, barges, and scows, as well as concrete and clean, recycled materials from the demolition of the former Tappan Zee Bridge. These materials will support the development of six artificial reefs on Long Island at sites off the shores of town, Shinnecock, Moriches, Fire Island, Hempstead, and Rockaway.
The artificial reefs are proven to provide new habitats, restore fishery resources, and bolster the region's economies. Launched during Earth Week, this initiative builds on the Governor's record $300 million Environmental Protection Fund investment, $2.5 billion Clean Water Infrastructure Act, more than $2 million NY Sea Grant program to mitigate Long Island brown tide, and actions taken to ban off-shore drilling along New York's coastline. According to a press release on New York State's website, Governor Cuomo was quoted saying: "The sustainability and health of New York's marine resources is critical to communities along our shores, and by constructing these reef habitats, we are investing in a stronger more diverse marine ecosystem."
For the full press release on Gov. Cuomo's site, click here.