New Reefs in the Works:

Dog Ballard II: On June 16, 2024, FWC divers and OAR volunteers completed the final dive and video surveys needed to permit a new area near the existing Dog Ballard Reef. In 23 feet of water, the new area about seven miles south of the St. Marks Sea buoy is 1/4 by 1/4 mile. OAR’s plan after the Army Corps of Engineers permit is approved is to eventually deploy up to nine patch reefs within that footprint. Stay tuned for updates on our progress.

Franklin 30-mile: OAR is excited to announce approval of a new area for future reefs in deep water off Franklin County. On June 17, 2024, Franklin County received approval of the required permit from the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for the “30-mile” area, located south of St. George Island in approximately 100 feet of water. In 2020 the Apalachicola Artificial Reef Association drafted the permit application, which was approved by Franklin County and sent to USACE in early 2022. OAR helped AARA facilitate the lengthy permit approval process that finally bore fruit after a little over four years from conception. OAR joins AARA in thanking all those involved for their persistence. This permit lays the groundwork for some exciting upcoming blue water fishing and diving opportunities!