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Press Conference:
Wednesday, June 11 2003 There will be a brief presentation, individuals available for interview, and a boat to view the construction of the new reef. Construction can also be viewed from two piers. Directions: Go South from Fairhope on US 98, turn West (toward Bay) on Baldwin County Road 44 (Twin Beach Road), go west to Scenic 98 intersection, cross scenic 98 onto Battles Wharf Road and proceed to the end. ************************ BEGIN ************************* Battles Wharf Reef: The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program is pleased to announce its participation in the development of Battles Wharf Reef. The fifth reef, in a series of 10 artificial structures, is being constructed on Wednesday, June 11 in Mobile Bay. Artificial reefs create vertical structures on the flat bottoms of Mobile Bay. These structures attract many organisms from small invertebrates to large fish, creating a complex habitat for commercial and recreational species as well as others that contribute to the health of the estuary. In 1999, the Alabama Marine Resources Division announced the Roads to Reefs program. Ten sites were approved for Mobile Bay and the adjacent Mississippi Sound by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Battles Wharf Reef construction, as well as other completed artificial structures, are the result of a successful partnership of many government, environmental organizations, businesses, and local citizens. The Battles Wharf Reef has involved contributions from Alabama Wildlife Federation, Coastal Conservation Association, Mobile County Wildlife and Conservation Association, Point Clear Property Owners Association, and the Alabama Marine Resources Division. The Mobile Bay National Estuary Program, a new partner in the program, is contributing $15,000 to the project, roughly half of the total cost. This reef has been planned, along with the ten other sites, but would not be in construction without the catalyst of the Mobile Bay NEP. Sites are developed as funding becomes available. Once established, the artificial reef will act as natural habitat for important species such as oysters, crab, and fish. Recreational anglers will be able to enjoy the thriving fish habitat. ******************************* END **************************** For More Information:
(251) 431-6409 David Yeager Alabama
Marine Resources Division Announcement
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