Last week, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos announced the deployment of the final materials to complete the Rockaway Reef project.
“New York’s reef expansion efforts in Long Island’s coastal waters benefit marine habitat, our local communities, anglers, and New York’s environment as a whole,” said Seggos. “The completion of the Rockaway Reef highlights Governor Cuomo’s vision for creative reuse of materials and is a solid investment in a stronger, more diverse marine ecosystem that will benefit the region and future generations to come.”
Construction of New York’s first artificial reef dates back to 1949, and the Governor’s expansion initiative is the state’s first coordinated effort to stimulate the full environmental and economic benefits of artificial reefs. The expansion of state’s network of artificial reefs will provide new marine habitats, promote biodiversity, and restore fishery resources. Ongoing efforts in reef expansion will bolster Long Island’s economy, increasing opportunities for tourism and recreation.
