Old Hathaway Bridge Span 11 deployed 8 May 1988. Verified by Bob Cox 08/13/2006.

This honorary reef was named after the winners of the 2014 Ling Ding Tournament for donating their winnings to the MBARA for artificial reef building. The winners were Team Floridaze: Capt Mitch Coleman, Tennessee Chuck McKibbon, Darrel Key, Bo Blue, Joe and Patrick Sapp. Deployed 28 Sep 2010 and 5 May 2011. Four Florida Artificial Limestone Reefs and one Ecosystem under FWC Grant 10161. Position verified by Bob Cox on 30 May 2020. .

 This reef is dedicated to the 98 Real Estate Group that hosted the 2011 Ling Ding Tournament in Mexico Beach. Proceeds from the tournament were donated to the MBARA to help build more reefs. This reef consists of 1 Ecosystem, 1 Grouper Reef, and 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef Modules deployed 5 May 2011 under FWC Grant Project 10161. Verified by MBARA divers Bob & Carol Cox on 24 Feb 2021

January 5, 1980 – September 18, 2016.

Adam grew up loving the beach. He would spend hours on end when he was young, catching marine life with his net, hunting for shells, boogie boarding, swimming, and fishing. He could catch fish when no one else got a nibble. It was his favorite place to be.

He loved his son, Kaleb and was the very best father. He was patient and fun and started taking Kaleb to the beach before he could walk. We had many special times at our house on 36th street until we sold it prior to Hurricane Michael. Adam loved Mexico Beach and spent many hours fishing off the pier.

He would be proud to have his name on a reef giving fish a place to hang out.

In the future, we hope to take lots of fishing trips out to Adam’s reef and have Kaleb catch a big red snapper there!!

The reef consists of 3 Steel Cable Spools 28 feet in diameter by 19 feet long. Reef height: 28 feet. 100-150 foot separation between spools. Deployed on 20 Sep 2016 and verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox. Position verified on 4 May 2020.

This memorial reef was commissioned by the owners of Mexico Beach Marina to honor Aida Gonzales, the mother of Melba Odum, one of the owners of Mexico Beach Marina. Melba is truly touched to have her mother honored in this way and at the same time being able to assist the MBARA in it’s continued efforts in building reefs. Melba’s father Fred, sisters Aida and Delilah and brother Fred Jr. all sincerely thank the MBARA for this wonderful memorial in honor of such a beautiful and loving soul. This reef is composed of 1 Ecosystem, 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 6 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 12 Jun 2020.

Based on local stories, this is part of an ACMI tower that slipped of a contractor barge during rough seas in 1993. The tower is resting on its side in approximately 60 feet of water. The top of the tower is approximately 20 feet below the surface. This position has been verified by Bob Cox on 5 May 2020.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs (1 with a plaque) deployed on 10 May 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 4 May 2020.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed on 22 May 2023.  Surveyed 4 Jun 2023.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 2 May 2022.. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 30 May 2022.

5 Reef Balls. 4 of 5 eeef balls verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 11 Nov 2013. The reef balls appear to be deployed in a widely scattered pattern making them difficult to locate in the predominant low visibility conditions in this area.

Placed on 17 Jul 2020. 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Verified by Bob Cox on 17 Jul 2020.

A distillation tower (~4 ft. diameter, ~80 ft. long) cut into 2 pieces. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

4 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid modules. Deployed 01/11/2005. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 7 Jun 2011. This reef was named in memory of B.W. Ritch Sr”

10 Reef Balls. 2 Reef Balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Scattered and partially buried.

4 to 5 Reefballs widely scattered. Hard to find. Positioned verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

Five Reef Balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Scattered and partially buried.

Ferro-cement sailboat with 3,000 lbs of concrete rubble added for ballast. Deployed 19 Mar 2011. Length 47′ X Beam 14′ X Height 10′. 1 Florida Special added on 10 May 2016. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Grouper Reef was added on 20 Apr 2018. Verfified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 31 May 2020. POC: Dan Anderson

10 Reefballs deployed on 6/21/2002. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

Deployed 02/07/2007. 25 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef modules with rock panels. Funded by the Organization for Artifical Reefs (OAR).”

This reef was deployed on 2/9/2000 and is composed of 50 tons of concrete culverts and pipes donated by Sikes Concrete of Panama City Fla. This reef is named after Bill Cranford, the first MBARA president who served from 1997 to 1999. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 12 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

In recognition of contributions to Florida’s artificial reef program, this reef is named in honor of Bill Horn for his outstanding support of the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, City of Mexico Beach, and retirement from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission this day of September 30th, 2014. 1 Super Reef W/Rebar Steeple 25′ tall X 15′ triangular base. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. This reef is the first Super Reef of its kind deployed in Florida. Position verified by Bob Cox on 17 Jun 2019.

Placed on 6 Apr 2024.  1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef module, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, wighing 5,000 lbs.

Six reef balls on sand bottom. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016. The structures are clustered together at 20-30 feet apart. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.  Reserved for Gillen.

William Matthew Gillen, Jr.’s legacy will be remembered by many generations to come, the Billy Gillen Memorial Reef was commissioned by his loving wife, Kay Wilson-Gillen, and Billy’s four children. An entrepreneur from Gainesville, Georgia, Billy fell in love with this small fishing camp called Mexico Beach, Florida in 1991. As a large supporter of the MBARA, Billy brought his passion of fishing to his family and friends. Our wish is to preserve our cherished husband, father, grandfather and lifetime friend in this treasured memorial reef as Billy’s legend will never die. Billy Gillen will be forever missed, forever loved, and live forever in our hearts. 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Ecosystems on Piling deployed 7 Apr 2015. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. . This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

9 reefballs deployed 10/28/1997 . Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

2 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid modules. Deployed 01/11/2005. Sponsored by Blue Water Outriggers of Port St. Joe, Fl. Verified by MBARA divers Ron Childs and Jimmy Nicholson on 2 Jul 2011.”

3 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid modules. Deployed 01/11/2005 Donated by Bluewater Outriggers. Position confirmed by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 10 Jun 2011″

3 Reefmaker Florida Special pyramid modules with “Florida Rock”” panels. Donated by Bluewater Outriggers. Deployed 04/25/2006. Verified by MBARA divers Ron Childs, Jimmy Nicholson, and Sherry Slye on 24 Jun 2011″

2 Ecosystems, 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 6 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. This reef has been renammed as BWO 4 with a generous donation from Bluewater Outriggers. They have been a great supporter of the MBARA! Position verified on 5 May 2020.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 1 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef module with rock panels. This reef has been renamed as BWO 5 with a generous donation from Bluewater Outriggers. They have been a great supporter of the MBARA! Position has been verified by the MBARA dive team.”

Super Reef W/Ecosystem Discs 17′ tall X 15′ triangular base. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 18 Jul 2014. This reef is dedicated to Bluewater Outriggers for their continuous outstanding contributions and support to the MBARA each year. Position verified by Bob Cox on 17 Jun 2019.

5 Grouper Modules and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. Deployed on 06/19/2009. Verfied by divers Bob & Carol Cox on 31 May 2020. This reef is dedicated to Bluewater Outriggers for their continuous outstanding contributions and support to the MBARA each year.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs–2 Grouper Reef– and 2 Ecosystems. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 7 Apr 2013. This reef is dedicated to Bluewater Outriggers for their continuous outstanding contributions and support to the MBARA each year.

1 Grouper/Ecosystem and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 28 Jun 2020. Dedicated to Bluewater Outriggers for their years of continued support of MBARA’s artificial reef program.

This reef is named after Mr. Bobby Guilford, who donated labor and equipment to load 300 tons of concrete rubble used to create this reef. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

10 Reef Balls deployed 10/28/1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

10 reef balls deployed on 6/21/2002. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

Placed on 17 Jul 2020. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Verified by Bob Cox on 18 Jul 2020.

12 widely dispersed ARI Pyramid Modules deployed 06/03/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules. Deployed 06/04/2008. This memorial reef was commissioned by the owners of Marquardt’s Marina to honor Bud Odum, the father of Nate Odum, one of the owners of Marquardt’s Marina. The other owner, Bill Mulligan, said “We are pleased to have to help of the MBARA in this project and we appreciate all that they have done for us over the years in building reefs”. The reef is to honor Bud’s true love for the United States of America. The MBARA graciously thanks Marquardt’s Marina for their continued and outstanding support of artificial reefs. Verified by diver Bob Cox 13 Jun 2020.”

This memorial is in honor Robert “Buddy” Jacobs placed on 20 Apr 2018.  It consist of a Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with a plaque and measuring 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide.  Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.  Structure moved from 29 54.547 and 85 32.339 to current location during Hurricane Michael.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed 22 May 2023.  Surveyed 3 Jun 2023.

This reef is dedicated a wonderful jovial lady that supported the MBARA. The reef is composed of 5 Grouper Modules and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef pyramid modules. Deployed on 06/19/2009. One more Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added on 31 Mar 2014. Position verified 5 May 2020.

This reef is in honor of the late Capt Bill Fite. ________________________________________ Do not be sad when you anchor the boat at my reef. I’m not really there and I’m sure not asleep. I am the warm gulf breeze that ruffles your hair. I’m in the salt spray that cools your face so fair. I am the deep hearty laughter in a life fully played. I am the quiet satisfaction of the deal well made…. by a man who also knows how to give. In the hearts of my family and friends I will always live. So do not anchor at my reef and cry. You know I am a legend……and legends never die. _________________________________________ Written by: Krista Morgan In honor and memory of “The Cap”” _________________________________________ 22 ARI Pyramids (2 Sm, 8 Med, and 12 Lg) deployed on 6/3/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures scattered and appear to be mostly buried.”

10 Reef balls on sand and shell bottom in 25′ of water. Reef height 3′. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs–2 Grouper Reef– and 1 Ecosystem. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 31 May 2020.

Placed on 17 Jul 2020 with joint funding by MBARA and CCA. 6 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. 1 Grouper Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 5’H X 9’L X 6’W, 7,000 lbs ea.. Verfied by Bob Cox on 17 Jul 2020.

20 Walter Marine Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules. Funding provided by OAR in the name of Century Boat Company for their support of the Big Bend Saltwater Classic fishing tournament. Deployed 06/04/2008. Position verified by the MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox 17 Jun 2019.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef–Ecosystem Hybrid. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 31 May 2020..

Charlie was a born with a gypsy soul, a long time resident of Macy, Indiana he graduated class of 1976 at North Miami Highschool in the town of Denver, Indiana. He dedicated his high school years dressing up as the warrior mascot; following his true family blood lines of Cherokee and Blackfoot Indian. After high school he enlisted in the US Navy as a Electrical Mechanic for the fight line on the aircraft carriers. After 18 year of service at sea, he returned home to Macy and became an active member of the Macy, IN Fire Department where he served as both a firefighter and first responder however his heart continued to call his gypsy soul. As an Electrical Maintenance Engineer and Machinist he allowed his gypsy blood to lead him where it may. And once again he found himself are the ocean shore.
Charlie lived in Defuniak Springs, Florida for the last 10 years of his life where he has built a network of friends, many of whom have become family. He loved the FL weather and loved living near the beach where he could collect his treasures for the day and share them with his precious grandchildren which are his pride and joy. Trips to Mexico Beach and Port St. Joe were a must whenever he could break away from the mundane and sunsets spoke to his soul. The beautiful weather also gave Charlie the freedom to ride his Harley, a great joy of his life. One of Charlie’s final wished he expressed to his daughter was to be placed in a reef through MBARA so that he could be part are new live and rebirth of the ocean. Charlie was loved by many and will be missed dearly.
1 Ecosystem, 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 6 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef added on 2 May 2022. Position verified on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol cox on 7 Jun 2022.

10 reef balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures widely scattered and mostly buried.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 5 Florida Special pyramid reef modules with rock panels and 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef pyramid modules. Position verified by divers Bob & Carol Cox 20 Jun 2010.

As a tribute to Chuck Guilford, friends made a generous donation to MBARA and dedicated this reef in Chuck’s honor. Chuck is a proud military retiree. He is a fourth generation native of Mexico Beach and former mayor, who owns Charisma Charters which has been running fishing trips since 1972. Chuck was an early pioneer in reef building, putting down artificial reefs off Mexico Beach as early as 1972. Chuck, along with his brother, father and George Holland, used their own boats and rented a barge and crane to build the first Mexico Beach reef known as The Car Bodies. Over the years he has personally been involved in deploying numerous artificial reefs we now enjoy for fishing and diving. After the establishment of MBARA in 1997, Chuck became an avid supporter of the organization. Chuck has a love for the sea and fishing and enjoys sharing his knowledge of both. He will enjoy fishing his reef and hopes all of his friends and other anglers visiting the area will enjoy it also. To assist in placement of future reefs please contribute to MBARA. The reef was deployed 28 Sep 2010. Eight Florida Artificial Limestone Reefs by Reefmaker; pyramid shape–8′ High with 10′ base. Two Ecosystems by Reefmaker; cylinder shape–6′ High with 4.5′ diameter. Three Grouper Reefs by Reefmaker; 2′ H X 8’L X 5’W. This reef was built under FWC Grant 10161. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

Over 50 Goliath (extra-large) reef balls (37 dropped on 6/8/04 and 38 dropped on 4/22/04. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

Deployed on 06/14/2001. 98 Reefballs. Deployed using state of Florida artificial reef grant received by City of Mexico Beach for fiscal year 2000. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. (Photos by Carol Cox)

95 reef balls. Deployed using grant from State of Florida. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

Deployed 06/29/2003. 100 reef balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

2 Grouper Modules and 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef pyramid modules. Deployed 06/19/2009. Verified by divers Bob & Carol Cox 23 Jun 2010.

4 Super Reefs w/Ecosystems (height 25 feet) and 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs (height 8 feet) deployed on 2 May 2022. Funded by Coastal Conservation Association Florida, Duke Energy, and MBARA. The structures are in a straight line extending east and west of the waypoint with 30-foot separations.

5 Reef Balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

22 Pyramid fish havens (12 large, 8 medium, and 2 small) deployed 6/3/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

Comprised of concrete culverts and pipes deployed 12/19/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

50 tons of Concrete Pipes , Culverts, and Junction Boxes. Deployed 19 Dec 1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

4 Chicken Transport Units welded together in pairs placed on 20 Apr 2018. Position verified on 4 May 2020. Renamed to the Costin Moore Reef in August 2022 as a prize from the 2022 annual Kingfish Tournament.

This memorial reef was constructed in memory of Courtney Knight Gaines. 3 Super Reefs 16′ High X 18′ Triangular Base, 36,000 lbs ea. 1 ea Ecosystem on Pedestal 42 inches in diameter x 5 feet high, 4,000 lbs deployed on 19 Apr 2018. On 21 May 2019, 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall were added. Position verified by Bob Cox on 16 Jun 2019. On 24 Feb 2021, 7 Grouper Reefs measuring 5 feet high, 9 feet long, by 6 feet wide weighing 7,000 lbs each. On 2 May 2022, 1 Super Reef and 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added.  On 6 Apr 2024, 2 AJ Super Reefs added with Ecosystems nested inside.

3 Super Reefs w/Ecosystem, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 38,000 lbs ea.; 6 Super Reefs, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea.; 13 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea.; and 2 Grouper Reefs, 5’H X 9’L X 6’W, 7,000 lbs ea. Deployed 13 Mar 2021 under FWC Grant 20015 and verified by Mitch Coleman.

 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Unit deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. This reef was named in honor of a team of spearfishermen that removed over 500 invasive Lionfish from the Gulf of Mexico in 2016 under the FWC Panhandle Pilot Program to control Lionfish populations. Team members are Regina Capps, Bob Stapleton, Doug Wiggin, Mark Elliott, and Bert Floyd. Position verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.

Steel cable reel mounted on a steel stand.  Deployed 10 August 2015.  25 feet long, 18 feet wide and 20 feet high.  On 20 Apr 2018, a Super Reef with an Ecosystem nested inside was placed on the south side of the reel.  Position verified on 4 May 2020.

David Hall Marshall passed away on Wednesday, June 16, 2021 at home surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with leukemia. Mr. Marshall was born on July 14, 1946 in Panama City, FL and lived the early years of his life there. He moved to Dothan in 1982. As the retired owner of Bondy’s Ford, Lincoln, Nissan, Toyota and Kubota, he was in the automobile business all of this life. David loved fishing and boating with this family, and he loved weekends at the beach listening to the Bee Gees. He was a member of First United Methodist Church of Dothan.

This memorial reef consists of 4 Florida Limestone Reefs and 2 Grouper Reefs placed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 27 Jun 2020..

Deployed 10/25/2002. 4 steel cylinders, 24 ft. long x 12 ft. diameter x 1 inch thick. This reef is named after the Deep South Crane company of Panama City Fl. which donated crane services for the deployment of this reef and Smurfit-Stone Reefs 1 through 5. The cylinders lay in a line from South to North of the coordinates posted. They are spaced at approximately 100 feet apart. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

July 3, 1962-September 12, 2021.
Diane’s special place was Mexico Beach before she became ill with early onset Alzheimer’s. She loved spending weekends at our condo reading a book on the patio overlooking the beach. She grew up loving the beach but when we drove into Mexico Beach each time we visited, she knew this was the place she wanted to be. She loved spending time on the beach with her niece, Katherine and loved taking her to the Shell Shack and Killer Seafood every weekend. I am so thankful for those special memories that we will always have. Diane passed away during covid making a memorial service very difficult but know she would have much rather had this reef named for her so a part of her will always be at her favorite place.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 8 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified by Bob and Carol Cox on 18 Aug 2020.

Deployed 04/25/2006. Reef is composed of 3 “Florida Special”” pyramid reef modules with “”Florida Stone”” panels. Confirmed by MBARA divers Bob & Carol Cox on 7 Jun 2011″

On 12 Jul 2024, 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs placed as a memorial.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef 8′ tall X 10′ triangular base. 1 Grouper Reef W/Ecosystem 6’H X 5′ W X 10’L. Deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.

This reef is dedicated to Duke Energy in appreciation of a $15,000 grant supporting the MBARA. 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef–Ecosystem Hybrid. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 7 Apr 2013.

On 11 Feb 2011, this reef was dedicated to Duke Energy for their outstanding support of the MBARA. Their financial support has been cornerstone to artificial reef development off the coast of Mexico Beach over the years. This site has 2 Grouper Modules and 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules. Deployed 06/19/2009. Surveyed by Jimmy Nicholson and Russell Carlisle on 3 Apr 2010. Position verified by Bob Cox on 27 Jun 2020.

Steel-hulled shrimpboat, formerly The Shady Lady, 110 feet long. Deployed on 03/06/2007. This reef was sponsored in part by Duke Energy. The MBARA thanks Duke Energy for their support. Position verified by the MBARA dive team 18 Jun 2010. (Underwater photos by Carol Cox) Position verified by Bob Cox on 17 Jun 2019.

This reef is dedicated to Duke Energy in appreciation of a $15,000 grant supporting the MBARA. 6 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 2 Grouper Reef–Ecosystem Hybrids. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Both structures undetected.

Beth and I loved fishing, especially at or favorite place Crooked Island. We first learned of the Memorial Reef program watching Panhandle Outdoors with Winston Chester every morning with our coffee. We had discussed it with each other and had decided it was what we would like to do. I had no idea it would be this soon, she had just had her 59th birthday a week before her passing. The reef program is very special and I’ve been sharing all my pictures and telling everyone about it, have had so much positive response and many people have said they are going to seriously look it to it for themselves. Thank You MBARA and Walter Marine for this most wonderful way to Honor and remember my beloved Beth. One Florida Limestone Artificial Reef deployed on 22 Apr 2017.

It all started with 2 people (George and Melda) that loved to fish….they raised two daughters (Ruth and Bev) that loved to fish….they married 2 men (John and Timmy) that loved to fish and they raised 7 children between them (TJ, Luke, Melody, Tommy, Daniel, Wade and Bethany) yes, that is right, they love to fish.
Wonderfully, that couple raised those 2 daughters 7 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Guess what? That’s right, they all like to fish and love the water.
One of those daughters (Ruth) fell in love with Mexico Beach FL and introduced it to her husband (John) and her 4 children (TJ, Luke, Melody, Bethany), 12 grandchildren (Noah, Zach, Madison, James, Ethen, Thomas, Blaine, Kylie, AJ, Drake, Camryn, Bryson). They also fell in love with this town and the area. They were blessed to come there on vacation as much as possible and eventually were blessed to buy a home there (Emerald Mermaid). One day along came hurricane Michael and blew that house away. Thank God they were able to rebuild that home and make it better. Hopefully the love of this town, fishing and water will continue for generations to come for our precious family. We wanted to purchase this family reef to provide as many good benefits that these waters can offer to the future generations of family fishermen. We are thankful to have this reef, we named it in honor of our families and the home that God gave us here.
Emerald Mermaid by Charles- Bowling- Yates, Our Family Reef
xoxo Enjoy it as you pass with health, safety and love.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 3 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed 22 May 2023 and verified by Bob Cox.

Average center of 12 Pyramid fish havens deployed on 6/3/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

100 reef balls deployed on 02/12/2003 using grant from Fish America Foundation. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

1 Ecosystem, 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 4 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

10 reef balls deployed 10/28/1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

This reef is a memorial for Frank and Mary Visconti, each with their own reef.

Frank Louis Visconti passed away peacefully on July 16, 2021.
He was born in Fremont, Ohio on June 21, 1939 to Dr. Francis A. and Louise Visconti. He spent his childhood in Fremont, where his parents were the town doctor and nurse. Their office was in the family home, where he was a frequent patient himself; perhaps most notably when he proved that he was no match for the neighbors’ cars driving through the alley behind their house. He attended St. Ann’s Catholic School in Fremont, Ohio, St. John’s Military Academy in Delafield, Delaware, and later graduated from Ohio University. He married Mary Visconti (Hoeflinger) in 1964, and moved his family to Tallahassee, FL on a leap of faith to start the Wendy’s Hamburgers franchise in 1974.
After many successful years with Wendy’s, he went on to build a commercial real estate empire, was elected to the Tallahassee City Commission, and was the Mayor of Tallahassee in 1988. Frank never met a stranger, was always looking for the best deal, and loved spending time at the bagel shop or the bar with his many buddies. He loved fast cars, boats, buying and selling, and he cherished Sunday dinners with his family. He gave generously to his family, friends, colleagues, and often to strangers in need. He was quick witted, outspoken, loved to laugh, played hard, and enjoyed life.

Mary Catherine Visconti was born in Toledo, Ohio on July 1, 1942  to Paul and Virginia Hoeflinger. She was the only daughter among four brothers: Richard (Dick) Hoeflinger and his wife Betty Bajo, Tom Hoeflinger, Jack Hoeflinger and his wife Bev, and Joe Hoeflinger and his wife Becky.  She was preceded in death by her husband Frank; Mary and Frank were married (twice) for 35 years. Mary had four children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Her daughter, Frances, and her husband Philip Sandon; granddaughter Catherine, her husband Mack, and great-grandson Clarke; grandson Caleb. Her daughter, Lisa, and her husband Randy Pridgeon; grandsons Matthew, Nicholas, and Hayden. Her daughter, Lora, and her husband Erich Hauser, grandson Dylan, and granddaughter Larsen. Her son, Brandon Visconti. Mary was an avid gardener, animal lover, crafter, and loved painting almost anything. She enjoyed taking walks, having coffee with friends, a giant glass of ice water, competitive ballroom dancing and spending time with her family. Holiday and family dinners were at Granny’s house, her most cherished times were spent together with her children and grandchildren. Granny was ready for them with a snack, their favorite foods,  and her special chicken noodle soup when they were feeling sick. She was eager to cook them sloppy joes, and she never failed to have ice cream sandwiches. Mary was a board member for the Children’s Home Society, and she cared for many newborn babies waiting for their forever homes. She enjoyed working, and she always liked to stay busy. She will be especially remembered for her work with Wendy’s as a secret drive-thru timer, her years spent at the Maclay Clinic, and her time at Stein Mart. She loved making crafts, and the gift baskets she made were admired by all who received them. She sewed handmade Halloween costumes and she even created seasonal outfits for her favorite cement pig and goose for all occasions. She loved to decorate for the holidays; her house at Christmas, never without breakfast pizza, was the center of every family gathering

This reef consist of two 8′ Florida Limestone Artficial Reefs (FLAR) deployed on 2 May 2022, verified by MBARA.   25 May 2024, Mary Catherine Visconti’s memorial FLAR was added to the reef. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 25 May 2024.

Deployed 04/25/2006. 1 Florida Special pyramid module. Verified MBARA divers Ron Childs, Jimmy Nicholson, and Sherry Slye on 24 Jun 2011

Deployed 06/26/2001. Consists of 512 tons of concrete culverts and pipes donated by Sikes Concrete Company of Panama City Fl. Reef was paid for by a grant from the State of Florida Artificial Reef Program. Named after Dr. Garfield Wilson who served as MBARA president from 1999 to 2001. (Photos by Carol Cox) Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

Old Mexico Beach dredge boat sunk as an artificial reef. This reef was deployed in deep water (120 ft) in the Bay county Site B large area reef permit to the west of the shipping fairway. This reef is named for Gene Childs, a charter member of the Mexico Beach Artifical Reef Association. Verified by MBARA divers Bob & Carol Cox on 9 Jul 2010

5 Grouper Modules and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef pyramid modules. Deployed on 06/19/2009. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 11 Oct 2010. This reef was dedicated by Mexico Beach Marina in honor the Duren family’s outstanding support of the 2015 Forgotten Coast Wounded Warrior Weekend and Fishing Tournament.. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

Gert was born in Germany and lived there until 2014 when he moved to Atlanta GA. He worked as a Master Electrician, and in the course of his work, he visited many different countries including China, Brazil, Australia, as well as every country in Europe.

However, when he first visited the Florida Panhandle, he said it felt like he was finally home.

His alias “Grumpy Bob” came about as he was tired of people not being able to spell or pronounce his name properly, so he called himself Bob when he was out and about… the Grumpy part was added soon after, as his natural German-ness shone through! (He wasn’t really that grumpy, but it made him laugh)

He loved to be either close to or on the water, and he was the happiest man in the world when he was on a boat with the ocean breeze in his face.

As a proud father to Sabine and Issabell, devoted grandfather (Opa) to Jonas and Max, and beloved husband of Debbie, Gert will be missed by many.

The reef consist of 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed 22 May 2023.  Surveyed 3 Jun 2023.

A concrete truck mixer drum and concrete fish havens. A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Both structures undetected.

50 tons of Concrete Pipes deployed 10 Dec 1999. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 12 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

Gordon Warren, Jr., age 87, passed away December 15, 2023, after a long illness. He was born in Chipley, Florida on January 12, 1936. Gordon spent his career as an engineer working for the Florida Department of Transportation for more than 30 years, and was an avid hunter, fisherman, and golfer. He graduated from Auburn University in 1960 and was a lifelong War Eagle. Gordon lived most of his life in Chipley and was a proud civic booster.  Along with his wife Jodie, he chaired one of the carnivals at Kate M. Smith Elementary School. He also chaired the first March of Dimes Walk-a-Thon in Chipley. Gordon introduced Dixie Youth Baseball in Chipley and wrote the grant establishing PALS Park. Additionally, after the City of Chipley obtained a grant to expand Shivers Park, Gordon was tasked with managing the installation of all the new play equipment. He was proud of his work with the Recreations Department and Shivers Park because it was for children. Gordon’s love of fishing started at a young age and he won numerous bass tournaments.  Gordon also loved taking people fishing out of Mexico Beach targeting snapper and grouper.

This reef consists of 4 Florida Limestone Reefs and 2 Grouper Reefs placed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 9 May 2016.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Units deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129.

2 Florida Limestone Artficial Reefs deployed on 2 May 2022.

5 Reef Balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 1 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef module with rock panels. Position verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 10 Jul 2012. On 20 Apr 2018, 2 Chicken Transport Units welded together were added. Renamed to the Gypsy Gentleman resulting from a price sponsored by the Mexico Beach Marina during the 2022 annual Kingfish tournament.”

100 tons of concrete culverts and pipes. The Reef is named after Ron Hale. Deployed 16 Feb 2000. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 11 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

In memory of Dr. Hannon C. Smith, this memorial reef was commisioned by his friend Dr. Michael Williams and deployed in its final resting location on 28 Sep 2010. The structure is an 8-foot high Florida Artificial Limestone Reef with a plaque facing North. The inscription on the plaque reads as follows: In Memory of Dr. Hannon C. Smith April 29, 1971 – June 27, 2010 “May all who see this, Spear a big one!”” The position of Dr. Smith’s reef has been verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 29 Sep 2010 with underwater photos.”

3 Ecosystem and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef Module deployed 5 May 2011 under FWC Grant 10161. Verified by Bob & Carol Cox on 17 Jul 2020. This reef is dedicated to the Hanson Family for their donations to the MBARA.

This reef is dedicated to Henry and Jim by Vance Custer. 1 Ecosystem and 5 Florida Limestone Artficial Reef Modules deployed 5 May 2011 under FWC Grant 10161. Verified by Bob & Carol Cox on 17 Jul 2012.

Henry Coghlan was born April 3, 1943 in Laurel, MS to Elmer and Laverne Coghlan. His love for fishing started as a young teenager fishing the Pascagoula River on weekends with his uncle. After attending local schools, he enrolled at Mississippi State University, graduating with a Mechanical Engineering degree, and going on to receive his MBA from the University of Southern Mississippi. Upon graduation from college, he entered the navy and became an officer within the National Oceanic and Geodetic Survey team (now known as NOAA) on a ship in the Northern Atlantic. He served honorably for 4 years, then started his long employment with Masonite International, finally retiring after 42 years of service in 2010 as Vice President of Technical and Research Development.
Henry married his wife of 29 years, Terri, in 1992. His work took them around the world, living in Ireland for 4 years and South Korea for two years, and spending months abroad in many countries.
Henry and Terri bought their first vacation home in Mexico Beach in 1997 after vacationing there for two years. Upon his retirement in 2010, their love for the beach and ocean was strong enough they built a new home in Mexico Beach as their permanent residence.
Henry was an avid fisherman and hunter, but his greatest passion was his four grandchildren. He loved teaching them how to fish and snorkel.
Henry passed away on July 29, 2021. Henry’s reef consists of
1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by diver Bob Cox on 29 May 2022.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with a plaque placed on 10 May 2016. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structure moved from 29 54.554 and 85 32.372 to current location during Hurricane Michael.

4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 2 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Units deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Dedicated 8 Jan 2015. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

This memorial reef is in honor of James Walton King. He served 30 years in the US Navy during WW II, Korean War, Vietnam War and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Commander. The memorial is a Florida Limestone Artificial Reef measuring 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide with plaques installed. It was placed on 20 Apr 2018.

James William Swiger II , also known to those that loved him as, “Jim, Jimmy and Jimbo,”” wanted to be remembered for his love of the gulf but mostly he wanted to be remembered for the name he was most proud of, “”Dad.”” He commissioned this reef himself dedicating it to the love of his son, Corey, in his desire and final wishes to always be there for his son and to forever fish with him. 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs (1 with a plaque) deployed on 10 May 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 7 Jul 2022..”

This reef is dedicated to James W. Miner. James (Jim) W. Miner, an Indiana Hoosier, was first introduced to Cape San Blas, FL in the Spring of 1992 by a fellow Hoosier turned Port St. Joe resident. Jim and his wife enjoyed their first trip to Cape San Blas so much they returned every Spring afterwards. As their family grew and trips to FL with the kids turned from quiet days on the beaches of Cape San Blas to things like trips to Disney, Clearwater or the Keys, Jim still longed for the quiet beaches and endless fishing off the Cape.
That is when a friend suggested a guy’s fishing trip to the Cape. The year was 1999. What started out as a couple guys renting a house out on the Cape, unplugging from the world for 4-7 days in late April has turned into an annual tradition with 8-10 guys on the invite list and growing. This tradition has carried on for so long that now the guest list includes a few second generations.
April of 2022 will be the last fishing trip off the beaches of Cape San Blas for Jim Miner but his memory will live on through the MBARA on a reef 5 miles due West off the very beach he loved so much.
This reef consists of 1 Ecosystem and 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 4 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

This reef was contructed in memory of Jay Frost. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base deployed on 21 May 2019. Position verified on 4 May 2020.

 In tribute to Jed Campbell: He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has enjoyed the trust of women, the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who has never lacked appreciation of Earth’s beauty or failed to express it (Bessie Anderson Stanley); who has left the world better than he found it, whether a protected reef, improved beach, or a rescued soul; who has always looked for the best in others and given them the best he had; whose life was an inspiration; whose memory a benediction (Bessie Anderson Stanley). 1 Ecosystem, 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 4 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

This reef is in loving memory of Jeff Purcell. Jeff was born and raised in Columbia, Missouri and graduated from Hickman High School. He received a B.S. degree in Fisheries and Wildlife from the University of Missouri – Columbia. Jeff married Kristi Johnson in 1990, and from then on, they made their life together in rural north-central Missouri.

Jeff had a rewarding career with the Missouri Department of Conservation for nearly 30 years as Linn County Conservation Agent and the NW Region District Supervisor until his retirement in November 2010. From then on, his time was spent between Missouri and Mexico Beach, depending on the hunting or fishing season. Jeff loved to share hunting and fishing experiences with all his friends and family, but especially with his favorite hunting partner and first mate Kristi. Jeff made it his purpose to take friends and family on deep-sea fishing adventures and to share something he loved so much with those who might not otherwise have the opportunity. He was so happy when his friends would tell him that he ruined them for any other fishing trip! And now, with this reef, Jeff will continue to help others enjoy the saltwater adventures for which he had such a passion!

25 June 2024, 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall, with an Ecosystem nested inside and 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, 8′ tall, were placed at this location.  Surveyed by Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 25 June 2024.

100 tons of concrete culverts & pipes. This site is named after the winner of the first annual MBARA Kingfish Tournament. Deployed 16 Feb 2000. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Pieces scattered and mostly buried.

This memorial reef is in memory of Jim McCoullough. It consists of 4 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid modules. Deployed 01/11/2005. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. “

3 reef havens. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

Jim Whitright was a dedicated family man who enjoyed outdoor activities, traveling, sports, and having a good laugh. His wife, siblings, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren love and miss him. He was born in 1929, in Cape Girardeau, MO. During the Korean War, Jim served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. He was married to Jane Garner in 1954 and they shared a marriage of nearly 62 years. Jim retired as a plant manager with Southern Illinois Power Cooperative in Illinois. He loved to fish and taught his kids to fish at a young age. After his retirement, Jim enjoyed visiting Mexico Beach to enjoy the great fishing and scalloping. This reef has 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 11 Nov 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 11 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. It was named under the FWC Lionfish Challenge Panhandle Pilot Program. On 20 Apr 2018, a Florida Limestone Artificial Reef measuring 8 feet tall with a plaque was added.

This reef was commissioned by Marie Stephens in loving memory of her husband, Jimmy Stephens and her son, Cody Stephens because of their love of fishing and for the sea. Jimmy Stephens was a generous citizen, friend, and supporter of the MBARA. He was well known for his kindness and spirit among everyone he met and will be greatly missed. 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Ecosystems on Piling deployed 7 Apr 2015. 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 11 Nov 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 11 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017

Two ARI Pyramids laying on their sides. The pyramids were formerly positioned at Lat 29 53.654 and Lat 85 32.391. It appears that these pyramids may have been knocked over on their sides and dragged approximately 350 feet North of their original position by shrimp trawler nets. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

Placed on 6 Apr 2024.  1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef module, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, wighing 5,000 lbs.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with engraved plaque for John and Darlene Cox. Deployed on 4 Apr 2012. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with engraved plaque for Grandson Lawrence W.Cox. Deployed on 10 May 2016. Funded by family donations. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 10 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Three piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 5 Walter Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef modules with rock panels. 3 Florida Specials missing, 1 knocked over, and 1 damaged with large net attached. 1 Florida Limestone Reef with plaque and 1 Grouper Reef added on 10 May 2016. Position verified 5 May 2020. On 17 Jul 2020, Melba’s Memorial joined John’s on 17 Jul 2020..”

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with plaque and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 15 Sep 2016. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 5 May 2020.

12 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, 3 Ecosystems on pilings, 2 Grouper Reefs, and 4 Lindberg Grouper Cubes deployed 4-6 Apr 2012 with funding from family and friends. 2 more Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs were added on 6 Apr 2013 with further donations received in 2013. 1 more Florida Limestone Artificial Reef, 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystem unit, and 1 Florida Special were added on 31 Apr 2014 with further donations received in 2013. 1 more Florida Special and 2 Ecosystems on Pilings were added on 7 Apr 2015 with donations received in 2014. 1 Florida Limestone Reef was added on 10 May 2016 bring the module structure total to 30 each. Approximately 12 structures move .2 nm north during Hurricane Michael in 2018. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

In recognition of contributions to Florida’s artificial reef program, this reef is named in honor of Jon Dodrill for his outstanding support of the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association, City of Mexico Beach, and retirement from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission this day of September 16th, 2016. 1 Super Reef W/Ecosystem Discs on Top–1 Super Reef W/Rebar Steeple. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 16 Jun 2019..

The Kaiser Tug, originally known as the William J. Keyser tug, sank during a hurricane in August of 1848. It was an iron-hulled tug built in 1882 at Philadelphia. It was named after a prominent Pensacola timber exporter. She was 92.4 feet long, 19.5 beam and displaced 97 tons. Keyser had left Pensacola towing the dredge, Herndon, bound for Fort Jefferson in the Dry Tortugas. Hugging the coast, her captain, W.H. Allen, with a crew of 12, was caught unawares by the fast-approaching storm. As the seas mounted and the winds howled, Capt. Allen gave the order to cut loose the dredge. As the dredge drifted away the men began to fear for their lives as the eye of the storm passed over them. All afternoon and evening the coal-fired tug kept her bow into the waves and battled the storm. Inevitably, as water entered her coal chutes, the boiler fires were extinguished. With no power the pumps quit and the tug began to settle into the Gulf. At 1:30 in the morning she slipped beneath the waves, seven miles west of St. Joseph’s Point and four miles from Crooked Island, in 45 feet of green Gulf water. The dredge washed ashore near present-day Beacon Hill and was later refloated. The Kaiser Tug is deteriorated from time and the affects of salt water corrosion. A small portion of the bow and stern remains with its boiler. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

The “Dr. Karl Sinclair Franz Memorial Reef” was commissioned by family and friends in memory of Dr. Franz of Marianna, FL. Dr. Franz was no stranger to Mexico Beach and Port St. Joe. To him, the area held many a great memory. Dr Franz grew up in the Panhandle of Florida and spent many summers as a child visiting his aunt and uncle at Beacon Hill, and later spending time with his family and friends at Port St. Joe and Mexico Beach. Dr. Franz enjoyed the outdoors, especially fly fishing for tarpon, trout, and red fish, and the occasional off-shore excursion for grouper and snapper. The reef not only serves as a memory to him, but also as a way to preserve the place that he loved. 35 reefballs were deployed on 06/14/2000. Reefballs are scattered over about a 150 ft. x 150 ft. area. 8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016.. The structures are clustered together at 20-30 feet apart. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021. Reserved for Gillen.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 7 Jun 2022.

Placed on 6 Apr 2024.  1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef module, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, wighing 5,000 lbs.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Ecosystem deployed 2 May 2022. Surveyed by Bob and Carol Vox on 14 May 2022.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed on 22 May 2023.  Surveyed 4 Jun 2023.

3 Reef Balls deployed 28 Oct 1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

This reef is placed in loving memory of our son, grandson and brother, Kirby S. Watkins.
Kirby grew up coming to Mexico Beach and fishing with his family from a very young age. He loved everything about coming to the beach and being with his family. We will always love and remember the joyful times we shared together. This reef consists of two 8′ Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 2 May 2022, verified by MBARA. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 7 Jun 2022.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 10 feet tall. Deployed on 20 Apr 2018. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 20 Apr 2018. This memorial reef was constructed in honor of Kyle Barron.

4 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid modules. Deployed 01/11/2005. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 22 Sep 2014.”

1 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef module with rock panels. Verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.”

Placed on 17 Jul 2020. 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Verified by Bob Cox on 17 Jul 2020.

When my husband unexpectedly passed away at the young age of 60, my sons and I were devastated and heartbroken! However, we knew exactly what he wanted. Al was an avid fisherman all of his life. From growing up near the Chesapeake Bay to living in Florida and working for a charter company as a young man, fishing was in his blood. He fished in the King Fish Tournament sponsored by the Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association for many years and always knew he wanted to be a part of the ocean. Mr. Bob Cox put me in contact with Reef Maker at Walter Marine in Orange Beach, Alabama and Al’s dream came true. I corresponded with Stewart Walter and Bob Cox via email and everything was ready and waiting for us when we arrived to build Al’s reef. They made this so easy for me and my family! Shane Thomas met us at Walter Marine and guided us through everything we needed to know in order to carry out my husband’s wishes. It was a very emotional time for us, but with so many of our family and friends there, and the support of this association, we made it through. We are very pleased with the way his reef turned out. Thank you, Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association and Walter Marine, for making this occasion special for me, my children, and our family. Paige Brooks & family Reynolds, GA. One Florida Limestone Artificial Reef deployed 22 Apr 2017. Position verified by Bob Cox on 26 Sep 2020.

1 Ecosystem, 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 6 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 2 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Units deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

5 Reef Balls deployed 10/28/1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

The Trotter family wishes to thank the Mexico Beach Marina for their donation to MBARA that made the Marlin Ray Trotter Memorial Reef possible. Marlin was always an outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, guns and just being outside! Growing up in a small town in Tennessee, most of his outdoor time was in the woods and mountains, but he always enjoyed a beach trip too! He fell in love with Mexico Beach the summer before he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Thoughts of the beautiful Mexico Beach white sand and pier fishing with his family always were spoken of with a smile. He dreamed of one last boat trip with our dear friends the Mulligans and catching one of the beautiful Mexico Beach red snapper or a giant grouper. Thanks MBARA for building habitats that support not only fantastic businesses like the Mexico Beach Marina, but also fulfill the dreams and honor the memories of people like Marlin that loved his family, friends and God’s awesome creation. 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs–2 Grouper Reef– and 1 Ecosystem. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 31 May 2020..

2 Grouper Modules and 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef (pyramid) modules. Deployed on 06/19/2009. Verfified by divers Ron Childs and Jimmy Nicholson on 29 May 2010

This reef is composed of a 125 X 32 X 8 foot steel barge w/ a concrete deck. It was deployed on 8 Aug 2003. Position verified by Bob Cox on 26 Sep 2020.

2 Reefmaker “Florida Special”” pyramid module. Deployed 01/11/2005. This reef was named in honor of Marquardt’s Marina for the great support they give to MBARA in 2010. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 22 Sep 2014.”

Four small ARI Pyramid Fish Havens and a car tire. (Per FWC, this is the average center of 21 fish havens deployed 6/3/1999). Position verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.

Martin Gary Jaron 1942-2020
son, brother, husband, father, friend, beshert. This memorial reef consists of

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Grouper reef deployed on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 29 May 20222.

35 reefballs deployed on 06/14/2000. Reefballs are scattered over about a 150 ft. x 150 ft. area. 8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 12 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. 2 piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 4 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Unit deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Position verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.

5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Units deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified by Bob Cox on 5 Jun 2021.

1 Super Reef W/Ecosystem Discs 17′ tall X 15′ triangular base. 1 Super Reef W/Rebar Steeple 25′ tall X 15′ triangular base. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 28 Jun 2020.

2 Super Reef W/Ecosystem Discs 17′ tall X 15′ triangular base. 1 Super Reef W/Rebar Steeple 25′ tall X 15′ triangular base. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Position verified by Bob Cox on 15 Jun 2019.

3 Super Reefs with discs mounted at apex. 18 feet high with 18-foot triangular base. Deployed 8 Apr 2015 under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 15 Jun 2019.

1 Super Reef with Ecosystem nested inside. 15 feet high with 18-foot triangular base. Deployed 8 Apr 2015 under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 16 Jun 2019.

1 Super Reef with Florida Limestone Artificial Reef nested inside. 15 feet high with 18-foot triangular base. Deployed 8 Apr 2015 under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 16 Jun 2019..

2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef 8′ tall X 10′ triangular base. 1 Grouper Reef W/Ecosystem 6’H X 5′ W X 10’L. Deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 13 Jun 2020.

3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef 8′ tall X 10′ triangular base. 1 Grouper Reef W/Ecosystem 6’H X 5′ W X 10’L. Deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 8 Apr 2015.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef 8′ tall X 10′ triangular base. 1 Grouper Reef W/Ecosystem 6’H X 5′ W X 10’L. Deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 8 Apr 2015.

Steel cable reel mounted on a steel stand. Deployed 10 August 2015. Verified by Bob Cox 21 Jun 2020.

4 Florida Limestone Reefs and 2 Grouper Reefs placed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 9 May 2016.

2 Florida Limestone Reefs and 1 Grouper Reefs placed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 27 Jun 2020.

1 Grouper/Ecosystems and 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 9 May 2016.

1 Grouper/Ecosystem and 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 13 Jun 2020.

1 Grouper/Ecosystem and 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 9 May 2016 under FWC Grant 15095. Verified by Bob Cox on 9 May 2016.

2 Super Reefs with discs at apex. 18 feet tall. Deployed on 17 Sep 2016. 10 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 11 Nov 2016. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 18 Sep 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. 10 Grouper Reefs added on 21 May 2017. Position verified by Bob Cox on 30 May 2020.

15 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed 15 Sep 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Five piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

15 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed 15 Sep 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Five piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Position verified by Bob Cox on 7 Oct 2019.

3 Steel Cable Spools. 22 feet in diameter by 18 feet long. Reef height 22 feet. 100-foot separations between spools. Older ARI Pyramid in between 2 spools. Deployed on 20 Sep 2016. Verified by Bob Cox on 25 Jul 2021.

4 Super Reefs with discs at apexes. 18 feet tall. 6 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 15 Oct 2016. The structures are placed in a linear pattern running from SW to NE at an approximate length of 230 feet. From the central waypoint, navigate 210 or 030 degrees for feet for approximately 115 feet each way. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two Grouper Reefs added on 22 Apr 2017. Position verified by Bob Cox on 21 Jun 2020.

4 Super Reefs with discs at apexes. 18 feet tall. 6 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 15 Oct 2016. The structures are placed in a linear pattern running from SW to NE at an approximate length of 230 feet. From the central waypoint, navigate 210 or 030 degrees for feet for approximately 115 feet each way. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two Grouper Reefs added on 22 Apr 2017. Position verified by Bob Cox on 21 Jun 2020.

2 Super Reefs with discs at apexes. 18 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016. 10 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 11 Nov 2016. The structures are placed in a linear pattern running from E to W at an approximate length of 85 feet. From the waypoint, navigate 266 degrees for 85 feet. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. 10 Grouper Reefs added on 21 Apr 2017. Position verified on 4 May 2020.

8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016. The structures are clustered together at 20-30 feet apart. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 7 Oct 2019

8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 11 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 12 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

10 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 12 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. 10 piling mounted Ecosystems added on 9 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021

12 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 12 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. 10 piling mounted Ecosystems added on 9 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

7 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 10 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

A concrete mixer truck drum cut into 2 pieces. Waypoint surveyed on 1 Oct 2020 by Bob Cox. Mixer undetected.  On 25 Jun 2024, 2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall, with Ecosystems nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 25 Apr 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 9 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 25 Apr 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 25 Apr 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified by Bob Cox on 18 Jul 2020.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 8 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified by Bob and Carol Cox on 18 Aug 2020.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 8 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 8 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 8 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified by Bob and Carol Cox on 18 Aug 2020.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 3 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 3 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 3 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 3 May 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 25 Apr 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

6 piling mounted Ecosystems deployed on 25 Apr 2017 under FWC/NRDA Grant 15158. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

On 19-20 Apr 2018, this reef was built under FWC Grant Agreement 17013. The reef runs North and South at approximately 760 feet in length. It consists of 3 Super Reefs, 2 Super Reefs with Ecosystems nested inside, 8 Grouper Reefs, and 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. See Map PDF under Surveys and Map JPG under Photos. Position verified by Bob Cox on 4 Jul 2019.

On 21 May 2019, the following was deployed under Bay County NRDA Phase III/FWC grant 15157. 6 Super Reefs, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 6 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Position verified by Bob Cox 20 Jun 2020.”

On 21 May 2019, the following was deployed under Bay County NRDA Phase III/FWC grant 15157. 1 Super Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Position verified by Bob Cox on 20 Jun 2020.”

On 21 May 2019, the following was deployed under Bay County NRDA Phase III/FWC grant 15157. 1 Super Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Position verified by Bob Cox on 20 Jun 2020.”

On 21 May 2019, the following was deployed under Bay County NRDA Phase III/FWC grant 15157. 1 Super Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. and 1 Grouper Reef mod, steel reinforced, 5’H X 9’L X 6’W, 7,000 lbs ea. Position verified by Bob Cox on 20 Jun 2020.”

3 Super Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 2 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 8 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Placed on 17 May 2020 and verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 17 May 2020.”

1 Super Reef , 25 feet tall, and 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef deployed 2 May 2022. Funded by MBARA.  On 25 Jun 2024, added 1 Super Reef , 15 feet tall; and, 1 Super Reef with an Ecosystem nested inside, 15 feet tall.

9 Super Reefs and 10 Ecosystems on Pedestals placed on 22 May 2023 under FWC Grant 22004.    Surveyed 10 Jun 2023.

Concrete mixer truck drum. Waypoint surveyed on 1 Oct 2020 by Bob Cox. Mixer undetected.  Buried of moved.  On 25 Jun 2024, 2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall, with Ecosystems nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.  On 15 Jul 2024, surveyed by Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

Placed 6 Apr 2024.  5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, weighing 5,000 lbs each.  And, 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each.  Length of reef is 185 feet.

1 Super Reef with Offset Ecosystem nested inside, 15′ tall.  1 Super Reef with Ecosystem nested inside, 15′ tall.  Deployed 6/11/2024 under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.  Surveyed by Bob Cox on 7/5/2024.

2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall.  1 Super Reef with Ecosystem nested inside, 15′ tall.  And, 1 Super Reef with Offset Ecosystem nested inside, 25′ tall.  Deployed 6/11/2024 under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.  Surveyed 6/11/2024 by Bob Stapleton and DJ Moore.

1 Super Reef, 15′ tall.  2 Super Reefs with Ecosystem nested inside, 15′ tall.  And, 1 Super Reef with Ecosystem nested inside, 25′ tall.  Deployed 6/11/2024 under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.

On 25 Jun 2024, 2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall; 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside; and 1 Super Reef, 25′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.  Surveyed by Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon on 25 Jun 2024.

On 12 Jul 2024, 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall; 2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside; and 1 Super Reef, 25′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.

On 12 Jul 2024, 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall; 2 Super Reefs, 15′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside; and 1 Super Reef, 25′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.

On 12 Jul 2024, 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall; 1 Super Reef, 15′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside; and 1 Super Reef, 25′ tall with Ecosystem nested inside were deployed under FWC Grant Agreement 21370.  On 12 Jul 2024, visual and video survey performed by Bob and Carol Cox and Brian and Kimberly Higdon.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 1 Walters Marine Florida Limestone Artificial Reef. Position has been verified by the MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 23 Jul 2014. On 20 Apr 2018, 2 Chicken Transport Units welded together were added.

Deployed on 07/19/2001. 200 foot long steel hopper barge. TPosition verified by Bob Cox on 26 Sep 2020.

This reef’s position has been verified by the MBARA dive team on 11 Sep 2009. Composed of 50 tons of concrete culverts and pipes deployed 10 Dec 1999. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 14 Oct 2016/11 Nov 2016. The structures are clustered together at 20-30 feet apart. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 2 May 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

This reef was built to give friends and family a place to commit the ashes of their loved ones to the sea. Burial at sea is an ecological way to provide a final resting place. Deployed 28 Sep 2010 8 Florida Artificial Limestone Reefs (FLAR) by Reefmaker; Pyramid shape–8′ High with 10′ base. 1 Ecosystem by Reefmaker; Cylinder shape–6′ High with 4.5′ Diameter. The coordinates above are for the Ecosystem at the center of the array. The 8 FLARs in the array lay North, West, South and East of the array center at distances ranging from 20-190 feet. This site has been verified by MBARA research divers Carol and Bob Cox on 15 May 2013.

Michael Lee Golden, March 11, 1961-December 28, 2014. This reef was commissioned by Kelly Golden in honor of her husband Michael Golden. Michael was a retired air traffic controller from Atlanta Center, where he worked for 27 years. He was an avid diver for many years and loved being on and around the ocean. Among his other hobbies were snow skiing and riding his motorcycle. He helped Kelly raise three wonderful sons Zack, Matthew, and Josh Thomas. He also leaves behind one beautiful grandson, Mason. He was a wonderful, fun-loving man with a huge heart and a brilliant smile. He is missed by many friends and family. Michael, you are Forever In Our Hearts! 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with a plaque placed on 10 May 2016. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 11 Nov 2016. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox 11 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017.

4 Super Reefs with disc at apex. 18 feet tall. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. Deployed on 17 Sep 2016. 2 Ecosystems on Pedestals added 11 Nov 2016. The structures are placed in a linear pattern running from East to West at an approximate length of 400 feet. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Three Grouper Reefs added on 21 Apr 2017. Position verified 4 May 2020.

5 reef balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures scattered and mostly buried.

5 reef balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures scattered and mostly buried.

Mike Trombley was one of the original founders of MBARA and helped it to become one of the most active volunteer artificial reef programs in Florida. Concrete culverts & pipes on sand bottom in 20′ of water. Reef height 4′. Deployed 9 Feb 2000. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall added on 10 Nov 2016. This reef addition was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Two piling mounted Ecosystems added on 26 Apr 2017. Verified 3 Jan 2021

This reef is to honor the faithful service of military members that make great sacrifices for our country! Certificates for each honoree are listed under Reef Surveys on this page. Three Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and one Grouper Reef deployed on 22 Apr 2017. Three Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs where added on 20 Apr 2018. One had a plaque for the 2018 addition. Position verified on 4 May 2020.

Cement mixer drum. A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures undetected.

A concrete mixer truck drum. Waypoint surveyed on 1 Oct 2020 by Bob Cox. Mixer undetected.

Waypoint surveyed on 1 Oct 2020 by Bob Cox. Mixer undetected.

Concrete culverts & pipes. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures undetected.

5 Reefmaker Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. Deployed on 06/04/2008. Verified by divers Bob & Carol Cox on 4/19/2010

100 ft. long steel barge w/ concrete culvert boxes. Deployed June 26, 2007. Funded primarily by the Organization for Artificial Reefs (OAR). The MBARA extends their thanks to OAR. Position verified by the MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox 31 May 2020.

In recognition of her passion for diving and underwater photography, this reef was commemorated for her 60th birthday. This gift comes with love from her late father William Scheer Lewis and his wife Barbara Johnson Lewis. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 2 Grouper Reef–Ecosystem Hybrids. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

Deployed 02/22/2007. 10 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef modules with rock panels. Position verified and photographed by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 20 Sep 2010. The owners of Mexico Beach Marina are pleased to work with the MBARA to dedicate a reef in honor of Pat Mulligan, the father of one of the owners and an avid fisherman. The owners of Mexico Beach Marina are thankful for MBARA and all the work they do to increase marine life in the local area. The MBARA also graciously thanks Mexico Beach Marina for their continued and outstanding support of artificial reefs.”

1 Super Reef with Ecosystem Discs on top. 17 feet tall with 15-foot triangular base. Deployed 1 Apr 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 31 May 2020. This reef is dedicated to PENN Fishing for their generous donations to MBARA. On 10 May 2016, a Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 2 Chicken Coops were added to the reef.

4 Super Reefs with disc at apex. 18 feet tall. 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. Deployed on 17 Sep 2016. 2 Ecosystems on Pedestals added 11 Nov 2016. The structures are placed in a linear pattern running from East to West at an approximate length of 400 feet. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Three Grouper Reefs added on 21 Apr 2017. Position verified 4 May 2020.

3 Super Reefs with discs mounted at apex. 18 feet high with 18-foot triangular base. Deployed 8 Apr 2015 under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by Bob Cox on 12 Jun 2020.

10 reefballs. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

This reef is dedicated to the memory of R.H. “Harrell” Guy, Jr. 2 Grouper Modules and 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules with rock panels. Deployed on 06/19/2009.

3 Grouper Modules and 2 Reefmaker Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs. Deployed 06/19/2009. Verified by divers Bob & Carol Cox on 4/19/2010

The Raymond Miles Memorial Reef is named after Raymond Miles from Bainbridge, Georgia, who was one of the first people to support the MBARA back in l997. He was a wonderful man who gave continuously to others in his local community. He was a successful businessman, a loving father and husband, and he loved to fish around Mexico Beach with his lovely wife, Sam. King mackerel was his favorite fish to catch. He died in October of 2010 at the age of 85. This reef will honor him memory and his many accomplishments during his lifetime. The reef is comprised 1 Ecosystem and 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs Modules deployed 5 May 2011 under FWC Grant 10161. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

This reef is dedicated to Recreational Fishing Alliance Joinrfa.org by Mexico Beach Marina. Steel cable reels mounted on a steel stand. Deployed 10 Aug 2015. 38 feet long, 22 feet wide and 23 feet high. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 4 May 2020.

10 Reef Balls widely scattered. Deployed 10/28/1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

11 Concrete Reef Balls in 3″ of mud over hard sand bottom in 61′ of water. Reef height 3′. Deployed 10/28/1997. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures mostly buried.”

Chuck and Mary-Lou Reid resided in New Jersey raising 3 children. They had a very passionate love of the ocean. Through the years they passed this love along to their Children, Relatives and numerous friends. Chuck spent many days and hours fishing the surf on the Jersey Shore and Mary-Lou enjoyed a comfy chair at the beach with a good book. The Reid Children, Grand Children and Great Grand Children continue this tradition with trips to the Bay and Gulf County beaches. This great memorial to Chuck and Mary-Lou is a lasting tribute to their love of family and the ocean. A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Condition of structure uncertain and possibly buried.

This reef is placed in loving memory of our dad, Robert (Bob) L. Boyd. Bob served in The U.S. Navy as an ATN2 and did specific work on the Loran-C navigation system. Bob loved to fish as much as anything and we will always remember his joy of being on the water. This reef consists of 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs deployed on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 30 May 2022..

Placed on 17 Jul 2020. 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Verified by Bob Cox on 18 Jul 2020.

Average center of 8 Pyramid fish havens. Deployed on 6/3/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 29 May 2022.

“Sharyn Joy Kerns” September 11, 1950 – November 17, 2015. The spelling of “Sharyn”. Her Father named her. He wanted to Share in the Joy. Joy simply loved. Joy loved her family, friends, making music with her flute or piccolo, her bees, gardening, selling her produce and honey at the local Farmers Market, travel, cross word puzzles, dogs, being near the sea, fishing, along with an insatiable curiosity for the world. And she loved me. Raised primarily in Irving, TX, and living near Lake Dallas, TX, Joy moved for work to the Atlanta, GA area in 1991. In 1995, on the Front Porch of the house they had built together, with friends and neighbors present, she married Terry Kerns. A few years later they were able to buy a Canal Front Townhouse together in Mexico Beach that would become a gathering place for those family and friends that she loved so much. Weeks filled with laughs, good food, drinks, storytelling and of course fishing. Most years also included a “Girls Trip” to Apalachicola via the Intracoastal Waterway. In their twenty-five or so years together, Joy and Terry were able to not only do all the things they loved but were ready to move it all to a bigger stage. Joy was planning to retire in early 2016 and together they would start that “retirement” with a trip to Peru, an Amazon River Trip and the Galapagos Islands. In October of 2015, Joy was diagnosed with cancer, and shortly after began her first chemotherapy treatments. Within days of starting the treatments, she became sick from the treatments and subsequently passed away on November 17. Joy is buried at the Georgia National Cemetery near Canton, GA. Joy was a member of the Roswell New Horizons Band in Roswell, GA and a member of the Georgia Farm Bureau. She never met a Posted or No Trespassing Sign that didn’t mean “except for Joy”. She always wanted to see what was on the other side. Terry’s Obituary: Terry Madison Kerns loved many things in life. Many would agree four main loves of his life were his wife Joy, his family, working in his garden and living in Mexico Beach, Fla. In 1998 Terry and Joy were looking for a Florida get away home. Many of the towns they were familiar with were over built lacked the home town feel they hoped to find in their second home. A friend suggested Mexico Beach. They immediately fell in love with the town and its unique charm. They found a community of like-minded anglers who supported their ever-growing love off the water. Over the years Terry spent more and more time in Mexico Beach developing friendships and becoming increasingly civic-minded with the local community. In Mexico Beach he hosted friends and family, participated in numerous fishing tournaments, and helped many have memories that will last a lifetime. Terry knew every restaurant and store within 20 miles and could share a story of what made each of them special. In 2013 Terry and Joy decided to begin the transition to become full-time Mexico Beach residents. One night they went to buy a few fishing poles from a family who were selling off most of their things and moving out west. Terry bought the fishing poles…and then the whole house. Unfortunately, Terry and Joy were never able to fully make the transition to Florida. Joy passed away in 2015 and almost two years to the day later he joined her. Terry Kerns lived a life that took him all over the globe. bHe visited almost every continent and explored cities and taverns all over the world. Through all this the placed he felt most at home was on the water off of Mexico Beach. Please join his family and friends the next time on the water and pass over his and Joy’s reefs. Lift a glass to Terry and his adopted home. 3 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs (1 with a plaque) and 1 Grouper Reef. Verified by MBARA diver Bob Cox on 10 May 2016. Two Ecosystems on pedestals added on 22 Apr 2017 to the North end of the reef. On 20 Apr 2018, a memorial for her husband,Terry Kerns, was added and consist of a Florida Limestone Artificial Reef with a plaque. Position verified on 4 May 2020.

Sherman Tug. Verified by Bob Cox on 21 Jun 2020.

This reef is sponsored by Shipwreck Raw Bar in support of MBARA! Two cable spools mounted on stands and three Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs (FLAR) deployed on 12 May 2016. Verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 12 May 2016. Spool dimensions are 30 feet long by 16 feet wide by 14 feet high and weigh 23 tons each. The FLARs are 8 feet high with 10-foot triangular bases. On 20 Apr 2018, a Super Reef with an Ecosystem inside was added between the spools. Position verified by Bob Cox on 26 Sep 2019.

50 tons of concrete culverts and pipes deployed on 01/13/2000. Position verified by Bob Cox on 26 Sep 2020.

Four metal cylinders (12 ft. diameter, 24 ft. long, 1 inch thick metal) donated by Smurfit-Stone of Panama City Fl. Deployed on 09/19/2002. The position of this reef has been verified by MBARA Bob Cox on 17 Jul 2020. (Underwater photos by Carol Cox)

4 cylinders (each 12 ft. diameter, 24 ft. long, 1 inch thick metal) donated by Smurfit-Stone of Panama City Fl. Deployed on 09/18/2002. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

Two metal cylinders (12 ft. diameter, 24 ft. long, 1 inch thick metal) donated by Smurfit-Stone of Panama City Fl. Deployed on 09/19/2002. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

2 metal cylinders (12 ft. diameter, 24 ft. long, 1 inch thick metal) donated by Smurfit-Stone of Panama City, Fl. Deployed on 09/18/2002. Location side-scanned by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020 without cylinders detected. It’s highly likely they are buried.

Deployed 10/25/2002. 2 steel cylinders, 24 ft. long x 12 ft. diameter x 1 inch thick. Donated by Smurfit-Stone Inc. of Panama City Fl. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

9 Reef balls on sand bottom in 61′ of water. Reef height 3′. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs–2 Grouper Reef– and 2 Ecosystems. Deployed 6 Apr 2013 with funding from FWC Grant 12102 and MBARA. Position verified by deployment supervisor–Bob Cox–on 7 Apr 2013. This reef is dedicated to Congressman Steve Southerland II and family by the owner’s of Mexico Beach Marina ( Odum’s and Mulligan’s) in appreciation for Steve and his family’s dedication in representing the values that this great Country was founded upon. Position verified on 6/27/2020.

10 reef balls deployed 10/28/1997. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020. Structures undetected.

This reef is dedicated to the St Joe Community Foundation for their outstanding support of artificial reef programs enhancing fisheries and marine habitat for commercial and recreational uses. 2 Super Reefs with discs mounted at apex. 18 feet high with 18-foot triangular base. Deployed 8 Apr 2015 under FWC Grant Agreement 14019. Position verified by MBARA Divers Bob Cox on 23 Jun 2015.

Placed on 17 Jul 2020 with joint funding from MBARA and St Joe Community Foundation. 9 Super Reefs, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 9 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 13 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. 2 Grouper Reefs, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 5’H X 9’L X 6’W, 7,000 lbs ea. Verified by Bob Cox on 18 Jul 2020.”

Cement Mixer. Waypoint surveyed by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structure undetected.

In loving memory of Stephen “Papa” Menard (1961-2020). A loving family man and a ray of sunshine. He was a jack of all trades who always had a smile on his face and a joke or two up his sleeve. He was a staple in our community, helping out whenever needed. His heart was big! He was introduced to Mexico City Beach in 2012 and fell in love with it! Visiting 2-3 times a year, fishing out in the boat or soaking up some rays on the beach. It was a place he could relax and be stress free. His motto was “Live life everyday as if it was your last” he did just that!! This artificial reef is dedicated to a loving husband, father, uncle and Papa!! You will be missed greatly until we meet again. Eternally fishing and at peace!! Love Always, your family! (The reef consists of 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Unit deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Position verified by Bob Cox on 31 May 2020.)

1 Grouper Module and 1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef. Deployed on 06/04/2008. Verified by divers Bob & Carol Cox on 4/19/2010module with rock panels. Deployed 06/19/2009. Verified by MBARA divers Bob & Carol Cox on 6 May 2012.

This reef is named after Steve Mason. His wife Debbie wrote the following in memory of Steve: “Steve was a travel agent by trade & he loved to travel. His favorite place to go to relax and chill out was Mexico Beach. He frequently talked of the day when we could retire and that was our number 1 location. Our family has some peace knowing he is resting peacefully and permanently at Mexico Beach. Everyone I have talked to and encountered with the MBARA has been wonderful. I truely appreciate all the extra details you helped me to arrange. I look forward to frequent visits to Mexico Beach and hopefully will be able to retire there in the future.”” – DEBBIE MASON. This reef is composed of 21 pyramid fish havens deployed 6/3/1999. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. “

This Memorial Reef was deployed on 28 Sep 2010 in memory of Stewart Unkles Jr., USMMA ’45. The memorial was comissioned by his son, Stew Unkles. The structure is a Florida Special made of steel and steel reinforced concrete. It’s 10 feet high. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020.

1 Ecosystem, 3 Grouper Reefs, and 1 Florida Limestone Artficial Reef Modules deployed 5 May 2011 under FWC Grant 10161. Verified by MBARA divers Bob & Carol Cox on 11 May 2011. Chuck retired from the Tennessee Department of Conservation in 1999 and moved to Mexico Beach. He loves to fish and enjoys every day of his life. He considers Mexico Beach paradise on Earth. Position verified by Bob Cox on 30 May 2020.

3 Super Reef, steel reinforced concrete/limestone, 15’H X 15-ft triangular base, 36,000 lbs ea. 1 Ecosystem on Pedestal 5’H X 42″ Dia, 4,000 lbs each. 9 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef mod, steel reinforced concrete, 8’H X 10-ft triangular base, 5,000 lbs ea. Placed on 17 May 2020 and verified MBARA diver Bob Cox on 17 May 2020. On 24 Feb 2021, 27 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8’H X 10-ft triangular base at 5,000 lbs ea. The overall dimension of this reef are 485 feet long by 80 feet wide. “

 Deployed 02/22/2007. 10 Walters Marine “Florida Special”” pyramid reef modules with rock panels. Position verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 31 May 2020. “

This reef is dedicated to the Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation for its outstanding support to the MBARA. 4 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs and 1 Grouper Reef/Ecosystems Unit deployed 31 Mar 2014 under FWC Grant 13129. Position verified on 16 Jun 2019.

Renamed from MB-223 to The SandHunt on 16 May 2022 and this reef consists of 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs measuring 8 feet tall. Deployed on 10 Nov 2016. This reef was constructed under FWC Grant 15158 with funds from the Natural Resources Damage Assessment Phase III. Verified 3 Jan 2021.

4 Reefmaker “Florida Special” pyramid modules.  Deployed 01/11/2005. This reef was commissioned as memorial and tribute to Tom Maher.  Tom was an Environmental Specialist with the Department of Environmental Protection’s (later the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission’s) State Artificial Reef Program for nine years (from 1992 to 2001).  Tom was a member of the state’s artificial reef dive assessment team, managed state and federal contracts for artificial reef development and monitoring, provided technical assistance to stakeholders and helped develop policies and rules to improve artificial reef management in Florida.  Tom was an active participant in the activities of both the Gulf and Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission’s Artificial Reef Sub-Committees.  After his retirement from FWC Tom remained active in artificial reef management, construction, monitoring and research.  Tom served as a board member of the Reef Ball Foundation, and was an active member of the Florida chapter of the American Fisheries Society.  Tom presented papers at two international conferences on artificial reefs and artificial reef habitats (CARAH) that included the 6th CARAH in San Remo, Italy; and 8th CARAH in Biloxi, MS.  Tom was a co-editor for the 2005 8th CARAH proceedings.  Tom was a tireless advocate of responsible reef development and was always ready to share his experience and expertise with others.  During the severe hurricane seasons of 2004 and 2005, Tom used his considerable administrative and organizational skills to support the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in contract management activities during hurricane recovery efforts.  A big joy in Tom’s life was being a great Dad to his two sons, Daniel and Douglas.  He took great pride in both boys and always put them first in his life.  They were diving on artificial reefs, fishing and getting exposure to the marine environment at an early age.  Tom supported both the athletic and academic achievements of his sons, now both teenagers.  Tom was energetic, creative and outspoken.  He was a tenacious “force of nature” as one colleague described him.  We have lost both a colleague and friend with Tom’s passing.  Reef position verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 10 Jun 2011.

4+ Concrete reef balls on sand bottom in 65′ of water. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

4 Reef Balls. Position verified by Bob Cox on 1 Oct 2020. Structures scattered and partially buried.

This the wreck of the Vamar (also known as the “Lumber Ship””). The vessel lays in approximately in 25 feet of water and is visible from the surface when water is clear. Vamar is protected by Florida laws forbidding unauthorized disturbance, excavation, or removal of artifacts. Verified 3 Jan 2021.”

Wayne Reed left quite a legacy. He was born in Rockville, CT on 9/27/56 and he went home to be with his Lord Jesus on 9/23/21. He leaves behind his wife Susan (married 42 years) as well as his 3 sons and daughters-in-law: Jarrod (Megan), Tyler (Lauren), and Caleb (Lyndsey), and 9 grandchildren: Eliaya, Elora, Ezra, Alethia, Anastasia, Aria, Olivia, Constance and Penelope. Wayne loved the ocean: fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and enjoying the beach. He received his undergraduate degree in Oceanography and Environmental Technology from the Florida Institute of Technology in 1979.  He would have loved nothing better than to know that he would forever be remembered for his love for the ocean and for doing his part to protect the environment.  The Wayne Reed Memorial Reef does just that – set in waters off the coast of Mexico Beach, FL which was devastated by Hurricane Michael in 2019 – the reef will help to reduce storm surge from future storms and provide a permanent home for marine life. It stands as a permanent memorial to Wayne’s life well-lived and a love and appreciation for the ocean His Lord created. His marker in the reef reads “Love God. Love people. Live like it.”

The reef consists of 2 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef structures placed 22 May 2023.  Surveyed 3 Jun 2023.

In memory of William Lacey Baker (1946-2021).
A truly loving husband, father, uncle, grandfather and Great Pop! He grew up in Miami Florida, where his deep love of the ocean began as a young boy! Later serving his country in the Army, then becoming a father of 3, his favorite vacation spot became Mexico City Beach. From trolling at the buoys for kings, to bottom fishing at the car bodies and towers for red snapper and grouper. Always ending the day with a swim off the tip of Cape Sand Blast’s small island. Every morning, we would go to Piggly Wiggly for bacon and eggs, then go under the big bridge to watch the shrimp boats go out before we headed out to fish for the day. There is no other place he would want to be laid to rest. This was his home away from home. This artificial reef is dedicated to him and named “Pop’s Getaway” which was the name of his boat! Where everyday is a day to fish, so don’t worry or feel sad for him, he is now forever fishing with the master of the sea!! We love you Pop!! He has eternally Gone Fishing!! This reef consists of 1 Ecosystem, 5 Florida Limestone Artificial Reefs, and 1 Grouper Reef deployed 6 Apr 2012 under FWC grant 11224 and MBARA funding. This reef’s location was verified by MBARA divers Bob and Carol Cox on 31 May 2020.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef measuring 10 feet tall. Deployed on 20 Apr 2018. This memorial reef was constructed in honor of William T. Reiners III. Position verified on 5 May 2020.

1 Florida Limestone Artificial Reef and 1 Grouper Reef deployed on 2 May 2022. Surveyed by divers Bob and Carol Cox on 29 May 2022.

10 Concrete reef balls on sand bottom in 69′ of water. Reef Height 3′. This reef has been surveyed and its position verified by the MBARA dive team. Deployed 10/28/1997 A Florida Limestone Artificial Reef was added by MBARA on 4/6/2013. Position verified by Bob Cox on 28 Sep 2020.

5 Walter Marine Florida Limestone Artificial Reef modules. Deployed on 06/04/2008. Position verified by MBARA dives Bob and Carol Cox on 12 Jun 2020.