Assessment of Natural and Manmade Materials in US Artificial Reef Programs

Date of Award

5-16-2008

Document Type

Undergraduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Applied Science

Organizational Unit

University College, Environmental Policy and Management

Disciplines

Environmental Policy & Mgmt

First Advisor

John Hill

Keywords

Artificial reef, Artificial reef materials, Marine science, Reef remediation, Rigs-to-reefs

Abstract

Natural coral reefs are in a state of serious decline worldwide. The pressures of over fishing, recreational activities, environmental pollutants, and global warming have stressed these marine ecosystems to the breaking point. One of the oldest methods of augmenting natural reef systems is the implementation of artificial reefs. These projects are not as simple as dumping waste or scrap materials in offshore areas. Proper material selection is vital to produce a healthy artificial marine habitat that is completed on schedule and on budget. This Capstone Project will evaluate the most commonly used materials and provide a comparison of their strengths and weaknesses. This comparison provides a valuable tool for project managers as they begin the reef planning process.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

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