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Military Tanks Become Thriving Reef Homes
30 Oct
Summary
- Ex-military armored carriers were sunk to create artificial reefs.
- Vehicles provide hard surfaces for marine life to attach and thrive.
- The project boosts tourism, generating an estimated $83 million annually.
In September 2014, 36 former military armored carriers were submerged off the South Carolina coast to establish artificial reefs. This operation, a collaboration between the South Carolina Army National Guard and the Department of Natural Resources, aimed to create vital hard surfaces for marine ecosystems. Prior to deployment, the vehicles were meticulously cleaned and stripped of military equipment.
These submerged vehicles are anticipated to serve as productive reef material for up to 150 years. They offer crucial attachment points for sponges and corals, and shelter for fish populations. Beyond ecological benefits, the project enhances recreational opportunities for anglers and scuba divers.
This long-standing partnership, which began in 1997, has utilized surplus military equipment to expand marine habitats. By September 2014, hundreds of armored vehicles had been deployed, contributing over 1.12 million cubic feet of new reef habitat. The initiative not only supports marine life but also significantly boosts the state's economy through tourism.
