Recently, BCT, Coastal Conservation Association of South Carolina (CCA SC) and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) completed the first of three projects aimed at expanding and enhancing offshore reef habitat in the Palmetto State. The 106-foot decommissioned tugboat General Oglethorpe was deployed some 30 miles off the coast of Charleston in approximately 100 feet of water, creating vital new fisheries habitat and establishing additional recreational angling opportunities for fishermen.
Deep-water reefs of this nature will benefit species ranging from the snapper-grouper complex to highly migratory species, providing a wide abundance of fish and marine life and making it a true destination for recreational anglers. The next deployment will be off the coast of Georgetown with another 100-foot tug and is simply awaiting favorable weather conditions. Later in the year, a final project will take place with a deployment of similar material off the coast of Beaufort/Hilton Head. These projects represent an approximate $300,000 investment by the partners.
