Danos Coastal Restoration Team Installs Innovative Artificial Reefs

Danos' Coastal Restoration service line recently partnered with the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) REEF Louisiana Program, Chevron, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and Reefmaker to complete the installation of South Timbalier Block 63 Reef, an advanced artificial reef designed to support marine life.

Danos' team installed 36 “Super Reefs,” which include structures of concrete, steel rebar, and limestone rocks that emulate natural reefs. The reef design combines both smaller, 8-foot-tall pyramids and larger, 15-foot-tall pyramids to study the impact of size on marine species like snapper. Danos Coastal Restoration Operations Manager Nick LeBlanc noted that these structures are being monitored to optimize future reef construction based on fish preferences.

The project, led by CCA with funding support from LDWF’s Artificial Reef Trust Fund, marks the first use of “Super Reef” materials by CCA. This installation reflects a collaborative commitment to enhancing Louisiana’s coastal habitat by replacing lost fishery habitats across the Gulf Coast.