The Coast Guards Role in the Development of Artificial Reefs Eighth Coast Guard District Waterways Management.

Artificial Reefs During the application phase for an artificial reef, the Coast Guard is involved in two parts: Evaluating navigation safety during the review of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits process. Oversight of aids to navigation marking requirements.

Coast Guard’s Authority to review of U. S Coast Guard’s Authority to review of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permits Port & Waterways Safety Act – 33 U.S.C. 1221 Provides the CG’s statutory basis to ensure the safety of navigation on waterways. Memorandum of Agreement with the ACOE Established a formal process whereby the CG will provide input into the Corp’s process for issuing permits related to fixed or floating structures. My ultimate goal for you is that you define your success, map out a plan for you to get there

Coast Guard’s Review of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Permits Evaluate the Risk of any structure or work that may effect navigation. Make use of input from Harbor Safety Committees, Industry Groups, past accidents and investigations. Evaluate the impact of obstructions to navigation and assist in determining way to mitigate risks to navigation.

Coast Guard Policy for Marking of Artificial Reefs The general rules relating to the marking of obstructions to navigation are found in 33 CFR Part 64. The intent of the policy is to define effective and practical methods of marking reefs for the safety of surface navigation and protection of commercial fishing gear. Each reef is site specific and a PATON marking determination will be made for each site.

Sample Buoy Design Configuration Less than ½ NM One buoy positioned in the center of the reef. ½ to 1 NM One buoy in each corner of the reef Over 1NM Additional buoys set on the perimeter at 1NM intervals (or as directed by USCG) X X X X X X X X X X X

Sample Buoy Design Configuration In addition to the general requirements - A lateral aid (red or green) with quick flashing light. Placed between the reef’s edge and the fairway. X X X X Less than 500 yds X Channel or Fairway

USCG Eighth District Waterways Management Artificial Reef Points of Contact: CAPT Paul Dittman (504) 671-2107 Mr. Rusty Wright (504) 671-2138 Mr. Joe Vawters (504) 671-2119