Reef association gets a boost from Progress Energy

The Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association was presented Friday, Feb. 11 with a $1,000 check from Bobby Pickels with Progress Energy.

The money will be used to establish the Progress Energy North Side Reef, at latitude 29 46.740, longitude 85 41.608.

 “It’s great to see that folks and companies like Progress Energy see the economic and ecological value in artificial reef programs," MBARA President Bob Cox said.

This will be the second reef built by Progress Energy, the first being the sinking of the "Shady Lady" shrimp boat, which has become one of the finest fishing spots in the Gulf of Mexico and attracts hundreds of divers to our area each year, Cox said.

Since its beginning, the MBARA has successfully constructed over 124 artificial reefs valued at over $1,000,000. 

“This success is all due to our outstanding supporters over the years. Artificial reefs are becoming more important with the loss and damage of our natural reefs. And, the health of our future fisheries heavily relies on the benefits of these reefs providing new and restored habitat for juvenile and adult marine life," Cox said.

Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association Inc is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit volunteer organization established in 1997. For more details, visit www.mbara.org