Posted by Chris on November 12, 2003 at 16:02:53:
SAN PEDRO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 12, 2003--The Los Angeles Board of Harbor Commissioners today gave a "GREEN" light to proceed with the permitting design and construction of an underwater artificial reef to enhance the marine habitat just outside the federal breakwater of the Port of Los Angeles.
Two proposed artificial reef sites were chosen. Site 1, the preferred site, is 1,700 feet southeast of the Point Fermin area and is approximately 57 acres in size. Site 2, at 41 acres in size, is approximately 5,000 feet south of the San Pedro Breakwater, west of the Angels Gate Lighthouse and approximately 1.2 miles southeast of Point Fermin.
"The artificial reef project is another example of an innovative project initiated by the Port to enhance and revitalize the environmental health of the Port," said Larry Keller, Executive Director.
Tom Raftikin, United Anglers Association, commented, "We are ecstatic about the opportunity the reef provides. Hard bottoms have been shown to be 9 to 16 times more productive than mud or sand. This is quite encouraging for fishermen and the fish."
Artificial reef construction is one component of the California Department of Fish and Game's Nearshore Sportsfish Habitat Enhancement Program for restoring or enhancing a fish habitat.
The proposed project creates an underwater artificial reef structure, which increases biota (fish, invertebrates, and algae), while at the same time provides a site for the suitable reuse/recycling of clean construction materials. Development activities in and around the Port generate excess concrete construction materials or require the removal of demolished concrete structures such as wharves and foundations. Historically, these types of materials are crushed and used as building materials, disposed of in landfills, or disposed of at permitted underwater artificial reef sites.
Artificial reef construction would begin in 2003 and continue over time as material becomes available from the Port and other approved entities. The Port of Los Angeles with other state and regulatory agencies will develop and implement biological and physical surveys to monitor the artificial reef.
Contacts
Port of Los Angeles
Sheila Gonzales, 310-732-3506