Artificial reefs have been used throughout the Mid-Atlantic region to create habitat for marine fish and other organisms.  Appropriately placed artificial reefs have been shown to increase species richness and abundance in the surrounding areas and can be useful tools for mitigating the effects of habitat degradation. 

After an artificial reef is placed, the material is covered by encrusting organisms such as corals and sponges. Eventually, small fish and other marine animals begin to take up residence, followed by larger and more diverse animals. 

There are more than 130 artificial reefs in the Mid-Atlantic region. These reefs are made of a wide variety of materials, including including cars, trucks, subway cars, bridge rubble, barges, boats, and large cables. Follow the links below to learn more about reefs off the coast of the Mid-Atlantic states.

New York

11 Reef Sites

• New York Artificial Reef Program
• Locations of New York Artificial Reefs

New Jersey

15 Reef Sites

• New Jersey Artificial Reef Program
• Locations of New Jersey Artificial Reefs
• Coordinates of New Jersey Artificial Reefs

Delaware

14 Reef Sites

• Delaware Artificial Reef Program
• 2013 - 2014 Artificial Reef Guide

Maryland

30 Reef Sites (10 Ocean and 20 Bay)

• Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative
• Bay Reef Locations
• Ocean Reef Locations

Virginia

23 Reef Sites

• Virginia Artificial Reef Program
• Interactive Map

North Carolina

40+ Reef Sites

• North Carolina Artificial Reefs (includes interactive map)
• Reef Guide

National Marine Fisheries Service

• National Artificial Reef Plan, 2007

Artificial Reef Site Maps

Click on an image to enlarge.