UPCOMING ARTIFICIAL REEF DEPLOYMENT SET FOR JULY 8

On June 9, 32 structures were deployed across four patch reefs at the Gulfside 5 Mile Reef site. There are three different structural styles deployed. The reef sits at a depth of 42 feet.

MONROE COUNTY, FL – Monroe County’s Artificial Reefs Program is preparing for its second upcoming reef material deployment off Key West in the Florida Keys. These deployments help create new marine habitats, enhance recreational diving and fishing opportunities, and support the local marine ecosystem.

The following deployment locations are currently scheduled:
• Gulfside 8 Mile Reef Site – July 8, 2026, approximately starting at 9 a.m.
Latitude: 24.904 N
Longitude: -81.556 W

An additional deployment is planned at the following location, with the date to be determined:
• Gulfside 9 Mile Reef Site
Latitude: 24.899 N
Longitude: -81.606 W

Previous deployment, June 9, 2026:
• Gulfside 5 Mile Reef Site
Latitude: 24.79793 N
Longitude: -81.69104 W

Members of the public are welcome to observe deployments from private vessels, provided they maintain a minimum distance of 500 feet from deployment operations. For safety reasons, no one may enter the water during active deployments.

All published locations and dates are subject to change based on weather and sea conditions, contractor availability, or county scheduling needs. Last-minute changes may not be reflected immediately online. Anyone wishing to confirm deployment schedules before traveling to a site should text 786-847-5443 for the most current information.

Monroe County’s Artificial Reefs Program provides valuable habitat for marine life while supporting the region’s world-renowned fishing and diving industries. The Monroe County Artificial Reefs Program is sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the State of Florida. To learn more about the program, visit www.monroecounty-fl.gov/reefs.