In an effort to improve the habitat for recreational species like redfish and trout, among other aquatic organisms, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has partnered with the Coastal Conservation Association to enhance the Independence Island artificial reef site.
Improvements will consist of adding 6,700 tons of four-inch limestone to the currently empty portion of the 50-acre artificial reef planning area.
Construction will begin Saturday (Nov. 28), and the work is slated to last about a week.
Located north of Grand Terre in Barataria Bay, Independence Island is one of many former marsh islands that have slipped beneath the waves due to coastal land loss. Turning it into a shoal, the submerged island provided limited natural reef habitat for aquatic species.
The enhancement will provide hard bottom relief in this popular fishing area about 1.5 miles east of Queen Bess Island in the southwestern portion of Barataria Bay.
LDWF and CCA have been partners in this endeavor since 2011. Four years ago, the agencies began enhancement to the area through the establishment of a four-acre artificial reef comprised of 8,000 tons of crushed limestone.
Click here for more information on Louisiana’s Artificial Reef Program.
