180-foot barge sunk off South Carolina's Hilton Head

A 180-foot barge has been sunk off the coast of Hilton Head, South Carolina. This action by the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) adds to the artificial Hilton Head Reef, known as PA-49. The barge was intentionally sunk to create a new habitat for marine life. On March 13, a team worked in tough weather conditions to sink the barge about 15 miles southeast of the Sea Pines Resort. They opened various valves on the barge, allowing seawater to fill it. It took about 45 minutes for the barge to sink to the ocean floor, approximately 50 feet below the surface. The addition of this barge continues the DNR's long-standing commitment to artificial reefs, which began in 1973. The program has built 43 reefs along the South Carolina coast, providing habitats for fish and enhancing fishing experiences. These structures not only benefit the ecosystem but also contribute significantly to the local economy. A study showed that artificial reefs contribute about $83 million annually, a figure that has likely grown due to inflation. The new barge will support various marine life, as fish will likely begin using it for shelter almost immediately. In about 30 days, small creatures will start accumulating on it, which will attract larger fish. To make the barge more appealing to sea life, ten shipping containers were added to it, enhancing its structure. This is expected to be the last reef addition in Beaufort County for this year, though other projects are planned nearby. These include sinking a 102-foot barge near Cape Romain and a shrimp boat off Little River.