Port Jefferson Artificial Reef



rock reef
A hopper barge full of rock

All manner of concrete, steel, and stone rubble from dredging, demolition projects, and other construction is used as artificial reef materials. This material is generally available at very low cost or free from construction companies who are more than happy to get rid of it. Transportation costs determine where this material is used by the Reef Program.


Pumpkinseed Sunfish

Sunfishes ( family Centrarchidae, along with freshwater basses ) thrive in small, shallow lakes, sheltered bays of larger lakes, and quiet areas of slow-moving streams. Pumpkinseeds (right) are normally found in shallower water and denser vegetation than Bluegills and Redears. Adult and larval insects make up most of the diet, but sunfishes also eat snails and fish fry.