Twelve-Mile Artificial Reef

12-Mile Artificial Reef

12.0 nautical miles from Moriches and Shinnecock Inlets, 1.33 sq miles
Depth: 123 - 143 ft






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.


Insects are almost completely lacking in the marine environment. I recall something about saltwater having a very bad effect on their lungless respiratory system ( although this does not affect spiders. ) Insects are quite common in freshwater environments though, both as larvae and adults. A little digging can turn up myriad types, but be careful, some of them can bite very painfully.