This week, Monroe County’s artificial reefs program announced its second reef material deployment off Key West in the Florida Keys. These deployments help create new habitats, enhance recreational diving and fishing opportunities, and support the local marine ecosystem.
At press time, the following deployment was scheduled on July 8, beginning at 9 a.m.:
• Gulfside 8 Mile Reef Site
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 on June 9, 2026:
• Gulfside 5 Mile Reef Site
Latitude: 24.79793 N
Longitude: -81.69104 W
2025 Deployment:
• Gulfside 10 Mile Reef Site
Latitude: 24.886575 N
Longitude: -81.703408 W
The public may watch deployments from private vessels, provided they stay at least 500 feet away. 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. More information is at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/reefs.
