Enhancement of the Independence Island artificial reef site north of Grand Terre in Barataria Bay was completed early this week. This newest enhancement is another partnership between the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Coastal Conservation Association of Louisiana and will provide additional hard bottom relief in this popular fishing area.
An addition of 6,700 tons of limestone was added to a previously barren portion in the northeast section of the 50-acre artificial reef planning area. The limestone added created two parallel mounds, providing refuge for fish in this area with strong tidal flow. This hard material will create complex structure and habitat for a variety of aquatic organisms including popular recreational species like redfish, speckled trout, black drum, sheepshead and flounder.
Independence Island is one of many examples of former marsh islands that have slipped beneath the waves due to coastal land loss. Now a shoal, the submerged island provides limited natural reef habitat for aquatic species. In 2011, the Department in partnership with CCA Louisiana began enhancement to the area through the establishment of a roughly four acre artificial reef comprised of 8,000 tons of crushed limestone. The initial Independence Island reef was an essential effort to rebuild areas along our coast damaged by erosion, thus replenishing aquatic habitats for our coastal species.
The Independence Island reef site is located approximately 1.5 miles east of Queen Bess Island in the southwestern portion of Barataria Bay. Nearest launch locations are Sand Dollar Marina in Grand Isle and Bridge Side Marina in Grand Isle. Coordinates for the expansion are 29° 18' 32.15", 89° 55' 52.40”.