In 1994, the U.S. submerged 100 M60 tanks in the Gulf of Mexico to create seabed structures. Three decades later, these heavy vehicles support vibrant marine life.
Marine scientists released Kemp's ridley turtles from Gulf State Park with satellite tags to study their movement patterns. In a separate effort, another reef was placed to honor Charlie Kirk.
On land, Alabama senator Tommy Tuberville suggested naming the Mobile bridge after Jimmy Buffett, pointing to the singer's Gulf ties. To boost commerce, Louisiana opened a new port to reshape Gulf Coast trade. The facility started operating earlier this year to handle freight traffic.
Artificial reefs continue to grow from old tanks and new structures. Regional authorities have taken notice of these ongoing marine and trade projects.