ReefStarter provided a presentation to the Islamorada Council last Thursday, asking for the Village to join them in pursuing a permit for an artificial reef 1200 ft offshore from Sea Oats Beach at MM74.5.  The plan is to install a modular system of integrated concrete blocks, weighing about 6 tons each, designed to mimic the structure and benefits of mature reefs. They are expected to reduce wave energy by 90% and support marine life.  

ReefStarter is an early-stage company founded in 2025 that is developing and piloting submerged breakwater technology.  The hope is that the artificial reef structure would help protect U.S. One from storm surges that have damaged this area of U.S. One and shut off access to points south following storms. And also help restore the shoreline damage and provide habitat for marine life.

ReefStarter is a collaboration between the Florida Institute of Technology, Florida Institute of Oceanography, University of South Florida, and Designer Ecosystems.