In 1994, the U.S. sank 100 M60 tanks in the Gulf of Mexico to build underwater habitats. Three decades later, these heavy vehicles host active aquatic ecosystems.
Marine scientists released Kemp's ridley turtles from Gulf State Park with satellite tags to track their migration. In another project, 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 expand shipping capacity, 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.