The RGV Reef is a man-made reef located about 13 miles northeast of the South Padre Island jetties in the Gulf of Mexico. Friends of RGV Reef is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and maintaining fish habitats. For more information visit rgvreef.org.
- RGV Reef was created to support the life stages of the Red Snapper.
- Once that is established, the reef becomes a destination for a wide variety of marine life including sea turtles, dolphins, and a multitude of fish – large and small.
- The reef is 1,650 acres, accommodating the first industrial-scale reef fishery in the Gulf.
- It restores lost nursery reef, therefore it contributes to boosting the number of fish in the Gulf.
- The reef enhances tourism by supporting fishing and fishing tournaments which boost the local economy.
- It supports local restaurants by allowing the promotion of a ‘locally sourced’ catch, which appeals to customers.
- The RGV Reef further supports restaurants as more fishermen take part in the ‘We cook your catch’ option.
- Better fishing means more hotel/motel occupancy.
- Reef publicity promotes an overall better sense of awareness in protecting the environment.
- The RGV Reef is a shining example of what happens when a group of people from large and small industries; tradespeople; scientists; game and fish experts; law enforcement, among others, work together on a widely beneficial project.