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.
Wildlife researchers 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.
In political news, 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 manage commercial cargo.
Artificial reefs continue to grow from old tanks and new structures. Local officials have taken notice of these underwater and coastal changes.