CRD, CCA Georgia Deploy “Metalmorphosis” at MRY Reef

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Coastal Resources Division (CRD), in partnership with Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Georgia, recently deployed a 52-foot steel vessel, Metalmorphosis, at Artificial Reef MRY, marking the first artificial reef deployment at the site in 25 years.

CRD staff oversaw the deployment on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. Due to the reef’s proximity to naval training areas associated with Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base, the project required additional coordination to ensure the deployment was conducted safely and in compliance with all federal and state requirements.

“MRY is deeper with clearer water than KBY, which is the only offshore artificial reef closer to the city of St. Marys,” said Cameron Brinton, a CRD marine biologist. “The Metalmorphosis is in 63 feet of water, and I expect it to be a productive site for both anglers and divers.”

The project was funded through the sale of Georgia recreational fishing licenses and the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act, a national program that reinvests excise taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel into fisheries conservation, public access, and habitat enhancement projects. CCA Georgia contributed $10,000 toward the reef addition, along with logistical support in obtaining the vessel.

Artificial Reef MRY is one of more than 30 permitted offshore artificial reef sites managed by CRD along Georgia’s coast. These reefs are carefully planned, deployed, and monitored to support healthy marine ecosystems while enhancing recreational fishing and diving opportunities. Coordinates and additional details about Georgia’s offshore artificial reefs are available at CoastalGaDNR.org/OffshoreReefs.

The coordinates for the Metalmorphosis deployment are 30.77270° N, 81.10188° W (30° 46.362’ N, 81° 6.113’ W).