Multi-County Effort to Enhance Gulf's Artificial Reef System with New Vessel
Okaloosa County and the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau have partnered to deploy the 224-foot Henry Alex vessel as part of the Gulf's artificial reef system. This initiative, named the Sposit Reef, aims to enhance marine biodiversity and support local industries such as recreational fishing and diving. The project, costing $450,000, is equally funded by both organizations, with additional support from the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Florida. The reef is named in memory of Rebecca Sposit, a former CCA director, and is expected to be deployed in fall 2026.