OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — Okaloosa County and the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau are partnering to deploy a 224-foot vessel as the newest addition to the Gulf of America’s artificial reef system, with deployment planned for fall 2026.
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The Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners approved the agreement during its June 16 meeting. Under the partnership, the former Henry Alex vessel will be prepared and deployed as the “Sposit” Reef, expanding a regional network of large-vessel artificial reefs.
The project follows an earlier partnership between Okaloosa County’s tourism department, Destin-Fort Walton Beach, and the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau that resulted in the deployment of the 239-foot Deep Stim III in 2023.
“The marine life that benefits from these artificial reefs does not see borders,” said Trey Goodwin, chairman of the Okaloosa County Board of County Commissioners.
“We are pleased to be working again with our neighbors in Panama City Beach on this effort as a showing of how the power of partnerships can create something worthy for our residents, visitors, and the environment.”
The $450,000 cost to purchase, prepare, and transport the vessel will be split equally between Okaloosa County and the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau, with each contributing $225,000.
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“This project is another example of how strong partnerships can create lasting benefits for our Gulf,” said Erin Graham, Coastal Resources Manager for the Panama City Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau.
“By working alongside Okaloosa County and CCA Florida, we are expanding critical habitat for marine life while creating new opportunities for anglers and divers to experience the incredible resources our waters have to offer.”
The Coastal Conservation Association Florida will contribute an additional $60,000 to cover towing and deployment costs. According to the county, CCA Florida has previously partnered on artificial reef deployments, invasive lionfish removal, habitat restoration, redfish release initiatives, and the ongoing SS United States artificial reef project.
The reef is named in memory of the late Rebecca Sposit, former Human Resources Director for the national Coastal Conservation Association office.
“Rebecca Sposit did so much for marine conservation through her role at CCA, in ways the public could never see,” said Pat Murray. “She was a beloved part of CCA, and this reef is a lasting testament to her impact on the organization and the marine environment.”
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“Rebecca was a valued colleague and dear friend to many throughout the CCA family, and she is missed dearly,” added Brian Gorski.
“The Sposit Reef deployment serves as a lasting tribute to Rebecca’s life and legacy while reflecting our ongoing commitment to the conservation and enhancement of Florida’s marine resources and coastal ecosystems.”
Mr Gorski said he is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the project’s partners on initiatives that strengthen marine biodiversity, expand critical habitat for fish and other marine species, and support economically important local industries, including recreational fishing and diving.
The proposed deployment site is approximately 22 nautical miles from Destin East Pass and 28 nautical miles from Panama City Pass in about 120 feet of water. Deployment is expected in fall 2026.
According to Okaloosa County, the county has deployed 48 large vessels since the 1970s as part of nearly 600 artificial reefs in the Gulf.
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