Saltwater-fisheries Enhancement Association (SEA) is a non-profit (501)(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting the conservation and preservation of our saltwater resources for the benefit of recreational users. SEA was formed in late 2000 as a grassroots organization focusing on raising money locally to address issues and support projects benefiting the inshore and offshore saltwater resources of the Coastal Bend of Texas.
|
The following statement was adopted by the SEA Board of Directors in November, 2010 in support of Rigs to Reef.
POLICY STATEMENT SUPPORTING
PROTECTION OF MARINE HABITAT THROUGH THE
RIGS TO REEFS PROGRAM
The Saltwater-fisheries Enhancement Association (SEA) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization committed to the preservation and enrichment of the marine habitat of the Texas Coastal Fishery for the benefit of current and future generations of recreational users.
The development of oil and gas operations in the Gulf of Mexico has resulted in the construction of numerous offshore production structures, with each becoming an integral part of the marine environment supporting an abundance of marine life. SEA encourages the continued viability of this marine habitat through the Rigs to Reefs program administered by the U.S. Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, Regulation and Enforcement and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Specifically, SEA supports the conversion of production platforms into permitted artificial reefs with a preference of reefing in place, thus minimizing the destruction of exiting marine habitat and marine life associated with each platform. As an alternative, SEA supports the relocation of structures to enhance existing approved reefing sites.
SEA strongly encourages improved communications between Texas Parks and Wildlife, and oil and gas interest operating within Texas jurisdiction, with the objective of maximizing reefing opportunities utilizing decommissioned platforms or jackets.