Navy Reefing Program

The objective of the Navy's Ship Disposal Program is to reduce the size of the inactive ship inventory in a cost-effective and environmentally sound manner.

The Navy has a multi-faceted ship disposal program, including: Foreign Military Sales transfers, Deep-water sink exercise targets for Navy Fleet training, donation for public display as museum or memorials, ship dismantling, and ARTIFICIAL REEFING.

Why the Navy Supports Artificial Reefing

Use of Navy ships is consistent with the history of success of using steel hulled vessels in State managed programs to build artificial reefs that benefit marine life, commercial and sport fishing, and recreational diving.
Reduction of the inactive ship inventory allows additional resources to be applied to recapitalize and maintain active Navy forces.
Allows Navy and recipient to share cost of ship transfer and preparations for artificial reefing.

Why States Support Artificial Reefing for Navy Ships

Complements existing state-sponsored artificial reef programs

Generates substantial income for local economies through unique diving opportunities and sport fishing

Updated: 20-Aug-2004