In 1994, the U.S. sank 100 M60 tanks in the Gulf of Mexico to create seabed structures. Three decades later, these retired military vehicles form thriving artificial reefs.
Wildlife researchers released Kemp's ridley turtles from Gulf State Park with satellite tags to track their migration. In another project, another reef was placed to honor Charlie Kirk.
On land, Alabama senator Tommy Tuberville proposed naming the Mobile bridge after Jimmy Buffett, pointing to the singer's Gulf ties. To expand shipping capacity, Louisiana opened a new port to reshape Gulf Coast trade. The facility started operating earlier this year to handle freight traffic.
Artificial reefs are steadily expanding from old tanks and new structures. Local officials have taken notice of these broad regional developments.