South of Cocodrie, at Bodwin Point, a new artificial reef now stands as a tribute to a young man whose passion for restoration and conservation left a lasting impact. CCA Louisiana and its conservation partners have deployed Duncan’s Reef in honor of Duncan Prentice, a valued member of the Danos team, whose life and promising career were tragically cut short in December 2023.
Duncan’s Reef, the largest project to date under CCA’s REEF Louisiana program, consists of 850 Cajun Coral structures. Made possible through a $100,000 community grant from Woodside Energy, the reef was constructed in collaboration with Danos, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), Natrx, Inc., Delta Coast Consultants, and White Water Contractors.
“At Woodside, we recognize the importance of supporting the communities where we live and work, and we strive to invest in opportunities that matter most to local residents,” said Paa-Joe Akoto-Ampaw, vice president of Woodside. “We are proud to contribute to Louisiana’s coastal conservation efforts through Duncan’s Reef, which will help protect the state’s marine environment and enhance its recreational fishing industry.”
A Living Memorial
“This reef is more than just a habitat—it’s a living tribute to Duncan’s passion and dedication,” said Rad Trascher, executive vice president of CCA Louisiana. “Like all of us at CCA, Duncan cared deeply about preserving our Sportsman’s Paradise. Now, every angler and conservationist who visits Duncan’s Reef will be reminded of his commitment to Louisiana’s coastline.”
An avid angler and outdoorsman, Prentice played a crucial role in developing Cajun Coral, an innovative 3D-printed artificial reef module designed by Danos and Natrx. These structures provide essential habitats for marine life, enhancing biodiversity and strengthening Louisiana’s fishing grounds. His contributions to this technology reflected his deep belief in solutions that work in harmony with nature, fostering long-term resilience for Louisiana’s delicate coastal environment. Through Duncan’s Reef, his legacy will continue to shape fisheries restoration for generations to come.
“Duncan’s passion, talent, and dedication left a lasting impact on all of us at Danos,” said Eric Danos, owner/executive of Danos and CEO of Danos Ventures. “He truly fell in love with his job and the challenge of protecting Louisiana’s coast. Now, through his work and the support of many great partners, we can celebrate his legacy for years to come.”
Community Support and Future Impact
Funding for Duncan’s Reef was provided by CCA’s REEF Louisiana Program, with additional matching funds from LDWF’s Artificial Reef Trust Fund. LDWF officials attended the dedication ceremony and site visit.
“While every artificial reef plays a critical role in our mission, Duncan’s Reef holds special significance,” said LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan. “We are honored to work with CCA Louisiana, Woodside, Danos, and our partners to restore fish habitat and ensure a thriving future for Louisiana’s fisheries. Most importantly, we are proud to commemorate the life of a fellow sportsman, Duncan Prentice.”
Additional support, including in-kind labor, materials, and donations, was provided by Natrx, Inc., Delta Coast Consultants, and White Water Contractors. Representatives from each organization attended the dedication event.
“Delta Coast was founded on a passion for protecting Louisiana’s coastline,” said Mitch Marmande, owner of Delta Coast Consultants. “We are proud to partner in this effort, helping to enhance recreational fishing opportunities and sustain our coastal waters. Naming this reef after Duncan Prentice, a remarkable and hardworking young man, is truly an honor. It is heartwarming to know his legacy will live on through the work he so passionately pursued.”
More Information
Coordinates for Duncan’s Reef will be published on ccalouisiana.com once the construction survey is complete. For more information about the reef or CCA Louisiana’s REEF Louisiana Program, contact Rad Trascher at (225) 952-9200.