In April, conservation and community came together on the shores of Lake Pontchartrain to mark a major milestone for Louisiana’s coastal habitat. CCA Louisiana, in partnership with Chevron, St. Tammany Parish, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), and Pontchartrain Materials Corporation, proudly announced the completion of a new artificial reef—Goose Point Reef, located just off the coast of St. Tammany Parish in Mandeville.
The installation of Goose Point Reef is more than just another conservation project—it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when industry, government, and local organizations unite behind a shared mission: to restore marine ecosystems, enhance fishing opportunities, and preserve the rich outdoor traditions of Louisiana’s coastal communities.
Building a Habitat from Concrete and Vision
At the heart of the Goose Point Reef project is a brilliant repurposing of infrastructure waste. Approximately 4,000 tons of recycled concrete from the Interstate 12 widening project were donated and repurposed to build the reef. These materials are now resting beneath the surface of Lake Pontchartrain, forming a structured underwater habitat where oysters, crabs, baitfish, and prized gamefish like speckled trout and redfish will soon thrive.
Rather than ending up in a landfill, this concrete is now serving a second life—one that will fuel biodiversity and sustain recreational fishing for years to come.
“This is where we live, work, and raise our families,” said Alex Cheramie, Chevron Corporate Affairs Representative. “Supporting the protection and preservation of Lake Pontchartrain’s coast through this new artificial reef is key to creating a thriving marine habitat and fishing destination for all to enjoy.”
Chevron, a long-standing supporter of conservation efforts in the state, contributed $100,000 toward the Goose Point Reef installation. Their commitment, paired with in-kind support from St. Tammany Parish Government—including materials, trucking, and permitting—formed the foundation for a successful launch.
Additional funding was secured through the Louisiana Artificial Reef Trust Fund, managed by LDWF, which further expanded the scope of the project. Pontchartrain Materials Corporation played a pivotal role in managing logistics, providing both the equipment and expertise to carefully transport and place the recycled materials with precision and care.
A Strategic Location with Big Benefits
Goose Point Reef now stands as the seventh artificial reef in Lake Pontchartrain and the 58th coastal reef project spearheaded by CCA Louisiana. What sets this reef apart is its accessibility. Located close to shore, it offers an easily reachable fishing destination for recreational anglers, families, and boating enthusiasts in the region.
“Each reef we build matters, but Goose Point stands out because of how accessible it is for everyday anglers,” said Ryan Montegut, LDWF Assistant Secretary of Fisheries. “This kind of inshore reef provides an immediate opportunity for people to enjoy the resource while also supporting marine life and water quality.”
Lake Pontchartrain, one of Louisiana’s most iconic water bodies, has long been a hub for both ecological diversity and outdoor recreation. Adding a reef at Goose Point enhances the lake’s potential as a thriving fishery and reinforces its role as a recreational haven for residents and visitors alike.
Conservation Through Collaboration
What makes the Goose Point Reef truly remarkable isn’t just the concrete or the location—it’s the collaboration. This project serves as a shining example of how conservation organizations, local governments, state agencies, and private industry can come together to achieve shared environmental goals.
“Projects like this wouldn’t be possible without the support of our energy partner, Chevron,” said St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper. “It’s this kind of public-private cooperation that’s helping restore our coast and build stronger, more resilient communities.”
From permitting and logistics to funding and manpower, the Goose Point Reef installation reflects a team effort at every level. It also underscores CCA Louisiana’s growing role as a catalyst for coastal restoration across the state.
“Recreational fishing is deeply rooted in Louisiana’s culture,” said Charlie Caplinger, Chairman of CCA Louisiana. “Through strong partnerships with industry, government, and conservation leaders, we’re creating long-term benefits for our coast, fisheries, and future generations.”
A Legacy of Restoration
Louisiana is no stranger to environmental challenges. Decades of coastal erosion, habitat degradation, and heavy commercial use have put pressure on marine ecosystems statewide. In response, groups like CCA Louisiana have taken a proactive role in building solutions that not only restore habitat but also enhance public access to fishing and outdoor recreation.
Artificial reefs have become a central strategy in these efforts. Designed to mimic natural reef structures, they provide shelter, breeding grounds, and feeding opportunities for a wide variety of marine species. In addition to improving biodiversity, artificial reefs also attract fish to areas where anglers can responsibly enjoy the bounty of Louisiana’s waters.
To date, CCA Louisiana’s artificial reef program has installed reefs in lakes, bays, estuaries, and offshore waters across the state, transforming underwater landscapes and supporting fisheries at every level. The organization continues to lead the charge in habitat restoration, partnering with scientists, engineers, policymakers, and community members to design projects that deliver lasting impact.
What’s Next for Goose Point?
As Goose Point Reef settles beneath the water and begins to attract marine life, the benefits will become increasingly visible. Anglers will start seeing more consistent bites. Juvenile fish will find shelter in the crevices of the concrete. Oysters will begin to colonize the hard surfaces. Crabs, shrimp, and other invertebrates will establish themselves, forming the base of a healthier, more dynamic food web.
Beyond the biology, Goose Point Reef is also expected to bring economic benefits to the surrounding region. Recreational fishing is a $1.1 billion industry in Louisiana, supporting thousands of jobs and small businesses. Well-designed reefs like this one help sustain those livelihoods by keeping anglers engaged and fish populations robust.
CCA Louisiana and its partners plan to monitor the site and may conduct scientific assessments over time to track the reef’s ecological development and effectiveness.
A Reef for the People
At its core, Goose Point Reef is a project for the people. It’s a celebration of local heritage, a commitment to environmental stewardship, and a bold investment in Louisiana’s natural future.
As more boats return to Lake Pontchartrain this summer, more lines are cast, and more memories are made, Goose Point Reef will quietly do its job beneath the surface—strengthening habitat, supporting fisheries, and proving once again that with the right partners, conservation in Louisiana isn’t just possible—it’s thriving.