Friends of Sabine Reefs Advances HI-54 Shallow Reef Development
Friends of Sabine Reefs (FSR), in partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), CCA Texas, and the Building Conservation Trust (BCT)—the national habitat program of CCA—has successfully completed the next phase of reef deployments at the HI-54 Shallow site. Located approximately 1.9 miles off Sea Rim State Park and 9 miles from the Sabine Pass jetties, this artificial reef project continues to enhance the region’s marine habitat and angling opportunities.
The local business community once again played a pivotal role in the success of this initiative. Port Arthur LNG (PALNG) generously donated 8,000 tons of rip rap, as well as covering transportation costs to deliver the materials to the Port City docks in Sabine Pass. Contributions from PALNG, Cheniere, Golden Pass LNG, Phillips 66, Motiva, and Valero made the deployment possible. Additionally, CCA Texas contributed $223,000 to ensure all 8,000 tons of material were successfully placed at the HI-54 Shallow site. This marks the second deployment at the site, following the initial phase in June 2024.
“Since the founding of Friends of Sabine Reefs in 2018—modeled after Friends of the Rio Grande Valley Reef—we have successfully developed two artificial reefs: HI-20 and HI-54 Shallow,” said Mic Cowart, a representative of Friends of Sabine Reefs. “Our first project, HI-20, was a learning experience with its share of challenges. However, with the combined expertise, resources, and passion of groups like CCA Texas, TPWD’s Artificial Reef Program, Laredo Construction, and others, we have formed a highly effective team. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for unlimited possibilities in artificial reef development across the Gulf of Mexico.”
CCA Texas remains committed to supporting FSR’s reefing initiatives, which are already creating significant benefits for anglers and the local community. The HI-54 Shallow site provides an easily accessible fishing destination for Golden Triangle anglers, whether by boat or, when conditions allow, by kayak from the beachfront of Sea Rim State Park. The site is expected to attract and support a variety of sought-after species, including redfish, spotted sea trout, cobia, and more.
To date, Friends of Sabine Reefs has secured $710,000 in contributions from local industry partners, while CCA Texas has provided $754,000. Generous in-kind support from Port City, BOMAC, Eldridge Construction, and Laredo Group has further propelled the Sabine Reef Initiative forward. These collective efforts are helping to restore critical marine ecosystems while creating lasting opportunities for recreational anglers.