Can TPWD prohibit persons, like commercial fishermen or others, from using the reef?
TPWD has no legal basis at this time to prohibit certain groups from fishing or diving at the reef sites. In managing potential user conflict, TPWD works with the commercial fishing industry in minimizing impacts when creating reef sites. Commercial shrimping activities would typically stay clear of these areas so that gear is not lost. Other commercial activities would be subject to TPWD fishing rules. Diving activities may be minimal due to the clarity of water nearshore but could be present. Fishermen who do not participate in the reefing are not prohibited from using the reef site. Question: If I place materials at the reef site, don’t they still belong to me? Answer: Any materials placed by the public at a reef site become the property of TPWD and will be managed as such. The advantage of this system is that TPWD holds the reef permits and is therefore responsible for any liability that these structures may cause.
