Is QAR considered an artificial reef? Is disturbing it damaging to the habitat?
On March 3, 1997, a 300-yard area surrounding the shipwreck was declared ” a protected are of primary archaeological and historical value”, by Secretary Betty Ray McCain of the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources. While this does not include protection for the biological community, archaeologists are aware of the abundant wildlife associated with this “historic” artificial reef and keep disturbance to a minimum. Prior to conducting test excavations a Coastal Area Management permit was applied for and received. This process allowed various agencies concerned with fisheries, water quality, erosion and other issues to review and comment on project impacts.
Related Questions
- One quick question. What would be the best method for adding substrate to an established reef aquarium without disturbing the rockwork and burying anything?
- Is QAR considered an artificial reef? Is disturbing it damaging to the habitat?
- What destructive fishing methods are damaging the reef ecosystem?
