ADOPT-A-WRECK PROGRAM


March 16, 1998

For more information contact:
Bill Figley at 609-748-2020

In an effort to provide more structured habitat for ocean fish, the Department of Environmental Protection’s, Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife is offering an "Adopt-A-Wreck" program to sponsor the sinking of ships, barges and army tanks off the New Jersey coast.

Who would want to adopt a shipwreck, one might ask? Well, despite its lack of appeal to many, anglers and divers know better. They understand the value of a shipwreck as marine fish and shellfish habitat and what they want is more wrecks along the New Jersey coast.

"This is an excellent way to gain recognition among the anglers and divers who will use the wreck during the next 100 years, or provide a lasting memorial for anyone who has ever loved New Jersey’s marine environment," said Division Director Bob McDowell. "It also provides much-needed habitat for marine fish and shellfish on the sea floor."

Individuals, fishing and diving clubs, tackle shops and environmentally-concerned companies are all welcome to adopt a wreck. Adopters can dedicate and name their new reefs. Each name is permanent and will be noted in news releases and Division charts and publications. In addition to naming the reef, adopters will receive a high quality, framed picture of their wreck and a brass dedication plaque.

Adopt-A-Wreck funds are used for the costly preparation of ships, barges and tanks for sinking on New Jersey’s reefs. Each structure must be cleaned of debris and oil, watertight bulkheads must be cut, and each vessel must be towed to an ocean reef site and sunk. All of these tasks are extremely expensive and the Adopt-A-Wreck donation only covers a portion of the costs.

If your club or business is interested in adopting a wreck, call or write for a list of available vessels and adoption details.

Adopt-A-Wreck
NJ Division of Fish, Game and Wildlife
P.O. Box 418
Port Republic, NJ 08241
609-748-2020

1997 REEF ADOPTIONS

"ROTHENBACH REEF I"

A 165’ tanker barge sponsored by Barbara and Ron Rothenbach was sunk on the Cape May Reef on June 11. "This vessel is dedicated to the memory of Harry and Elsie Rothenbach -- loving parents and ardent anglers whose love of fishing was never as great as their love for their son and daughter."

"BHMTC TANK III" and "BHMTC TANK IV"

Two M-48 tanks sponsored by the Beach Haven Marlin and Tuna Club were sunk on the Little Egg Reef on July 28, 1997.

"LTC JOSEPH P. CALLAHAN, SR."

An M-60 tank sponsored by the Callahan family was sunk on the Barnegat Light Reef on August 1. "In honor of a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather and great-grandfather and for the love and support you have already given to us."

"ATLANTIC COUNTY FEDERATION OF SPORTSMEN’S CLUBS REEF"

A group of five tanks sponsored by the Atlantic County Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs was sunk on the Great Egg Reef on July 30,1997.

"BUD EVANS REEF"

A group of three tanks sponsored by the Ocean City Marlin and Tuna Club was sunk on the Great Egg Reef on July 30,1997.

"FRED ECKARDT REEF"

A group of three tanks sponsored by the Ocean City Marlin and Tuna Club was sunk on the Great Egg Reef on July 30,1997.

"GOLDEN EAGLE"

An 80’ commercial trawler sponsored by the friends and family of Eagle Pharo was sunk on December 19 on the Sea Girt Reef. "A tribute to Captain Eagle Pharo; he could always find the fish."

"CAPTAIN ED SCHMIDIGER"

A 165’ navy tanker barge sponsored by Marie Schmidiger and Paul Donohoe was sunk on October 8 on the Axel Carlson Reef. "In memory of Captain Ed Schmidiger, beloved husband, father and good friend. An avid ocean sportsman, Ed chartered the ‘Y-Knot’ out of Manasquan River for many years and will be truly missed."

"OCEAN WRECK DIVERS III"

A 165’ tanker barge sponsored by the Ocean Wreck Divers was sunk on October 8 on the Axel Carlson Reef.

"THE FISHERMAN"

A 242’ tanker barge sponsored by The Fisherman Magazine was sunk on the Sea Girt Reef on August 7, 1997.

"COLONEL SAMUEL R. PROBASCO III"

An M-551 tank sponsored by the family was sunk on the Barnegat Light Reef on August 1. "Donated with love, admiration and respect."


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