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"Shipwrecks of New Jersey's Reefs" Book Available


April 25, 2003

The Division of Fish and Wildlife, in cooperation with The Fisherman Magazine and the Artificial Reef Association (ARA), has recently published a new book entitled "The Shipwrecks of New Jersey's Reefs."

This 160-page reference book provides photos and information on 108 ships and barges that were intentionally sunk over the past 30 years on New Jersey's 14 reef sites to provide habitat for marine fish and shellfish, fishing grounds for anglers and underwater attractions for scuba divers. Information provided for each vessel includes date and place of construction, a brief history of its service, the date, method and location of sinking in LORAN and GPS coordinates, vessel donors and sponsors and underwater characteristics. In addition, there are chapters on how vessels are prepared for use as reefs, reasons for building reefs, how vessels are sunk, side scan sonar, how the shipwreck program is funded and how the public can sponsor and name a shipwreck. This book is a useful tool for both saltwater angers and divers who use New Jersey reefs.

Copies of the book can be purchased at most tackle and dive shops throughout the state. They can also be ordered through the mail by sending a check or money order for $15 ($12.95 plus $2.05 shipping). Make check or money order payable to the ARA at:

Artificial Reef Association
P.O. Box 16
Oceanville, New Jersey 08231
Proceeds from the sale of the book help fund future reef-building efforts.
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