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A reefball is a designed, artificial reef used to restore ailing reefs, and to create new fishing and scuba diving sites. Reefballs are made of a special, marine-friendly concrete and are designed to mimic natural reef systems. They are used around the world to create habitats for fish and other marine species. Reef balls are made by pouring concrete into a fiberglass mold containing a central Polyform bouy surrounded by various sized inflatable balls to make holes. Six mold sizes are avaliable, oyster ball, lo-pro ball, bay ball, pallet ball, reef ball, and ultra ball. Reef balls unique disign and surface texture allows artificial reefs to funtion better by mimicing natural reefs. |
| Natural reef systems are essential to the ecosystems of our waters. A combination of natural and man made disasters has begun to break down the natural reef system. Reefs provide homes for many varieties of plants and animals in the ocean. The increase in large vessels, such as ocean liners and oil tankers, and the increase in both sportfishing and commercial fishing have begun to wreak havoc on these systems. The natural reefs cannot rebuild themselves fast enough to keep up with human demands. Restoring ailing reefs helps create stronger, long lasting reef systems, which in turn helps keep our waters helthy and vibrant. Reefballs can also be used as submerged breakwater which helps prevent sand erosion. One variety of reefball, the oyster ball, may be useful in rebuilding the oyster colonies. The number of oysters in areas such as the Chesapeake Bay have dropped alarmingly. This is devastating to the commercial industries, but more importantly healthy oyster beds help keep the waters of the bays clean and clear. |  |
Building artifical reefs may seem overwhelming to the average
person, but anyone can purchase a reefball. Enviromental groups, schools,
corporations,
government and community organizations, and even individuals can purchase a
single reefball or contact us about a reefball contract. If you would like
to find out if reefballs can help in your community, or just think a reefball
would make a unique pond statue, give us a call and help us save the natural
reefs.
The Virginia Marine Science Museum is in the process of creating a permanent reefball exhibit. We believe it is important to educate people of all ages about the importance of protecting and rebuilding our natural reef systems. In the near future we hope to start presenting seminars to the public as well as private groups.
P.O. Box 14470
Norfolk, VA 23518
Phone:
(757) 480-1980
Fax: (757) 480-9671
seasearch@reefball.com