Artificial reef program to preserve fish habitat off Florida Keys

A new artificial reef program led by Monroe County that aims to preserve fish populations and resources in the Florida Keys' marine ecosystem is now underway , according to WLRN.

Why it matters: Though artificial reefs aren't new in Florida — the oldest dating back to 1945 — this is the first official county-led program focused on man-made marine habitat, the outlet reported.

• The program's launch about 16 miles north of Key West in federal waters comes after last summer's massive coral bleaching event .

The big picture: The project aims to serve as a "proof of method" that could lay the groundwork for future artificial reef projects, which have faced concerns including material failures and over-harvesting, per the outlet.

• The first phase likely includes 37 concrete poles, each about 55 feet long.

By the numbers: A $10 million Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission grant is supporting the project.

• Another $5 million was recently added, pending Gov. Ron DeSantis' approval.

What's next: The project is expected to run through 2028, but additional funding could extend it through 2029.