Turn Abandoned Ships Into Reefs and Revive Our Dying Oceans
663 signatures toward our 30,000 Goal
Sponsor: The Rainforest Site
Our oceans are in crisis, and iconic ships like the SS United States can be the solution—act now to transform these vessels into thriving artificial reefs that will restore marine life and save our ecosystems.
The SS United States, once a symbol of American ingenuity and maritime power, is facing its final and most important mission yet: becoming the world’s largest artificial reef. This initiative, led by Okaloosa County, will sink the storied ocean liner into the Gulf of Mexico, turning it into a thriving habitat for marine life1. As our oceans face unprecedented damage from climate change, pollution, and overfishing, projects like this are vital to restoring our underwater ecosystems. But we need your help to make it happen.
Why Artificial Reefs Matter
Coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, are essential to marine life. They support nearly 25% of all marine species, offering shelter, breeding grounds, and food sources for countless creatures2. Yet, human activities have devastated these natural structures. Coral bleaching from rising ocean temperatures, destructive fishing practices, and coastal development have left many reefs in peril.
Artificial reefs offer a critical solution. These man-made structures—whether concrete blocks, sunken ships, or other recycled materials—create new homes for marine life to thrive3. Studies show that artificial reefs promote biodiversity, enhance fisheries, and even protect coastlines by reducing wave energy4. When properly designed and managed, these reefs not only restore damaged ecosystems but also create new opportunities for eco-tourism, diving, and fishing.
The SS United States: A New Hope for Marine Life
The SS United States is more than just a ship. It’s a vessel with a history of carrying immigrants, celebrities, and world leaders across the Atlantic. Now, its final voyage could save the oceans it once crossed. Okaloosa County’s plan to sink the SS United States will create a massive underwater structure that provides shelter for fish, coral, and other marine species. It will join Florida’s extensive network of over 500 artificial reefs, bringing economic benefits to local communities through tourism and fishing2.
This transformation will take time and significant resources. The process of cleaning, transporting, and safely sinking the ship will take at least 18 months1. But once complete, it will be a critical lifeline for marine ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico, helping them recover from decades of human impact.
Why We Need to Act Now
If successful, this project can set a national precedent. Artificial reefs aren’t just local projects—they’re part of a global solution to ocean degradation. More ships, decommissioned military equipment, and other materials can be repurposed to restore marine habitats across the United States. But we must act quickly. The SS United States is a unique opportunity to lead the charge for ocean conservation and sustainable fisheries.
By supporting this initiative, you aren’t just helping one ship find a new purpose—you’re helping secure a healthier future for our oceans and the communities that depend on them.
Take Action
We need your voice to make this vision a reality. Join us in supporting Okaloosa County’s efforts to transform the SS United States into a vibrant artificial reef and promote similar projects nationwide.
Sign the petition to show your support for turning old ships into lifelines for marine life. Together, we can ensure a better, more sustainable future for our oceans.
- Kate Payne, ABC News (1 October 2025), "Historic ship could soon become the world's largest artificial reef."
- MarineBio (2024), "Artificial Reefs."
- U.S. News (1 October 2024), "Historic Ship Could Soon Become the World's Largest Artificial Reef."
- Craig Nigrelli, Straight Arrow News (2 October 2024), "Iconic SS United States to Become World’s Largest Artificial Reef."
The Petition:
Dear Members of the Okaloosa County Commission,
We, the undersigned, fully support your groundbreaking initiative to transform the historic SS United States into the world’s largest artificial reef. This bold action not only preserves an iconic piece of American maritime history but also provides essential ecological benefits by enhancing marine life habitats in the Gulf of Mexico.
Our oceans are in crisis. Overfishing, pollution, and climate change have severely damaged natural coral reefs—one of the most vital ecosystems on Earth. Artificial reefs offer a powerful solution. By repurposing decommissioned ships, like the SS United States, we can create new habitats for marine species, promote biodiversity, and restore damaged ecosystems. Artificial reefs have proven to be instrumental in supporting fisheries, protecting coastlines from erosion, and boosting local economies through eco-tourism and diving industries. The success of your plan will set a model for similar projects across the United States.
We encourage the Commission to continue leading the way by promoting efforts to transform additional old ships into artificial reefs nationwide. These initiatives will not only revive our struggling marine ecosystems but also create lasting economic opportunities and safeguard our coastal communities.
The future of our oceans—and by extension, our own future—depends on actions like these. By supporting artificial reef development, you are ensuring a legacy of healthier oceans, stronger coastal economies, and a sustainable environment for generations to come.
Together, we can create a better, more resilient future for all.
Sincerely,
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