What is Rigs-to-Reefs and how does it relate to the mission of the Minerals Management Service (MMS)?

Rigs-to-Reefs is a term used for converting obsolete, nonproductive offshore oil and gas structures to designated artificial reefs. From research and assessment of the environmental effects of oil and gas leasing and development, the MMS has documented a profound and pervasive connection between fish, fishing, and oil and gas structures in the marine environment. Hence, installation and removal of petroleum structures affects offshore fishing and has aroused much interest and concern over the years among fishermen, scuba divers, and coastal communities. The MMS has worked with these interest groups, coastal states, and the offshore industry to respond to those concerns. This effort has led to reef construction opportunities presented by the decommissioning process for offshore platforms. Under Title II of the National Fishing Enhancement Act of 1984 (P.L. 98-623), the National Marine Fisheries Service developed and published a National Artificial Reef Plan (NOAA Technical Memoranum NMFS OF-6, November, 1985, as amended). This law and associated planning requirements set the stage for Federal endorsement of offshore artificial reef projects.

In support of the National Artificial Reef Plan, and in response to our affected stakeholders, the MMS adopted a national Rigs-to-Reefs policy that supports and encourages the reuse of oil and gas structures for offshore artificial reef developments. Hence, coastal states with approved, State specific, artificial reef plans can identify offshore areas and sites suitable for artificial reef developments. Therefore, oil and gas operators may cooperate with Gulf Coast States to recycle obsolete structures as permitted artificial reefs as an alternative to onshore disposal. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department have currently approved State artificial reef plans and administer ongoing offshore rigs-to-reefs programs. The artificial reef coordinators from these States are prepared to assess the interest of their State in acquiring oil or gas structures offered for reef development, work with the structure operator or their agent in securing the required U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit, negotiate an agreement for a structure donation, and accept title and responsibility for the structure as a permanent State reef. Interested parties can contact the MMS, a participating state, or other links identified below for additional information.