Diving atSfma-Public Reef #5 (United States)
SFMA-Public Reef #5 functions as a vital component of Florida's extensive artificial reef initiative, found off Taylor County in the Big Bend region. This specific reef, part of the Steinhatchee Fisheries Management Area, plays a significant role in marine conservation efforts. It establishes essential habitats, bolstering both recreational diving and fishing opportunities within an otherwise undeveloped coastal zone. Divers encounter a structured environment designed to foster marine biodiversity.
During this afternoon at Sfma-Public Reef #5, the recorded air temperature stands at 22.2°C. The water surface currently features wave heights of 0.36m. These conditions reflect the midday climate for this dive site.
Dive Site Coordinates
29.6551, -83.7460
Dive Site Overview
SFMA-Public Reef #5 provides a tangible experience of marine habitat enhancement through intentional design. Recreational divers explore a diverse range of submerged materials, including deployed fish cubes, tetrahedral structures, scrap metal, and concrete culverts.
These elements have accumulated over years, with significant additions like 2,550 ft² of sea floor covered by artificial reefs in 2016 alone. Taylor County's long-standing artificial reef program initiated first deployments in 1965. Average depths for artificial reefs in this program typically fall around 10.7 m (35.15 ft), though a maximum depth recorded can reach 15.5 m (51 ft).
Divers should note the variable depth profile across different sections. Located between 17.5 and 20.5 nautical miles from the shoreline, accessing the site requires proper boat planning.
Support from the FWC and various local bodies has fueled a sustained investment in marine ecosystems, totaling over $579,212 since 1990 for material deployment and monitoring, creating a dynamic environment for underwater exploration.
Best Time to Dive
For a comfortable dive experience at SFMA-Public Reef #5, considering regional climate patterns is essential. Conditions are generally favorable from February through July and again in October, November, and December, consistently showing 'Good' dive scores. Air temperatures during these periods range from cooler averages of 13.9°C (57.1°F) in February to warmer peaks around 28.7°C (83.7°F) in July and August. Rainfall tends to be lower in late spring and fall, with May averaging 1.8 mm (0.07 inches) and October at 1.5 mm (0.06 inches), which may contribute to better visibility. September, while still warm at 26.8°C (80.3°F) air temp, shows a 'Moderate' dive score, potentially due to higher average rainfall of 5.1 mm (0.20 inches) and increased wind speeds, impacting surface conditions. Planning dives during drier, calmer months will likely enhance the overall underwater experience.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Approaching SFMA-Public Reef #5, divers can expect a structured underwater landscape built from various deployed materials. Navigating around specific modules and culverts is part of the experience, as these create intricate swim-throughs and sheltered areas for marine life. While specific water temperature data isn't consistently reported, regional averages suggest conditions generally align with surrounding Gulf waters, which vary depending on the season. Expect depths from very shallow sections to the recreational depth limit of around 15.5 m (51 ft). Currents here vary based on local weather and tidal influences; maintaining situational awareness is key. Observing how marine organisms adapt to and colonize human-made structures is a core part of the sensory experience here.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Diving at SFMA-Public Reef #5 necessitates adherence to established safety protocols and local regulations. While skin divers and snorkelers are encouraged to carry a dive flag for visibility, SCUBA divers are legally required to fly a dive flag whenever they are submerged. This flag alerts nearby vessels to your presence, as all boats must maintain a 30-meter (100-foot) perimeter from a dive flag. It's important to recognize that markers for the reef structures are typically located on the beach, not in the water, to prevent collision risks for boaters. Responsible use of the resource is paramount; all users, including anglers, spear fishers, and divers, must follow the Code of Alabama's laws. For example, gillnets are prohibited within 91 meters (300 feet) of any marked artificial reef. Always plan your dive thoroughly, considering the site's offshore location and potential conditions.
Recommended Equipment
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Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Divers who spend more time observing marine life often prefer slightly warmer gear.
Divers exploring Sfma-Public Reef #5 today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 23°C (73°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 22°C (72°F). Water temperatures in this range are often well suited to diving with 3-5mm wetsuit. Surface intervals may feel cooler.
Forecast models indicate that diving conditions should remain largely unchanged.
Conditions last reviewed: 12:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Marine Life at Sfma-Public Reef #5
When exploring SFMA-Public Reef #5, one immediately notices vibrant colonization of the artificial structures by various reef fish species. Deployed materials, including fish cubes and concrete culverts, are specifically designed to enhance marine life by providing new reef habitat. Expect to see diverse fish taking advantage of nooks and crannies for shelter and foraging. Both juvenile fish recruitment and the establishment of more mature fish communities are supported here. Observing these communities offers insight into the ecological success of artificial reef projects in promoting biodiversity where natural hard bottom might be limited.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are dive flags required for SCUBA diving at SFMA-Public Reef #5?
Yes, SCUBA divers are legally required to fly a dive flag when they are underwater at SFMA-Public Reef #5. Skin diving or snorkeling, while not legally requiring a flag, still encourages their use for safety.
Why are reef markers not placed directly in the water at the reef site?
Markers for reef structures are typically placed on the beach rather than in the water to prevent safety concerns. Buoys or pilings in the water could pose a collision risk for boaters, especially at night if lights fail, and they can also become dislodged during storms.
What types of activities are allowed within these artificial reefs?
Reefs are open to any responsible users who follow all applicable laws. This includes anglers, spear fishers, SCUBA divers, snorkelers, and skin divers who wish to harvest fish from these reefs, provided they adhere to all regulations.
What is the average depth of the artificial reefs in this program?
Artificial reef sites in this program typically have an average depth of 10.7 m (35.15 ft). However, individual sections can range from as shallow as 1.2 m (4 ft) to a maximum recorded depth of 15.5 m (51 ft).
What materials are used to create the artificial reefs?
Artificial reefs at this site consist of various materials. These include deployed fish cubes, tetrahedral-style materials, scrap metal, concrete culverts, concrete tubes, and artificial reef modules.
How can I support the creation of more artificial reefs in Florida?
You can support artificial reef creation by looking for the FWC Artificial Reef Program symbol when purchasing fishing equipment, motor fuel, and fishing licenses. These purchases contribute to grant funding provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Sport Fish Restoration and the State of Florida’s Marine Trust Conservation Fund.
Who manages the artificial reef program in Taylor County?
Management of the Taylor County Artificial Reef program falls to the Taylor County Artificial Reef Committee and the Taylor County Reef Research Team. FWC also provides statewide support, including permitting and funding for deployments.
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