In 1994, the U.S. sank 100 M60 tanks in the Gulf of Mexico to build underwater habitats. Three decades later, these heavy vehicles form thriving artificial reefs.
Conservation workers released Kemp's ridley turtles from Gulf State Park with satellite tags to track their migration. In a separate effort, another reef was placed to honor Charlie Kirk.
On land, Alabama senator Tommy Tuberville suggested naming the Mobile bridge after Jimmy Buffett, highlighting the singer's Gulf ties. To expand shipping capacity, Louisiana opened a new port to reshape Gulf Coast trade. The facility started operating earlier this year to handle freight traffic.
Artificial reefs continue to grow from old tanks and new structures. Regional authorities have taken notice of these underwater and coastal changes.