Foundation helps FGCU program build reefs to restore oyster habitats

FGCU researchers and nationwide partners continue to look for unique solutions to Southwest Florida’s water crisis. The FGCU ice hockey team breeds ground for nature’s own water filters with broken hockey sticks. Once an environmental concern, these sticks become repurposed to help marine ecosystems in need.

The Rink2Reef oyster habitats waterways restoration program has 45 artificial reefs made with broken hockey sticks throughout Southwest Florida waterways to date, and Sunday Naples Area Board of REALTORS (NABOR) helped the program build more reefs to restore oyster habitats.

“They’re carbon composite material,” FGCU prof. Dr. Mike Parson said. “So they don’t break down easily, so you’re throwing them in a landfill. And they’re just sitting there.”