Walking along the docks in Engelhard, we came across a large lot on the waterfront covered with what appeared to be concrete beehives. There were dozens scattered about drying, and workers were busy pouring concrete into metal molds to make more. There were a couple of guys taking a break and I stopped to talk.
"I know this is a probably a stupid question, but what are these things?"
A young man who appreared to be in charge of the operation laughed and said, "Everyone that stops says the same thing; 'sorry for the stupid question'. These will be carried out into the sound and sunk for oyster habitat."
I later learned that these structures are often called "igloos" and are used for several kinds of marine restoration projects, including forming artificial reefs to benefit fish and shellfish populations. According to the worker I talked to, the company has an order from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to construct 2500 of these concrete igloos.
The workers were in Engelhard on temporary assignment and allowed that the town is nice enough, but there is not much to do during off hours. They were counting the days until they could go back home.
Interesting! I haven't seen them...thanks.
ReplyDeletehappy trails