Osborne Reef stands as a cautionary tale about artificial reef projects and their potential unintended consequences. While intended to enhance marine environments, it has instead become a source of ongoing environmental concern and cleanup challenges.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Situated approximately 1 mile offshore from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Osborne Reef is an artificial reef created from discarded tires.
• Depth: The dive site typically reaches depths of around 70 feet (21 meters), making it accessible for certified divers.
• Visibility: Visibility ranges from moderate to good, generally between 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters), particularly during the peak diving season from April to November.
• Marine Life: The site has limited biodiversity, with primarily small fish and few marine organisms inhabiting the tire structures.
• Diving Experience Level: Suitable for certified beginners with supervision, but particularly appealing for advanced divers interested in unique environments and conservation efforts.
• Environmental Context: Osborne Reef is known for its ecological challenges due to the presence of tires, leading to ongoing cleanup initiatives and opportunities for divers to engage in conservation activities.
• Unique Features: The underwater landscape is characterized by thousands of tires, providing a surreal diving experience that contrasts sharply with vibrant coral reefs.

Osborne Reef Fort Lauderdale

Osborne Reef, located approximately 7,000 feet offshore from Sunrise Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is notorious for being an environmental failure. Originally intended as an artificial reef to support marine life, it was constructed in the 1970s by placing around two million discarded tires on the ocean floor.

This initiative was spearheaded by a local non-profit organization, Broward Artificial Reef Inc. (BARINC), and supported by various governmental agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, which even dropped a gold-painted tire from a blimp to celebrate the project’s launch.

Environmental Impact

The initial hope was that marine life would thrive on the structure, similar to natural coral reefs. However, the reality has been quite different. The tires have not only failed to support significant marine growth but have also caused considerable ecological damage. Many tires became dislodged during storms and began migrating across the seabed, damaging nearby natural reefs and leading to further degradation of marine habitats.

As divers explore the site today, they describe it as an eerie landscape resembling a “moon-like” setting filled with tires rather than vibrant marine life. The environmental consequences have led to Osborne Reef being labeled an ecological disaster.

Cleanup Efforts

Over the years, several cleanup initiatives have been undertaken to mitigate the damage caused by the tires:

• 2001: Dr. Robin Sherman initiated a tire removal program but only managed to recover about 1,600 tires due to funding limitations.
• 2007-2008: The U.S. military conducted significant recovery operations as part of a training exercise, successfully retrieving approximately 53,900 tires from the reef.
• 2009: Further efforts saw around 73,000 tires removed from the site by military divers.

Despite these efforts, it is estimated that hundreds of thousands of tires remain on the reef, and ongoing projects aim to continue tire removal into the future.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

• Limited Species Diversity: The tires have not fostered the growth of new corals or marine organisms as initially hoped. Instead, they have created a habitat that is largely inhospitable to most marine life.
• Common Sightings: Divers have reported seeing a few small fish species around the tires, but these populations are sparse and do not represent a thriving ecosystem6.The slick surfaces of the tires may attract some fish, but they do not provide suitable conditions for a diverse range of marine species.
• Damage to Nearby Reefs: The movement of tires during storms has caused significant damage to nearby coral reefs, further limiting the overall marine biodiversity in the area. As the tires dislodge and collide with natural reefs, they destroy habitats that would otherwise support a variety of marine life.

Current Status and Cleanup Efforts

Efforts are ongoing to remove the remaining tires from Osborne Reef, with various organizations involved in cleanup initiatives. Despite these efforts, it is estimated that over 500,000 tires still remain on the ocean floor as of recent reports. The restoration of a healthy marine ecosystem at this site will require extensive cleanup and rehabilitation work.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

• Environmental Disaster: Many divers express disappointment at the state of the reef, which was intended to support marine life but has instead become a graveyard of tires. They note that the initial vision of a thriving artificial reef has failed dramatically, leaving behind a landscape dominated by decaying tires rather than vibrant marine ecosystems.
• Limited Marine Life: Divers report seeing only a few small fish and minimal marine diversity around the tires. The habitat created by the tires does not support significant coral growth or a variety of marine species, leading to a stark contrast with healthy reefs that teem with life.
• Impact on Nearby Reefs: The movement of tires during storms has caused damage to adjacent natural coral reefs, further exacerbating the environmental impact. Divers have noted that the dislodged tires can collide with and destroy nearby coral habitats, contributing to the overall decline in marine biodiversity in the area.
• Cleanup Efforts: Many divers are aware of ongoing cleanup initiatives led by organizations like 4ocean, which aim to remove the remaining tires from the reef. However, they recognize that this is a challenging task, with estimates suggesting that over 500,000 tires still lie on the ocean floor as of recent reports. Divers often express hope that these efforts will eventually restore some ecological balance to the area.

Key Information

Highlights of Diving This Site?

• Unique Underwater Landscape: Divers describe the site as an unusual underwater environment dominated by thousands of tires. This creates a surreal and somewhat haunting atmosphere, contrasting sharply with vibrant coral reefs typically found in other dive locations.
• Limited Marine Life: While the intention was to create a thriving artificial reef, divers often report seeing only a few small fish species. The lack of biodiversity is notable compared to healthier dive sites, making encounters with marine life relatively rare.
• Historical Context: Divers appreciate the opportunity to explore a site that serves as a cautionary tale about artificial reefs. The history of the project and its environmental impact adds an educational layer to the dive experience.
• Environmental Awareness: Many divers express a sense of responsibility and urgency regarding the cleanup efforts. They often participate in or support initiatives aimed at removing tires from the reef, highlighting a growing awareness of marine conservation issues.

Iconic Spots At This Site

• Tire Fields: The most prominent feature of Osborne Reef is the vast fields of tires scattered across the ocean floor. This surreal landscape is unlike traditional coral reefs, offering a stark contrast that divers find both intriguing and disheartening.
• Historical Markers: Divers can explore areas where significant cleanup efforts have taken place. These spots may feature remnants of previous tire removal operations, serving as reminders of the ongoing battle to restore the reef’s ecological balance.
• Marine Life Encounters: While the marine biodiversity is limited, divers may still spot small fish species that have adapted to the tire structures. These encounters, although sparse, can include species that are occasionally found in the vicinity of artificial reefs.
• Nearby Natural Reefs: Although Osborne Reef itself is not thriving, it is located near natural coral reefs that may offer more vibrant marine life. Divers often take the opportunity to explore these adjacent sites after visiting the tire fields.
• Cleanup Sites: Some divers participate in or observe ongoing cleanup initiatives, which can be an integral part of the diving experience. Engaging in these efforts not only contributes to environmental restoration but also provides insight into marine conservation practices.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Osborne Reef

Cleanup Initiatives

• 4ocean: This organization has made the cleanup of Osborne Reef a central mission. They employ a sustainable model by selling jewelry made from salvaged tires to fund their cleanup operations. As of 2022, they estimated that over 500,000 tires remain on the ocean floor, and they continue to work towards removing these tires while raising awareness about ocean pollution.
• Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP): The DEP is actively monitoring the situation through its Osborne Reef Waste Tire Removal Project. They have allocated funding for tire removal and are developing a comprehensive restoration plan, with a report due by July 2024 that will detail the condition of the reef and an estimated timeline for cleanup completion.
• U.S. Military Involvement: The military has played a significant role in cleanup efforts through programs like the Innovative Readiness Training (IRT). From 2007 to 2009, military divers removed approximately 73,000 tires as part of their training exercises. This collaboration has provided essential labor and expertise for ongoing recovery operations.
• Industrial Divers Association (IDA): Between 2016 and 2019, IDA successfully removed over 250,000 tires from the reef. Their efforts were part of a broader initiative supported by state funding aimed at mitigating the environmental impact of the tire dump.

Future Plans and Goals

• The Florida government has committed resources to continue addressing the ecological damage caused by the tires. A recent assessment authorized by Governor Ron DeSantis aims to evaluate the remaining structure of the reef and outline a detailed cleanup strategy.
• 4ocean’s approach serves as a potential model for similar cleanup operations worldwide, emphasizing sustainable practices that can be replicated in other regions facing similar environmental challenges.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Osborne Reef

Preparation and Planning

• Research the Site: Familiarize yourself with the history and environmental issues surrounding Osborne Reef. Understanding the ecological challenges can provide context for your dive and enhance your appreciation of the site.
• Check Conditions: Before diving, check local weather and ocean conditions. Visibility can vary, so plan your dive for a day with optimal conditions to improve your experience.
• Dive with a Guide: Consider joining a guided dive tour. Local dive operators often have experience with the site and can provide valuable insights, ensuring a safer and more informative experience.

Diving Gear Recommendations

• Appropriate Equipment: Ensure you have the right gear for diving in potentially challenging conditions. A wetsuit may be necessary for warmth, and a dive computer can help monitor your depth and time.
• Underwater Camera: Bring an underwater camera to capture the unique landscape of tires. Documenting your experience can create lasting memories and help raise awareness about marine conservation issues.

Engagement During the Dive

• Observe Marine Life: While marine biodiversity is limited, take time to observe any fish or marine organisms you encounter. Look for small species that may inhabit the tire structures, as well as any signs of recovery in nearby natural reefs.
• Participate in Cleanup Efforts: If possible, engage in conservation activities during your dive. Many organizations offer opportunities to assist with tire removal or other cleanup initiatives, allowing you to contribute positively to the environment while diving.
• Explore Adjacent Reefs: Plan to visit nearby natural reefs after exploring Osborne Reef. These areas often have more diverse marine life and can provide a stark contrast to the tire fields, enhancing your overall diving experience.

Post-Dive Reflection

• Share Your Experience: After your dive, share your experiences with fellow divers or on social media. Highlighting the environmental issues at Osborne Reef can help raise awareness and promote conservation efforts.
• Support Conservation Initiatives: Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations actively working on cleanup efforts at Osborne Reef or similar sites. Your involvement can make a difference in restoring marine ecosystems.

Capturing Memories at Osborne Reef: Photography Tips

Essential Gear

• Underwater Camera: Invest in a good underwater camera or housing for your smartphone. Look for models that are rated for the depth you’ll be diving.
• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive views of the tire fields and any surrounding marine life. This will help you include more of the underwater environment in your shots.
• Strobe or Flash: Consider using an external strobe or flash to illuminate subjects and reduce backscatter, which can occur in murky water. Proper lighting can enhance colors and details in your photos.

Shooting Techniques

• Use Natural Light: If diving at shallow depths, take advantage of natural light. Aim to shoot during midday when sunlight penetrates the water more effectively, enhancing colors and visibility.
• Get Close: Underwater photography often benefits from getting as close to your subject as possible. This minimizes the amount of water between you and your subject, reducing distortion and improving clarity.
• Stabilize Your Shots: Use a steady hand or a tripod if possible. Underwater currents can make it difficult to keep your camera still, so take your time to frame each shot carefully.
• Experiment with Angles: Don’t hesitate to try different angles and perspectives. Shooting from above, below, or at an angle can create more dynamic compositions and highlight the unique features of the tire landscape.

Composition Tips

• Rule of Thirds: Use the rule of thirds to create balanced compositions. Position key elements along the grid lines or at their intersections for a more engaging photo.
• Focus on Textures: The tire surfaces provide interesting textures that can add depth to your images. Capture close-ups of these textures to showcase the unique environment of Osborne Reef.
• Include Divers: Incorporating fellow divers into your shots can add a sense of scale and context to your photos. It also captures the human element of the diving experience.

Post-Dive Editing

• Editing Software: Use photo editing software to enhance your images after your dive. Adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance can help bring out details that may have been lost underwater.
• Crop Thoughtfully: Cropping can improve composition by removing distractions from the edges of your photos. Focus on maintaining the integrity of the image while enhancing its overall impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fort Lauderdale Dives Sites

• Twin Ledges
• Hammerhead Reef
• Barracuda Reef
• First Reef Line
• Second Reef Line
• Third Reef Line
• Yellow Brick Road
• Perry Street Rocks
• Rapa Nui Reef
• Osborne Reef
• Lauderdale-by-the-Sea
• Reef Hall of Fame
• Reef Erojax (The Jax)
• Oakland Ridge
• Tenneco Towers
• The Caves
• Turtle Beach Reef
• Pompano Dropoff
• Seahorse Reef
• Lobster Ledge
• The Wall
• The Jungle Gym
• Antenna Reef
• Coral Gardens