About the reef
In 1999, the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority (MTA) constructed Sculpin Ledge reef in Boston Harbor. This construction was part of Massachusetts’ “Big Dig” Project. MTA built the reef to provide mitigation for marine habitat impacts resulting from the restoration of Spectacle Island, where fill from the Big Dig was used to create a public park. The artificial reef serves as a habitat for blue mussels, lobster, and other fish and shellfish. The reef site consists of 17 terrace-type modules and 6 boulder patch reefs.
Current status of the reef
DMF maintains an acoustic receiver at this site that detects and records any fish previously fitted with an acoustic tag when they are present near the reef. Data is recovered during annual visits to the site.
Today, you can find a variety of fish species on the reef, including;
- Blue Mussel
- Cunner
- Jonah Crab
- Lobster
- Skates
- Winter flounder
- Striped Bass