Rail Cars to become artificial reefs

Two Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) rail cars which once tranported millions of passengers have been sunk along Georgia's coastline to support the fish habitat.  

 

The reefs were first created in 1970 and are made from a variety of materials. As well as creating aqautic habitats, they also attract anglers and divers which all help boost Georgia's economy. It is not the first time that the reefs have seen rail cars. A decade ago, New York City donated its old fleet of subway cars. 

 

'This is sustainability at its finest,' said Richard Thomas, director of sustainability at MARTA. 'Localising such a massive undertaking was a historic win for the state of Georgia. 

 

By the time the 55,000 pound rail cars entered the ocean, they were a skeleton of stainless stell which would soon be teeming with life.  

 

'We are mimicking the natural live bottom. Artifical reefs increase accessibilty for anglers and divers and can see a growth in fish population. Rail cars have a large surface area which is great for growing reef material. They are also fairly tall which creates some shelter for fish.' said Cameron Brinton, a marine biologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. 

 

The two cars are part of a pilot project but it is hoped that more cars will be destined for the ocean rather than being recycled or sent to museums.