Alabama Converted Gas Rig Into Artificial Reefs
The state repurposed a decommissioned oil rig to expand marine habitats in the Gulf of Mexico.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in National Parks
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The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has successfully repurposed the decommissioned Spirit VK 780A natural gas rig into two new artificial reef sites. These underwater structures are designed to provide productive marine habitats for the next 50 years.
Why it matters
The Rigs to Reefs program preserves retired offshore structures as vital marine habitats rather than moving them onshore. This approach supports biodiversity by providing established ecosystems in deep water.
The new VK 780-T site sits at a water depth of 206 feet with a structure height of 107 feet, while the VK 780-B site is located at a depth of 722 feet with a total height of 632 feet from the seafloor.
The players
Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
This state agency is responsible for the management and protection of Alabama natural resources including coastal habitats.
APA Corporation
This energy company provided a $1.5 million donation to the state to support marine research and management.
The details
Engineers cut the rig legs and well jacket 90 feet below the water surface to ensure safety while maintaining structural integrity for sea life. The platform portion was removed and towed to shore for decommissioning, leaving the submerged base to serve as a reef.
Timeline
1983: Alabama established its first major artificial reefs.
1998: Habitat development began on the original rig platform.
2013: Alabama implemented the Rigs to Reefs program.
September 2026: The state finalized the creation of the two new reef sites.
Roadmap
This project continues the long-term trend of repurposing retired oil and gas infrastructure to bolster marine biodiversity in the Gulf of Mexico. It highlights a shift in industry decommissioning standards toward environmental conservation rather than total removal.
Anglers and divers looking to visit these new sites should coordinate with the state marine division to obtain exact GPS coordinates for safe navigation. Visitors must also be aware of the significant water depths at these locations, ranging from 206 to 722 feet.
The takeaway
Repurposing decommissioned offshore structures creates stable, long-term environments for marine life that would otherwise be destroyed. This model provides a cost-effective alternative for companies while simultaneously enhancing local coastal ecosystems.
Further reading
Learn more about the state's conservation efforts on the National Parks section.
More information
View official maps and data on the Alabama Artificial Reef Program information website.
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Do you support repurposing retired oil and gas rigs to create artificial reefs in your area?
