Restoration funds: $1.66 million.

Restoration goal: A healthy reef ecosystem.

The goal of the restoration project was to re-create a stable foundation that closely emulates the adjacent natural seabed (coral reef) to foster recruitment of coral colonies. The two large craters were filled to grade with rock and rubble from nearby berms, additional quarry boulders, and sand transported by barge to the site.

Schematic view of filled blow hole created by the grounding

Removal of debris and structural stabilization of the substrate is complete. Biologists will transplant corals, sea fans and sponges to enhance natural recovery rates of the coral communities. For the next several years, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will monitor these restoration efforts for structural integrity, growth rates of transplanted corals and recruitment of new coral colonies and fish populations.