Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Memorial Reef?
A Memorial Reef is created by mixing a loved one's cremated remains into liquid concrete to form a designed reef system. We place a plaque on it and place it in legally permitted areas of the Gulf to create new marine habitats for fish and other forms of sea life.
Can I attend the casting of a Memorial Reef?
Yes, family members are notified of the casting dates and are encouraged to participate in the casting as they wish.
Can I attend the dedication of the Memorial Reef?
Yes, we will assist you with arrangements and boat reservation to dedicate the Memorial Reef Site.
Where will the Memorial Reef be located?
A Memorial Reef can only be placed in permitted locations that are approved by Federal, State, and local governments. OAR has several permitted areas directly off the coast of Franklin County and Wakulla County, FL. Our staff has selected a primary location within our permitted areas that is ideal for re-generating new marine ecosystems and accessible to SCUBA divers.
How long will a Memorial Reef last?
The Memorial Reefs are designed to last forever. Our reef mixture begins with standard concrete and adds special additives that increase its strength. We add natural Florida Limestone which is eco-friendly attracts critical marine life, and encourages growth of various types. This growth eventually coats the Memorial Reefs and enriches the environment.
Will a Memorial Reef move?
With hundreds of Reefs constructed and deployed, the Memorial Reef has been engineered to withstand the strongest storms the Gulf can produce. Our Reefs have withstood every storm since the inception of OAR.
Do you monitor the Reefs?
Yes. We have a dedicated dive team that periodically monitors the artificial reefs and records the conditions. Results of the reef surveys and accompanied photos/videos are posted at www.oarreefs.org
What kinds of plaques are available?
All individual Memorial Reefs have space for a marble plaque with plenty of room for an inscription. We can have the plaque made for you, or you can provide your own.
How will I know where the Memorial Reef is located?
We record the coordinates as we place the Memorial Reef on the Gulf's bottom and publish the coordinates on the OAR website. The authorized family representative will receive a certificate that identifies the longitude and latitude of the memorial reef.
Can I visit the location of the Memorial Reef?
Yes, you can visit Memorial Reefs. You can visit by boat and fish or dive on the Memorial Reef. The exact coordinates will be listed on your Memorial Reef Certificate as well as posted on the OAR website and local nautical charts.
Can I put more than one set of cremated remains in a Memorial Reef?
Yes, you can have one set or multiple sets mixed in a Memorial Reef at the time of the casting. There are some limitations based on amount of remains and the size of the memorial. Please call for more details.
How often do deployments occur?
Deployments occur at least once a year, and more often depending on the type of Reef and our annual funding situation.
Can I place personal memorabilia in the Reef?
Once the Memorial Reefs have been cast, family and friends are given the opportunity to personalize the Reef by creating handprints, inserting personal keepsakes and writing messages in the damp concrete reef mixture before it dries. Many loved ones feel this is a wonderful way to stay in touch for eternity.
Can the cost of the Memorial Reef be treated as a Tax Deduction?
OAR is a 501(c) (3) not for profit corporation; therefore, donations may qualify for a tax deduction. This determination will be left to your professional accountant.
What if I would like to learn more about the Memorial Reef Program?
Please contact OAR.
