|
Leeann
(and Beachnet) -
This type of idea is concerning to me. For one, I don't think it's been demonstrated that creating
artificial reefs in the Great Lakes has any positive impact on the reproduction
of native fish. We know that many fish rely on nearshore habitats, and we're
beginning to understand how degradation of these habitats is impacting the Great
Lakes fishery. But there has been little physical disturbance to natural reef
habitats outside of the nearshore, and I would wonder what habitat value an
artificial structure could add.
The other aspect of this idea that is troubling is, up until now, intentional sinkings have been the result of fundraising efforts by diving communities for the purpose of providing exploration sites. The idea of the city of Chicago using the lake as a place to send its old buses to rest is very different, and may set a precedent for use of the lake as a disposal facility. Joel Brammeier
|