Charter captain praises artificial reef program; agency and commissioners stress next‑generation investment

Clarence Seymour, a charter boat captain from Ocean Springs with 27 years’ experience, thanked Mississippi Department of Marine Resources staff for work on the artificial reef program and urged continued investment in reef infrastructure and outreach to younger anglers. "It's been amazing," Seymour said of the artificial reef program and staff support. He noted historic reef development, the loss of structure from Hurricane Katrina, and that some replacements remain pending while funding is secured. Commission members and staff acknowledged the comments and emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation of reef stewards. One commissioner thanked Seymour and agency staff and said the commission should ensure resources and programs support future reef development and engagement. Discussion only: public comment from Captain Seymour and responses by commissioners and staff; no formal action recorded. Why it matters: artificial reef placement and maintenance influence recreational and commercial fishing opportunities, habitat structure and local marine economies.