Tuesday, April 13, 2010

Artificial Surf Reef for Corpus Christi Texas

I have surfed all over the USA though i will say I avoid really cold water unless the surf is pur...fect.
When I was a kid in Sarasota /Bradenton just across the channel north of Coquina Beach there was a washed out sea wall about a hundred yards out that over the years turned into the best beach break . There was an old artisan well pipe that spat out fresh water in spurts covered in barnacles it made an interesting obsticle that was avoided at all cost.
It really didn't appear to do any damage to the beach by wash out .It made a really nice curling 3- 4 foot break in area where it was pretty rare to get any decent surf at all.
My point is almost the same conditions are here directly across the Gulf in Texas. Except here it appears that on a continual basis the surf is higher and more frequent. It rarely has any long pipes.It is a typically washy shore break that forces a lot of short rides. This isn't always true but generally its the conditions.
There have been all sorts of fancy artificial reefs put in world wide . They have all meant one thing a big increase by surfers in using the spot. Corpus Christi could really use that. There is an added benefit that Florida is using quite effectively, reefs make great breeding grounds for all sorts of sea life.Surf Fishing is a big sport here in South Texas.

I suppose the first thing is to get designs for the best designs considering the conditions. Start figureing a possible budget based on a cost benefit plan including the myriad expenses acquired in government regulations when you do anything with either state or federal beach land.
Positive PR would be a big part of cutting the red tape.Perhaps a non profit corporation is needed. Certainly surf erosion would have to be considered quite closely.
An artificial reef would be a big tourist draw and hence quite a benefit to all the hotels motels restaurants and surf shops. It would increase the already growing SAil Board Sport Industry.
I would think an added fee for close parking would cover the cost perhaps temporary leases on close suppliers might help.
I'd be pleased as punch just to get that together but I might like to take it a step further and put in a permanent Concert Stage that would cater to Surf Music. Selena is still a big hero here in Corpus and the interest in local generated music has been bubbling just under the surface.

To borrow an expression from the movies "Build it and they will come"
If I carry this idea and dream threw I only have a few requirements.
1. It has to be environmentally sound.
2. It has to be an area that's kept clean and friendly to all.
3. It has to be family friendly but should be a good solid world class break not necessarily meant for the inexperienced or weak surfer and swimmer.
4. It should break even and be well maintained but the surfing are is not meant in of itself a profit center. Hence any fees associated with the project should be kept to a minimum.
5. Surfing as sports go is not a dangerous sport as sports go.It does have its dangers its part and parcel of the sport. The spirit of Texas must imbue this project free independent and responsible use is whats called for.Not creating a surf area that s overwhelmed by Nany State rules that are put in place to protect idiots from themselves. Its just as simple as taking what Nature gave us and improving it to create better wave forms for all to use and enjoy.

Let me know your thoughts and if you have an interest in seeing something like this happen.
I suggest we base any conversations at the or meet-ups to start at the Executive Surf
Lee Stevens stagenine@netscape.net
Here is one of many links about articial reefs to make . increase and improve a break.
http://blog.asrltd.com/

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