The Austin, a 68' former trawler, is slated for deployment on September 13, 2016 on the Axel Carlson Reef. The Axel Carlson Reef site is located 4.4 nautical miles southeast of Manasquan Inlet. This vessel is being sunk as part of the NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife's Artificial Reef Program.

Once the vessel is sunk it will soon become a home for 150 species of fish and marine life, a fishing ground for anglers and an underwater attraction for scuba divers. The vessel will continue to serve the fishing industry for at least another 70 years.

The target deployment location is: 40 02.900'   73 59.000'

The vessel is being sunk on a portion of the reef set aside for recreational fishing only. Anglers should stay a safe distance away while the vessel is being anchored in place and scuttled.

The target date for deployment of September 13, 2016 is subject to weather and sea conditions. For further information regarding the deployment of the vessel contact either Hugh Carberry or Peter Clarke at 609-748-2020.