In 2002, Florida sank a 510-foot Navy ship off Key Largo; the USS Spiegel Grove became one of the world's largest purpose-built ship reefs

In 2002, the USS Spiegel Grove, a decommissioned Navy ship, was purposely sunk near Key Largo to form an artificial reef. This innovative action has since attracted countless species of marine life, enhancing the habitat and relieving stress on natural ecosystems. The influx of divers has also stimulated the local economy, making the Spiegel Grove a cherished spot for divers and a testament to effective ocean preservation efforts.