Ex-USS Spiegel Grove (LSD 32)

Environmental Profiles assisted in preparing the ex-USS Spiegel Grove (LSD-32) to be sunk off the coast of Florida as an artificial reef for the conservation of marine life. The work was co-sponsored by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and the Upper Keys Artificial Reef Committee.

Safety, health and environmental plans and programs were developed by Environmental Profiles that included inspection protocols, risk management plans, and programs necessary for regulatory compliance. Environmental Profiles provided support from the time of vessel acquisition until the completion of final inspections by the U.S. Coast Guard.

When work was completed, the 510-foot Spiegel Grove became the largest vessel ever put down as an artificial reef, and was sunk to a depth of 110 feet. This depth resulted in the vessel's superstructure being approximately 40 feet from the surface of the water, offering novice and expert divers alike the opportunity to experience the thrill of recreational wreck diving.

In Chesapeake, Virginia, with the participation of Environmental Profiles, Inc., the vessel was cleaned of materials such as PCBs, oil and fluids, deteriorated paint, and other potentially hazardous materials, before being towed in June 2002 to Florida for sinking approximately five miles off the coast of Key Largo.

The ex-USS Spiegel Grove was moved from its anchorage at the James River Reserve Fleet in Ft. Eustis, Virginia on Wednesday June 13, 2001. The 510-foot Spiegel Grove was towed 22 miles down the James River to the Accurate Marine Environmental facility on the Elizabeth River in Portsmouth, Virginia. After initial vessel characterization, the vessel was moved to Bay Bridge Enterprises in Chesapeake, Virginia, where the work was completed.

Over the next 10 months, the vessel underwent various aspects of cleaning and preparation for sinking. Cleaning included the removal of all electrical cable and ductwork; fluids, fuels, and ballast; lead-based paint; and assorted electrical equipment.

In our efforts to reduce environmental pollution from the project, removed articles such as cable and wire, aluminum, and non-PCB electrical equipment were offered for recycling.

From the summer of 2001 to the late spring of 2002, crews accomplished the removal of electrical cable from the vessel, as well as all tank cleaning and loose paint removal. The ship was also made ready for diver safety by experienced divers.

813 Frederick Road
Baltimore, MD 21228

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