Marine biologist and reef expert Bill Horn has joined the South Walton Artificial Reef Association as their newest board member.

Horn is highly respected across Florida for his scientific contribution and knowledge of artificial reefs and fisheries management issues. He recently retired from a career as a fisheries biologist with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Artificial Reef Program and returned home to Seagrove Beach, his hometown since 1959.

“This is kind of like having Joe Montana come out of Notre Dame and want to play for your team,” said Andy McAlexander, president of the South Walton Artificial Reef Association. “We are honored and humbled to have him join us.”

Horn’s over 30 years of marine biology credentials include:

— Developing and teaching Reef Research Diver training programs for non-profit organizations for 25 years

— Developing and teaching Reef Fish Identification and Census Courses

— Developing and teaching SCUBA courses for the Florida State University academic dive program

— Past chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Dive Control Board

— Founding member of the Organization for Artificial Reef’s Research Dive Team and Dive Control Board

— Over 1,300 dives, including about 650 scientific dives and 370 dives as an instructor or trainer.

The South Walton Artificial Reef Association is a non-profit organization focused on creating permitted artificial reefs in Walton County’s Gulf of Mexico and Choctawhatchee Bay coastal waters for the benefit and health of environment and community.

Visit waltonreefs.org for more information.