Todd Graves, the owner of Raising Cane’s, has donated US$100,000/~€90,010 for the construction of five artificial reefs.
The first of these reefs will be the Raising Cane’s Hotel Sid Reef off the Coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana. The funds were made available through a donation to CCA Louisiana.
The new reef will replace a decommissioned oil and gas platform called Hotel SID. The platform has served as an artificial reef from many years, and had drawn anglers from across the area attracted to the schools of speckled trout that had made it home. The platform was removed in 2023.
Commenting on the new reef installation, Graves stated:
“As a native Louisianan, I grew up fishing in these waters and know first-hand the importance marine conservation plays in the livelihood of this state. I’ve had many great times here at Grand Isle and fishing at Hotel Sid, and I’m so proud to help restore the reefs that not only our marine ecosystem depends on, but local businesses and anglers as well. These reefs will be around for generations to come and I’m looking forward to taking my grandkids out here one day. This is a huge step in marine conservation and Raising Cane’s Hotel Sid will enable future generations to enjoy and benefit from the great fishing this area is known for.”
While David Cresson, the Executive Director of CCA Louisiana, added:
“Restoring Hotel Sid was made possible by Todd and Raising Cane’s. Todd is a great friend and incredible conservationist and outdoorsman, and having him here with us today is an honor. I have no words to describe how thankful we are not only for Raising Cane’s Hotel Sid, but Todd’s commitment to sponsoring four additional reefs. That’s huge!”
