On June 7, 2018, the first phase of a multi-year cannon preservation project will begin at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Through a partnership with Texas A&M University, 25 iron cannons will receive treatments to protect them from on-going corrosion from exposure to the elements. 14 iron cannons will be removed from the fort by barge and crane. Ultimately the cannons will be transported to the Conservation Research Laboratory at Texas A&M.

For the safety of the public, the fort will be closed on June 7 as the cannons are removed from the gun deck. Additional grounds closures will be in place along the sea wall directly east of the Castillo.

This partnership project with Texas A&M University is funded by park entrance fees collected at the Castillo. These funds help the National Park Service care for the historic structures, museum collections, and other critical maintenance projects necessary to preserve these special places for generations to come.