HONOLULU -- The U.S. Navy's USS Port Royal damaged between 6 to 10 acres of reef when it ran aground off Oahu some two months ago.

The state issued a letter to the Navy indicating its plan to file claims over what marine experts describe as "extensive damage" to the coral reef.

While the repairs to the Port Royal are expected to cost taxpayers some $40 million, it is unknown what the price tag of the damage is to the environment.

The state Department of Land and Natural Resources released photos Wednesday showing damage to the reef. It showed divers mapping the scarred reef and some of the broken coral heads within the area where the ship ran aground.

The report indicated that the ship may have damaged areas where green sea turtles forage for food. At the time of the grounding, the state told the Navy there were three known turtle habitats located just off the reef runway.

The state is also worried about the immediate need to prevent additional damage caused by the loose coral rubble. It is a concern particularly with the anticipated summer swells.

Divers also made note of algae blooms, which officials said they believe may have been triggered by the release of raw sewage from the Port Royal.

The state is also still awaiting toxicity reports from the paint from the hull of the navy warship that may have been scrapped off during impact.

The Navy said it has just completed its underwater assesment. It expects to go over its plan to minimize damage in a meeting with the state on Thursday.