Author: The REEF Team
REEF is thrilled to invite you to the grand opening celebration of the new REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation, taking place this weekend, June 7-8. This exciting, family-friendly event is free and open to the public, and it marks a major milestone in REEF’s mission to connect people with ocean conservation.
Whether you’re a long-time REEF member or a first-time visitor, the grand opening celebration offers a chance to check out the all-new Ocean Exploration Center and experience the wonders of the underwater world, no wetsuit needed!
Event Schedule
Saturday, June 7 - 3-7pm: Grand Opening Celebration including official ribbon cutting at 4pm, as well as plenty of family-friendly fun including interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and digital displays, educational tours. We'll also have games, and local food and drink vendors.
Sunday, June 8: Join us for a Fish Out of Water Virtual 5K kickoff party from 10am-noon, then explore the Center at your own pace. Regular opening hours until 5pm.
The Ocean Exploration Center is located at 98380 Overseas Highway in Key Largo, FL. It is a vibrant, engaging space designed to educate and inspire. Visitors can learn about coral reef ecosystems, discover how REEF volunteers contribute to marine research, and explore the biodiversity of the Florida Keys and beyond. The Center features state-of-the-art exhibits focused on citizen science, marine life, and ocean conservation. Central to our “Oceans for All” values, admission to the Center will always be free.
This opening weekend is a great time to get involved with REEF’s work, meet the team, and see how the new facility will serve as a hub for learning, exploration, and community science. Come celebrate this exciting chapter for REEF and dive deeper into your connection with the sea this World Ocean Day. We look forward to seeing you there! For full details visit www.REEF.org/oecgrandopening.
Author: Christy Pattengill-Semmens, Ph.D., Co-Executive Director: Science & Engagement
Last week, REEF Co-Executive Director Dr. Christy Pattengill-Semmens joined hundreds of experts, educators, and community leaders in Oregon for the 2025 Conference for Advancing the Participatory Sciences. This annual event brings together people from around the world who are passionate about involving the public in scientific research.
Christy participated in a wide range of sessions, featuring topics such as the ethical use of artificial intelligence, the role of zoos and aquariums in expanding conservation efforts, and the growing scientific impact of participatory research. She also had the chance to reconnect with colleagues, share updates on REEF programs, and even got to catch up with Stephanie Letourneau, a REEF Intern Alumna!
Stephanie interned with REEF in Summer 2020. Since then, she’s been active in the citizen science community: first with the Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring (ALLARM), and now with Wetlands Watch, where she helps coordinate "Catch the King,” a project that trains volunteers to gather data on coastal flooding during the highest seasonal tides, also known as king tides, in Virginia. We’re always thrilled to see former REEF interns making meaningful contributions in the field!
This conference was hosted by the Association for the Advancement of Participatory Sciences, formerly known as the Citizen Science Association. The organization recently adopted a more inclusive name to better reflect the diverse ways that communities and scientists work together. At REEF, we continue to describe our Volunteer Fish Survey Project and other programs as citizen science, a key part of the broader participatory sciences movement. To learn more about the name change and the mission of the association, visit this link.
Author: Rose Kelly, Education Coordinator
Looking for a fun and educational way to dive into ocean learning this summer? REEF Ocean Explorers Education Programs are now being hosted in our brand-new Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo, and we’re excited to welcome learners of all ages!
The Ocean Exploration Center features immersive exhibits, learning stations, and a state-of-the-art classroom, all designed to spark curiosity about marine life and ocean conservation. It’s the perfect place for school groups, scout troops, families, and travelers to explore the wonders of the sea.
Our Discovery Programs cover a wide range of ocean topics and are designed for participants of all ages and experience levels, from seasoned divers to first-time ocean explorers. Popular themes include: Florida Keys Fish ID, Florida Keys Ecology, Grouper Moon Project/Endangered Species, and Invasive Lionfish. Programs can be customized to fit the interests of your group and are a great way to add a splash of science to your summer plans.
Not in the Keys? No problem! REEF also offers engaging virtual education programs for classrooms and community groups across the country. These include interactive virtual field trips, marine science case studies for grades 3–12, and a wide variety of free webinars and educator resources. Whether you are visiting our new Center in person or learning from afar, REEF has something for every ocean lover.
Learn more and book your program today at www.REEF.org/explorers.
Author: Carolyn Corley, Education Coordinator
Lace up those running shoes - the Fish Out of Water Virtual 5K is right around the corner, happening June 8-14, and there are just a few days left to register! Visit www.REEF.org/5K to see all the details and register now!
This fun event is the perfect way for marine life lovers of all ages and fitness levels to celebrate World Ocean Day. You get to choose how and where you participate - run, walk, hike, bike, swim, paddle, from anywhere in the world! Whether you’re on a trail, treadmill, beach, or reef, you’re part of the REEF community making a difference.
If you're coming to the grand opening of the REEF Ocean Exploration Center this weekend in Key Largo (June 7-8), you can also register in person and get your 5K materials on the spot!
Your registration supports REEF’s marine conservation efforts and includes a limited-edition event shirt, printable race bib, and a set of fish stickers! Plus, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing you’re helping protect the ocean - one step, stroke, or spin at a time.
Author: Noa Parks, Citizen Science Coordinator
We are thrilled to welcome two exceptional REEF surveyors, Brice Semmens and Laurie Fulton, as the newest members of the Golden Hamlet Club! This prestigious group honors REEF volunteers who have conducted 1,000 or more REEF surveys as part of the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project. This remarkable milestone reflects a deep commitment to marine conservation and citizen science.
Laurie Fulton began surveying with REEF in 2012, and conducted her 1,000th REEF survey during a REEF Field Survey Trip in Lembeh, Indonesia in November 2024. She is an Expert Surveyor in the Central Indo-Pacific (CIP), South Pacific (SOP), Tropical Western Atlantic (TWA), Eastern Atlantic & Mediterranean (EAM), and Indian Ocean & Red Sea (IORS) regions, and has also surveyed in Hawaii. Indonesia is her favorite dive destination, and she loves the “treasure hunt” of spotting new fish. Her goals are to keep diving and surveying as long as she can, and maybe even survey in every REEF region!
Brice Semmens has a part of REEF since the beginning. Starting out as an intern with the Nature Conservancy in 1993, he helped develop the Roving Diver Technique, the method we use to this day for our REEF surveys. That same summer, he met his wife, Christy Pattengill-Semmens, REEF's Co-Executive Director! Brice has conducted surveys in nearly every REEF region, with favorite sites like Little Cayman (home of the Grouper Moon Project) and Mount Mutiny in Fiji, famed for its breathtaking coral cover. Brice conducted his 1,000th REEF survey on April 14, 2025, which was also his birthday! The milestone dive took place at Nigali Passage in Fiji, during a REEF Field Survey Trip.
Brice and Laurie join an inspiring group of REEF surveyors whose survey data contributions help inform marine science and policy, support local management efforts, and increase our understanding of reef fish populations. Visit this page to learn more about the Golden Hamlet Club and see all surveyors who have achieved this milestone, visit this page. Please join us in congratulating Brice and Laurie on this incredible achievement, and thank you to all of our surveyors who make REEF’s work possible, one survey at a time!
Author: Amy Lee, Communications Manager
We are excited to welcome our Summer 2025 Marine Education & Conservation Interns to REEF! They will assist with education, outreach, events, and more at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo. Since 1993, more than 150 young adults have interned with REEF and transitioned into careers all over the world, in the marine conservation field and beyond. Please join us in welcoming Camille, Ashley, Imogen, and Daisy (pictured from L-R). Here's a bit more about them:
Camille Beeding is from the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is currently a junior at Louisiana State University, studying coastal and environmental science and minoring in sociology. Camille has studied abroad in Mexico, interned with Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, and worked with Louisiana Sea Grant. She has discovered her passion for marine education and outreach within the past year, and hopes to build on this newfound interest during her summer with REEF!
Ashley Gambrell graduated from Clemson University with a B.S. in biological sciences and a minor in chemistry. Her senior thesis examined spiny lobster non-consumptive effects on Caribbean sea urchin species, and she has also studied mammalian ecology in South Africa! Ashley's goals are to become a professor studying behavior and ecology of invertebrates on coral reefs. She is passionate about marine education, conservation, and outreach, and is excited to join the REEF team!
Imogen Parker grew up in Long Island, NY. They graduated from college in 2024 with a double major in environmental science and visual studies. Her thesis involved building a trail and outdoor classroom in homage to the love and learning found through nature. Imogen has also assisted with teaching coursework in Daoism & Taijiquan and a Freshwater Ecology Lab. They are thrilled to be part of REEF and are eager to contribute to the mission of marine conservation, outreach, and education!
Daisy Anderson is studying biology at James Madison University, expecting to graduate in 2026. In college she discovered a deep passion for environmental education and public outreach, and is interested in combining hands on wildlife work with education to inspire others to care about the natural world. She is hoping to become SCUBA certified during her time in the Keys and is excited to keep growing her communication and conservation skills at REEF!
For more information about the Marine Conservation Internship or to apply for an upcoming semester, visit www.REEF.org/internship.
Author: Stacey Henderson, Field Survey Trips Program Manager
We are excited to share that we've just added some new trips to our Field Survey Trip schedule for 2026, as well as a trip in 2028! Read on for the details.
Jamaica - March 14-21, 2026 - Click here for details.
Enjoy warm Jamaican hospitality and a stunning beachfront setting. The calm, protected reefs of Negril attract divers from all over the world.
Croatia - July 25-August 1, 2026 - Click here for details.
Join us to explore the Mediterranean Sea! A combination of boat diving and shore diving make this destination a great spot for REEF explorers.
Andros Island, Bahamas - November 7-14, 2026 - Click here for details.
Unwind and enjoy the amazing variety of dives at Small Hope Bay Lodge, a historic, eco-friendly resort.
Sea of Cortez - Explore Baja itinerary - September 10-22, 2028 - Click here for details.
Enjoy the brand new Quino del Mar liveboard on an expedition exploring the best Baja has to offer. Starting in the north and ending in the southern Sea of Cortez, the mountainous desert landscapes, rocky reefs, and pinnacles, make this spot a favorite destination for REEF surveyors. The marine life varies greatly from north to south, and the diversity of nudibranchs, rays, eels, octopuses, blennies, jawfish, and more make it easy to understand why Jacques Cousteau nicknamed this region "the world's aquarium."
If you are looking to take a trip this year, we have a few spaces still available, including a female shared space in Yap, with additional openings on our Canary Islands and Curacao trips. Visit www.REEF.org/trips to see these and all upcoming trips on the schedule. REEF Field Survey Trips are eco-vacations led by marine life experts. Each trip features daily dives and fish ID classes for both beginners and experienced surveyors. To book your space on a REEF Trip, email trips@REEF.org. We hope to "sea" you underwater soon!
Author: The REEF Team
Introducing our June Fish of the Month, the Striped Surgeonfish, Acanthurus lineatus!
Survey Regions: Striped Surgeonfish are found throughout the Indo-Pacific, from Eastern Africa to Indonesia, Micronesia, the Solomon Islands, and French Polynesia, covering a wide area that spans several REEF regions including the Central-Indo Pacific (CIP), South Pacific (SOP), and Indian Ocean & Red Sea (IORS.) Here are links to the distribution reports in the REEF database for this species: CIP, SOP, IORS.
Size: They grow to a maximum of 15 inches.
Identifying Features: Striped Surgeonfish are gold with black-edged blue stripes and a pale bluish belly. Most of their fins have bright blue edging.
Fun Facts: Striped Surgeonfish have a sharp, venomous spine on each side of their tail base. They can frequently be found in shallow, surge-swept areas, where they feed on algae. They can be territorial and will chase other fish away from their designated feeding areas.
Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for our next Fish of the Month.
Photo by Stacey Henderson.
