Ever wondered how you can turn your dives and snorkels into meaningful marine conservation? REEF’s Volunteer Fish Survey Project is an easy and fun way to get involved in citizen science! No specialized training or scientific background is required - just curiosity, a love for the ocean, and a desire to learn. What began in 1993 as a simple idea to collect data on fishes, similar to how birdwatchers do on land, has grown into a global effort that has resulted in the world's largest and longest-running marine life sightings database in the world.
You can start surveying right away, whether you’re exploring an ocean near you or traveling abroad. REEF has plenty of resources to help you along the way, including archived Fishinars (free fish ID webinars), online quizzes, and species sighting summaries from past surveys. You’ll quickly get hooked on learning how to identify fish and spotting new species every time you dive or snorkel. Surveying is also fun with a buddy! You can survey with one of your dive friends, or join a REEF Field Survey Trip. REEF Trips are a fantastic way to meet fellow ocean lovers and boost your surveying skills. All the materials you need are available in the REEF Starter Kit, available in our online store. Once you have your survey slate, you're ready to dive in and start making a difference on your dives or snorkels. For more information about the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project and getting started, visit www.REEF.org/vfsp.
Photo by Stacey Henderson.