REEF Fest is returning to Key Largo this October 16-19, 2025, and one of the most anticipated parts of the weekend is the free seminar series, now hosted in the brand-new REEF Ocean Exploration Center. These engaging talks feature marine scientists, conservationists, and underwater explorers who will share more about their work and storytelling. This year’s presentations take place on Friday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 18. All seminars are free and open to the public, and will be live-streamed and recorded for later viewing. Check out all the details at www.REEF.org/REEFfest. Seminars include:
"Can Reef Tanks Save Coral? Hobbyists and the Future of the Healthy Ocean" presented by Sam Muka, Associate Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology: Sam will explore how hobbyists and home aquariums have influenced coral conservation while sharing insights from her book Oceans under Glass: Tank Craft and the Sciences of the Sea.
“Tracking Shark and Ray Sightings Across the Caribbean: Insights from Decades of Citizen Science Data" presented by Brendan Talwar, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Scholar at Scripps Institution of Oceanography: Using REEF’s survey data from 1993 to 2024, Brendan will highlight population trends for sharks and rays, revealing the effects of established Shark Sanctuaries and how citizen observers power long-term marine research.
"Why I Cave Dive When There’s No Fish: An Introduction to the World of Cave Diving" presented by Nat Gibb, Underwater Photographer and Videographer: Nat will share her journey into the thrilling world of cave diving and exploration through her captivating imagery and stories.
“Participatory Science: A Valuable Tool for Biodiversity Research” presented by Dr. Corey T. Callaghan, Assistant Professor in Wildlife Ecology & Conservation at the University of Florida: Learn how citizen science - from backyard birding to fish surveys - is transforming biodiversity research, monitoring species in real time, and informing conservation policies across ecosystems.
Be sure to drop by the Open House at the REEF Campus on Oct. 16, and join us for the Happy Hour Social between seminars on Oct. 17. You may also purchase your ticket to the For the Love of the Sea Celebration on Oct. 18. The event is hosted at a beautiful location overlooking Florida Bay, and includes appetizers, dinner, an open bar, and a silent auction. We hope to see you there!