Author: Harrison Gaunt, REEF Marine Conservation Fellow
This summer has been filled with exciting REEF Discovery Programs and Expeditions for participants of all ages. One of the most meaningful was a two-day program with the Adapt-Able Foundation, a veteran-operated nonprofit that creates opportunities for people with physical, emotional, and developmental disabilities to experience scuba diving.
On their first day at the REEF Ocean Exploration Center, participants learned about the Volunteer Fish Survey Project and practiced identifying fish commonly found in the Florida Keys. The next day, the group traveled to the Christ of the Abyss dive site in Key Largo, where the divers put their new skills to work alongside REEF staff and completed their own fish surveys.
"The positivity and enthusiasm of the Adapt-Able divers and volunteers were truly inspiring. I am so grateful to have shared this experience with them!" - Harrison Gaunt, REEF Marine Conservation Fellow
Back at the Ocean Exploration Center, participants submitted a survey together and learned about invasive lionfish and REEF's work to reduce their impact on native marine ecosystems. The program concluded with a lionfish dissection, where the group discovered both a juvenile lionfish and a sea robin in the fish's stomach.
The Adapt-Able divers and volunteers made this a truly special experience, and REEF looks forward to collaborating on more programs in the future.
Author: Tom Sparke, Communications Manager
August is National Make a Will Month, a fitting moment to think about the ocean you want to leave behind. For 36 years, REEF has protected marine life through citizen science, education, and partnerships with the scientific community. A planned gift is one of the most powerful ways to make sure that work continues for generations to come.
Including REEF in your will or estate plans is simpler than many people expect, and it costs nothing today. A gift through your will, retirement plan, or trust can also carry meaningful tax benefits for you and your family. When you let us know of your intentions, you join REEF's Legacy Society. As a Legacy Society member, you automatically become a REEF Sustainer, with invitations to private events at REEF Fest and REEF by the Sea.
We know these are personal decisions, and they often come with questions. A senior member of the REEF team would be glad to talk things through with you, confidentially and with no obligation. Whether you are just exploring the idea or ready to put plans in place. To set up a call, email giving@REEF.org or phone 305-852-0030.
And if you have already included REEF in your estate plans, we would love to hear from you. Letting us know means we can thank you properly and welcome you into our Legacy Society. Your intentions remain entirely confidential, and your gift can stay anonymous if you prefer.
You can also find bequest language, giving options, and answers to common questions on our planned giving page.
REEF is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Our tax ID number is 65-0270064. We are not able to provide legal, tax, or investment advice; please consult your own advisors before making any gift.
Author: Tom Sparke, Communications Manager
REEF Fest returns to Key Largo October 15–18, 2026, and this year's free seminar series brings an exciting lineup of scientists, naturalists, and explorers to the REEF Ocean Exploration Center. Here's a look at who's taking the stage this year alongside the REEF team.
Exploring Earth's Final Frontier: Discoveries from the Deep Ocean
Dr. Sam Purkis — Professor and Chair, Department of Marine Geosciences, University of Miami
The deep ocean remains one of the least explored places on Earth, hiding underwater mountain ranges, active volcanoes, vast coral ecosystems, and brine-filled lakes where life persists under conditions once thought impossible. Marine geologist and explorer Dr. Sam Purkis shares stories from expeditions aboard OceanX and Inkfish vessels, from the Red Sea to the Pacific and beyond. Using advanced submersibles, ROVs, and cutting-edge mapping technology, these voyages reveal how the deep sea preserves records of Earth's past. Combining science, exploration, and adventure, this presentation offers a rare glimpse into a world few people will ever see firsthand.
Something Seems Fishy: Forensic Science in Wildlife Conservation
Aisha Rickli-Rahman — Conservation Biologist
While true crime remains a popular topic in the media, wildlife crime is equally pervasive and often linked to human-based offenses. This talk examines the intersection of forensic science and wildlife conservation, exploring the methods used to solve crimes against humans and how they can be leveraged to protect the natural world. From using a single fillet to expose fraudulent fish markets to investigating toxicological events in bird populations, discover how forensic tools can pinpoint transgressions against wildlife, their habitats, and their very survival.
Fishes of the Everglades
Dr. Jennifer Rehage — Associate Professor, Institute of Environment, Florida International University
Join Dr. Jennifer Rehage for a journey into the diverse fish communities of the Everglades and South Florida, one of the most dynamic and ecologically rich systems in North America. This talk explores the species that call these waters home, the natural and human forces shaping their future, and what they reveal about the health of the ecosystem we all depend on.
Seminars are held on the second floor of the REEF Ocean Exploration Center (98380 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo, FL 33037). They are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is requested. Can't join us in person? Seminars will be livestreamed on the REEF Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Don't miss out. Register today at www.REEF.org/REEFfest.
Author: Tom Sparke, Communications Manager
A familiar face is back at REEF, and we could not be more excited to welcome her. Daisy Anderson (she/her) has rejoined the team as our newest Marine Conservation Fellow, serving from July 2026 through May 2027. Daisy first came to REEF as an Education and Conservation Intern in the summer of 2025, and we are delighted that she has returned to continue her journey with us.
Daisy graduated from James Madison University in May 2026 with a bachelor's degree in biology and a concentration in Ecology and Environmental Biology. It was during her college coursework that she discovered her love for marine biology, along with a deep passion for conservation and public outreach. Through her studies and leadership roles, she realized she wants to help bridge the gap between formal science and public understanding, especially in marine conservation. She is particularly interested in combining hands-on wildlife work with education to inspire others to care for the natural world.
Outside of work, Daisy enjoys running, reading, hiking, and playing guitar with friends and family. During her fellowship, she hopes to earn her PADI Advanced Open Water certification and continue growing her communication and conservation skills.
Please join us in welcoming Daisy back to the REEF family!
