Jay Funaro, a Marine Education & Conservation Intern at REEF this summer, was drawn to REEF by the chance to work for a nonprofit while gaining experience in the varied marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys, where coral reefs meet seagrass beds, mangroves, and even the flowing grasses of the Everglades. Jay graduated from California State University, Monterey Bay, with a B.S. in marine science, became certified as an American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS) scientific diver, and took part in multiple monitoring projects while cultivating a passion for public engagement. Jay shared a few highlights from the summer:
"This summer, I have been busy at the Ocean Exploration Center, greeting guests and introducing them to REEF's citizen science programs. Throughout the summer, REEF has hosted a variety of groups, including local schools, traveling summer camps, overnight expeditions, and more. During their visit, students learn about fish identification, the ecology of the area, the endangered Nassau Grouper (Epinephelus striatus), and the invasive lionfish. Each program then includes a hands-on activity or takes students directly into the field to apply what they have just learned.
"My favorite activity at the Center has to be identifying fish on our model reef. Students take part in a scavenger hunt-style game to try out their new fish ID skills. Whether they are already pros or have never seen the ocean, the model reef is a showstopper. It is always exciting to see students' joy when they find our resident Rusty Goby (Priolepis hipoliti), a fish only the size of their pinky nail!
"One of my favorite days was spent working with students in grades K–6 at a local summer camp. The students learned all about invasive lionfish and took part in a mock derby, collecting lionfish from around the building just like we do on the reef. They stood at the door as I briefed them on their 'dive,' and I loved seeing firsthand how powerful this game can be.
"Still, my favorite days are out in the field. Groups have the opportunity to put their newfound ID skills to the test on a guided snorkel or dive as participants in the Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Not only do these expeditions connect young people with a cause and let them contribute valuable citizen science data, they are also a fantastic opportunity to get out on the water. Living near the ocean doesn't always mean that local kids, or visitors, have the chance to go out on a boat and see the wildlife for themselves. It has been such a wonderful experience seeing the kids light up as they spot a new species and find their new favorite fish!"
Even when we're not in the water, there are always ways to connect with our programs, and our interns are continually expanding the presentations and activities REEF offers. To learn more about REEF's Ocean Explorers Programs or the Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo, visit www.REEF.org/oec or email explorers@REEF.org.