Last month, REEF’s Explorers Education Program had the pleasure of working with two collegiate groups in Key Largo, Florida. Each group of students spent one fun-filled week working alongside REEF staff and interns to learn about TWA (Tropical Western Atlantic) fish identification and the REEF survey method. The first group was nine students from Georgia State University, accompanied by their professor, Dr. Amy Reber. This weeklong education program has become an annual component of Georgia State's marine ecology course.
Congratulations to Fred Hartner, who recently joined the Golden Hamlet Club! This distinguished group is made up of highly dedicated volunteers who have conducted 1,000 or more REEF surveys as part of the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project.
Caroly's Notes: Ocean Connections
This summer, we've been making waves in the Florida Keys and beyond, with plenty of engaging education programs and outreach events. Our team of staff and interns led 39 educational programs this summer. From teaching weekly fish ID classes at John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo to programs for schools, clubs, dive shops, and more, it has been a jam-packed and fun season. Our summer Ocean Explorers Education Programs offered participants the chance to dive into citizen science with snorkeling and diving excursions, fish ID classes, and even lionfish jewelry making.
We’re excited to introduce our Spring 2020 Marine Conservation Interns. These individuals will support the REEF team in mission-oriented tasks and daily office operations at REEF Headquarters, as well as play an integral role in many education and outreach opportunities, including the first Lionfish Derby of the year. This semester’s interns bring a unique set of skills and interests to REEF. They include:
All are invited to join us for REEF Fest 2021 on October 14-17 in Key Largo, Florida! REEF Fest is the perfect opportunity to experience the underwater world of the Florida Keys by diving, snorkeling, or kayaking. You can join REEF staff and marine life experts on the mornings of Friday, October 15 and Saturday, October 16, as we explore diverse ocean habitats like coral reefs and mangrove trails.
The Great Annual Fish Count (GAFC) is just two months away! Held each July, the GAFC is an initiative to encourage divers and snorkelers to participate in the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project. This is a great way for anyone to get involved in citizen science and learn more about marine life by joining in ID classes and group dives. It's easy and fun to participate in the GAFC,. To get started, check out the FAQs below.
We are now accepting applications for the Spring 2022 REEF Marine Conservation Internship. Program dates are January 10-May 13, 2022. The application deadline is September 19, 2021. Visit www.REEF.org/internship for complete details and to apply.
Have you checked out REEF’s new Science Discovery Classroom? This purpose-built education space inside the Ocean Exploration Center in Key Largo invites guests of all ages to explore marine science in a fun and welcoming environment. Designed to spark curiosity from the moment you step inside, the Science Discovery Classroom features a floor-to-ceiling reef scene on glass panels, offering a stunning backdrop and a glimpse of the learning and discovery happening within.
If you haven't planned your summer vacation yet, it's not too late to join a REEF Field Survey Trip this August. We have spaces remaining on trips to Brazil and Belize this summer and hope you can join us!