In April 2018, two non-native marine fish species were live-captured from South Florida waters, including an Orangespine Unicornfish (Naso lituratus) in Key Largo and a Lagoon Triggerfish (Rhinecanthus aculeatus) in Fort Lauderdale. Both fishes, native to a wide range in the tropical west Pacific, were collected separately through a collaborative effort between REEF, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, and the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
We hope you can join us in Key Largo for REEF Fest 2019 sponsored by Capital Bank Foundation, on Oct. 17-20! REEF Fest is an annual four-day celebration to acknowledge the success of marine conservation and education initiatives in the Florida Keys. Events include educational ocean-themed seminars, social gatherings, diving, and eco-adventures alongside some of the most prestigious names in diving and marine conservation. All REEF Fest events are open to the public, but pre-registration is requested.
REEF members are at the heart of our grassroots marine conservation programs. More than 65,000 divers, snorkelers, students, and armchair naturalists stand behind our mission.
Have you marked your calendar for REEF Fest? REEF Fest 2019 sponsored by Capital Bank Foundation is coming up on Oct. 17-20 in Key Largo, Florida! This annual four-day celebration includes educational ocean-themed seminars, social gatherings, diving, and eco-adventures alongside some of the most prestigious names in diving and marine conservation. All REEF Fest events are open to the public, but pre-registration is requested.
REEF volunteers are the heart of our organization. We are so appreciative of everyone who dedicates time, support, and resources to help us fulfill our marine conservation mission. We are very proud to announce Laurie Brooks as our 2018 Volunteer of the Year!
Education is a core part of REEF's marine conservation mission. From elementary school classes to adult travel groups, we offer programs for all ages and backgrounds through the REEF Ocean Explorers Education Program. Participants can join in both online and in person, and learn about topics like fish identification, citizen science, marine life behavior, invasive species, endangered species, sustainable fisheries, and Florida Keys ecology.
We’re excited to introduce our Spring 2019 Marine Conservation Interns. These individuals will support the REEF team in mission-oriented tasks and daily office operations, as well as play an integral role in the many education and outreach programs that take place throughout the spring semester. They will also have opportunities to scuba dive, conduct fish surveys, and volunteer with environmental organizations in South Florida and the Florida Keys. This semester’s interns bring diverse skills and interests to REEF. They include:
REEF’s in-person programming is on hold for now, so here are some upcoming marine conservation programs that you can join from home. These programs are free and open to the public. To view all upcoming programs, visit www.REEF.org/events.
Fish Face-To-Face: Tropical Western Atlantic
Thursday, October 8 at 8 PM EDT
Click here to register.
REEF is proud to highlight Scuba Center, a Conservation Partner in Minnesota. REEF Conservation Partners are organizations and dive shops committed to protecting marine environments worldwide. As valued REEF ambassadors, they serve as centers for marine conservation actions, outreach, and education. You can view the full listing of Conservation Partners or register your organization as a REEF Conservation Partner here.
This article highlights some of the ways that the Upper Keys community has adressed the invasive lionfish, including REEF's 8th Annual Earth Day "Locals" Lionfish Derby held on April 23-25, 2021 in Key Largo.