We are excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Educator in the Field Fellowship! This unique opportunity invites one exceptional educator to join the REEF Field Survey Trip to Bonaire on July 11–18, 2026, for an immersive week of marine conservation, citizen science, and hands-on learning. Through the Fellowship, educators gain firsthand experience in fish identification, data collection, and marine research methods. The selected Fellow may participate in the trip as a diver or snorkeler.
Introducing our October Fish of the Month, the Longnose Filefish, Oxymonacanthus longirostris!
REEF Fest is nearly here, and we couldn't be more excited for our annual marine conservation celebration in Key Largo! If you're planning to attend, we look forward to seeing you soon. If you haven't yet registered, you can still make plans to join us Oct 16-19 for ocean presentations, fun socials, and more. Check out all the details and register for REEF Fest at www.REEF.org/REEFfest.
We are thrilled to welcome Chesley Davis to the REEF team as Director of Learning and Engagement. Based at the REEF Campus in Key Largo, FL, Chesley brings a passion for teaching environmental science through hands-on learning experiences. In her role, Chesley oversees REEF Ocean Explorers education programs, helping to connect learners of all ages with marine science and conservation. She also supports community outreach and educational initiatives at the new Ocean Exploration Center.
KEY LARGO, FLA. – Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF) invites all to join a vibrant weekend of ocean conservation, citizen science, and community engagement at REEF Fest, taking place on October 16–19, 2025, in Key Largo, Florida.
Join us for REEF Fest! October 16-19, 2025 in Key Largo, Florida
REEF Fest 2025 registration is now open! We hope you will join us for the 10th anniversary of this event, which includes ocean seminars, socials, and opportunities to explore the Florida Keys. Divers, snorkelers, and ocean lovers attend REEF Fest to celebrate their love of marine life and learn about the latest in conservation. To learn more and see the full schedule, visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest.
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.
Join REEF’s upcoming Field Survey Trip to Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen), Cuba, on June 27-July 4, 2026! This protected marine park is one of the Caribbean’s most pristine ecosystems, where divers regularly encounter large snapper, grouper, and sharks among vibrant, healthy coral reefs. Surveyors will also have the rare opportunity to spot the dazzling Golden Fairy Basslet while contributing valuable data to REEF’s marine conservation efforts.
Educators - are you looking to elevate your next field trip? Invite a REEF marine scientist to virtually join your group for a Q&A! REEF’s Virtual Field Trips (available for grades 3 to high school) include a scientist visit, in which a REEF staff member meets virtually with your class to provide an interactive session for your students or club. Virtual Field Trips are free and include a variety of resources such as handouts and worksheets to ensure that your lessons meet educational standards.