This summer, we’re celebrating all the ways we are making a difference for the oceans together, through citizen science, education, and research. REEF’s work is only possible with support from ocean stewards like you. We are thankful that for many years, three amazing foundations have provided matching funds to support REEF’s conservation programs. They are continuing their tradition of generosity this summer - now through August 8, all donations up to $70,000 will be matched! This means your contribution will go twice as far for marine conservation.
REEF Fest 2021 registration is now open! We hope you will join us for our annual four-day celebration of marine conservation on October 14-17 in beautiful Key Largo, Florida. REEF Fest 2021 features a fantastic lineup of ocean seminars and educational workshops, fun evening social events with plenty of food and drinks, and opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. Most REEF Fest events are free to attend, but pre-registration is requested. For complete event details and registration, please visit www.REEF.org/REEFfest.
You're invited to join in REEF’s 2021 Underwater Photography Contest! The 2021 contest features five categories: fish portrait, macro, invertebrates, REEF themed, and reefscape/habitat. Participants may submit up to three photos in each category.
Growing up to eight feet long and weighing more than 800 pounds, the Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara) is one of the largest grouper species in the world. Goliath Grouper are considered Critically Endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and have been protected from harvest in US waters since 1990, after decades of heavy fishing caused a near extinction of the species.
2021 marks the second annual REEF Fish Out of Water 5K. This article highlights some fun aspects of the event and how to participate.
REEF's Volunteer Fish Survey Project database totals almost 260,000 surveys. A small group of highly dedicated surveyors, known as the Golden Hamlet Club, have contributed significantly to this total by each conducting 1,000 or more REEF surveys. It's with great excitement that we welcome Cassandra Neal to the Golden Hamlet Club!
Introducing our June 2021 Fish of the Month, the Greater Soapfish, Rypticus saponaceus!
REEF's online programs are free and open to everyone! Here's what is coming up over the next several weeks:
Into the Blue Book Club Meeting
Thursday, June 10 at 8pm EDT
Into the Blue Book Club brings together readers who love the ocean. At this meeting, we will be discussing our June book selection, Into the Planet by legendary cave diver Jill Heinerth. Jill is also attending the meeting for a Q&A!
Register here.
We recently welcomed our Summer 2021 Marine Conservation Interns to REEF. They will support the REEF team by assisting with events, education and outreach programs, and daily operations around the REEF Campus. This semester’s interns bring a unique set of skills and interests to REEF. They include: