Photo by NM Stewart

Welcome to the Citizen Science Corner, our quarterly feature to celebrate those who recently reached a milestone in our Volunteer Fish Survey Project. Here are achievements from January, February and March 2026.

Ultra Golden Hamlet Award

The Ultra Golden Hamlet Award is for individuals who have conducted at least 2000 surveys. Congratulations to our newest achiever! Click here to see other Ultra Golden Hamlet Award achievers.

Discover one of the Caribbean’s most biodiverse underwater worlds at Tayrona National Park, where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the sea. The park’s unique geography creates a rare mix of coral reefs, rocky formations, and seagrass beds that support an incredible variety of marine life. Nutrient-rich currents flowing along Colombia’s coast bring food that attracts vibrant reef fish, sea turtles, rays, and countless invertebrates. The surrounding protected jungle and coastline reduce pollution and create a healthier habitat for underwater biodiversity.

REEF is proud to share that a generous grant from United Way of Collier and the Keys made it possible for free bus transportation for 300 students from Key Largo School to visit the REEF Ocean Exploration Center for hands-on educational field trips as part of REEF's Ocean For All program. Check out this highlight film!

Photo by Marco Salas

*We have had a lot of interest in this trip, and our accommodations are currently full. We are in the process of adding additional accommodations to open up a few more spaces. If you are interested, please inquire with trips@REEF.org, and we will follow up once details have been secured.

This eco-adventure includes diving or snorkeling with Costa Rica's marine life as well as land-based tours through their vibrant tropical rainforests. The itinerary has 4 days of diving/snorkeling (including 2-dives/day) to conduct REEF surveys, as well as land tours in Monteverde exploring the land side of this amazing destination. Enjoy hanging bridge tours, sloths, and a hike through a cloud forest. This weeklong family-friendly expedition welcomes divers and non-divers alike and has something for everyone.

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