Southeast Florida Coral Reef Initiative

If you haven't figured it out my now I love the ocean.  If I could I would spend every moment of every day next to or in it, and I want to protect the ocean and its beaches for future generation.  It seems here in Southeast Florida there are many like minded people. 

The Southeast Florida Coral Reef Initiative (SEFCRI) is a local action strategy group that works with government and independent partners to identify and impart action to help prevent the key threats the Florida's coral reefs.  The group is funded through a long line of governmental agencies flowing all the way down to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Coral Reef Conservation Program.  

Their mission is to, "To develop an effective strategy to preserve and protect southeast Florida's coral reefs and associated reef resources, emphasizing the balance between resource use and protection, in cooperation with all interested parties."

The main issues they are addressing through Local Action Strategies are

• Land sources of marine pollution
• Maritime industry and coastal development
• Proper fishing, diving, and other recreational practices
• Overall awareness and appreciation of our oceans

Their website has extensive knowledge about coral reef biology PLUS lots of lesson and activities that educators can use to educate others about these important coral reef conservation issues.  Their newest project Our Florida Reefs plans to involve community member in the planning and conservation of the Florida reefs.  This is a project I am trying to also get involved in.  I am a proud Floridian and also proud of our local corals!

I hope all of you can find your way to the coast sometime soon and see for yourself how amazing the ocean truly is!

See more of SEFCRI at:  http://www.southeastfloridareefs.net/