Florida is the only state in the lower 48 with extensive shallow coral reef formations near the coast. The world has lost half of its coral reefs since the 1950s, and this is disastrous for the ecosystem as a whole.
Florida is taking steps to combat coral reef destruction. This can be difficult when so much of Florida’s economy relies on tourism, much of which is ocean-focused. This also, however, makes coral reef conservation all the more important so Florida remains beautiful.
We’re here to discuss some of the efforts that Florida officials and volunteers are making to promote coral reef awareness and protect coral reef habitats. Read on to learn more.
Florida Coral Reef Conservation Program
Florida does have a coral reef conservation program of its own. It works with a variety of other organizations to coordinate responses to vessel and anchor damage incidents (and prevent future incidents in the future).
This organization also aims to educate residents and tourists. They create educational videos, resources for students, and so much more.
NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) doesn’t just work with Florida reefs, but because Florida is the only area of the continental United States with extensive coral reefs, their efforts are largely concentrated there.
Their goals are to increase coral’s resistance to climate change, restore coral populations, and reduce pollution. They also offer a variety of educational resources.
While they’re based in North America, they work all over the world for coral sustainability.
Friends of Our Florida Reefs
Friends of Our Florida Reefs (FOFR) is a nonprofit organization that aims to support the efforts of the Florida Coral Reef Conservation Program. Residents of Florida can volunteer to protect the reefs.
There are a variety of ways that people can help out. There are donation opportunities, coral reef cleanup opportunities, discovery and education days, and more.
FOFR aims to educate as many Floridians as possible about the importance of our great coral reefs!
Florida Reef Resilience Program
The FRRP is a long-running coral monitoring program in Florida. The program works to spread information about coral reefs in Florida, reduce negative impacts, and track the overall health of the reefs.
The FRRP has worked alongside the teams that work to protect the Great Barrier Reef to share information and continue important research that can help both important reef systems.
The FFRP partners with a variety of other conservation programs and systems, including (but not limited to):
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Dry Tortugas National Park
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Florida’s Coral Reef Habitats Are Crucial
Florida is lucky to have such a beautiful coral reef system nearby. Coral reef conservation efforts will keep the reef healthy for years to come.
A variety of conservation programs come together to serve a single purpose. They want to keep the reef thriving. Do you want to get involved?
Are you interested in buying a home in the Florida Keys? Come enjoy the coral reefs and the beauty of the area. Check out our property listings to find your new home.