Key West is a paradise and we intend to keep it that way. One of the organizations focusing on preserving our unique natural beauty is Reef Relief. This not-for-profit organization was founded in 1987 and has become a major force in protecting and preserving the island's coral reefs.
Reef Relief organizes coastal clean-up days every year and hundreds of volunteers respond. Volunteers remove thousands of pounds of debris not only from the reefs, but also the shorelines, sea grass beds, and mangrove estuaries. During the most recent clean-up day on August 27, volunteers removed 247 pounds of marine debris from the mangroves and shoreline at Hurricane Hole. Watch my 365 Things To Do In Key West page for announcements of future clean-up events
Another project of Key West's Reef Relief is the Discover Coral Reefs School Program. This educational program uses classroom presentations, films and art to introduce fourth graders to the importance of the coral reef ecosystem. During the summer months, Reef Relief offers a unique camp experience for children ages 6-12. The campers visit areas such as NOAA's Eco-Discovery Center, the Key West Aquarium, and the Key West Wildlife Center to learn about coastal environments and their preservation.
The Reef Relief Environmental Center located at the Historic Seaport in Key West features exhibits, films, and programs that provide important education regarding coral reefs and coastal resource protection. The Center houses a diorama of a healthy coral reef and one that has been damaged. It also features a Google Earth Oceans Exhibit where visitors can see coral reefs around the world, as well as films depicting coastal environmental issues.
Education resources such as brochures, factsheets, and a Coral Reef Guide for children are available on ReefRelief.org. A Coral Reef Teacher's Guide is available with lesson plans for elementary, middle school, and high school. Incredible reef photos and a video on coral reefs are also available on the website.
Protecting the natural beauty and ecosystem of Key West is a top priority of our residents. Key West is a great place to call home, and we want to ensure that this paradise is available for many future generations to enjoy! For those of you ready to enjoy the Key West lifestyle now, I have the perfect choices for you. Give me a call: Jimmy Lane 305-766-0585 or contact me online.
photo courtesy of Reef Relief Facebook Page
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