We met an enthusiastic and dedicated individual at the Blue Wild Ocean Adventure Expo, Aubree Zenone, who was an excellent ambassador for the department as well as our oceans and reefs. She gave us all kinds of information very relevant to coral reef preservation and conservation. A topic that is close to our hearts.
In 2000, the U.S. Coral Reef Task Force adopted a national action plan to conserve coral reefs. Read more about this important initiative
Florida has a Coral Reef Protection Act, which went into effect in 2009 and is aimed at boaters to help educate and hold them responsible for coral reef damage through fines. You can get more information on the site
It’s a big ocean and they can use our help, if you see a violation or know of a vessel grounding or coral reef injury you can report it at 1-866-770-SEFL (7335) or on line at www.seafan.net
Boaters can even take advantage of numerous anchored buoys that have been attached to the reefs and a list can be obtained here
This map shows local mooring buoys that have been attached to local reefs with the intention of preventing boaters from having to throw anchor and risk damaging the reef further, check out the maps and just go to the specified GPS coordinates and tie up to the already provided buoy. You can even get this on an app for your phone; look for ArcGIS by ESRI on your app store and search for the Southeast Florida Coral Reef Locator.
The FDEP does so many things, just have a look at their Citizen Quick Reference Guide. That said, we can only hope that there will be continued funding for these all important initiatives. Thanks for spreading the word Aubree!