REEF Fest is an annual event for ocean lovers. It includes free educational presentations, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, nature tours, and socials. It's all happening on October 19-22 in Key Largo, Florida. You can check out all the details at www.REEF.org/REEFfest. We're excited to welcome an amazing lineup of guest speakers this year, including:

  • John Claydon, Ph.D., Executive Director, Integrated Marine Biosphere Research, who will discuss seafood mislabeling and the impact this has on grouper conservation.
  • Alex Troutman, NOAA Knauss Fellow with the Fish and Aquatic Conservation Program, who will share stories of his work in the field, while highlighting the importance of providing accessible ocean experiences and connections for historically-excluded and marginalized communities.
  • Martin Russell, Manager, Coral Sea Marine Park, Australia, who will talk about management, research, and protections for the pristine reefs and islands of Australia's Coral Sea Marine Park.
  • Jason Belport, Underwater Photographer, who will share a firsthand account of the challenges and hopes for the marine ecosystems of the Cayman Islands, as well as a photographic journey from dive travels around the world.
  • Christy Semmens, Ph.D., REEF Co-Executive Director: Science and Engagement, and Brice Semmens, Ph.D., Professor, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, who will celebrate of three decades of the REEF Volunteer Fish Survey Project, and share updates on REEF's conservation science work.

These free ocean seminars will take place at Murray Nelson Government Center on Oct. 20 and 21. You can also explore the amazing marine environments of the Florida Keys by joining in a snorkel or dive charter, or booking a kayak eco-tour during REEF Fest. Limited space is available, so be sure to eco-excursions soon because spaces are filling up quickly! Be sure to drop by the Open House at the REEF Campus on Oct. 19, and join us for the REEF Fest Happy Hour Social on Oct. 20. You may also purchase your ticket to the For the Love of the Sea Celebration on Oct. 21. The event is hosted at a beautiful location overlooking Florida Bay, and includes dinner from one of South Florida's top caterers, an open bar, live music, and a silent auction. We hope to see you there!