A group of dedicated students from Miami-Dade County have taken their passion for marine conservation to new depths. After achieving SCUBA certification in March, these students completed their first coral restoration dive, contributing to vital efforts to protect and rebuild coral reefs. Using a grant provided by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), this initiative highlights the power of education and community action in preserving marine ecosystems.
The project was made possible through a collaboration with iCare, an organization committed to restoring the Florida reef track coral ecosystems, and Amoray Dive Center, a premier provider of diving experiences and marine education in the Florida Keys. Equipped with the knowledge and skills gained through their SCUBA training, these students worked alongside iCare experts to maintain coral fragments which had already been planted onto degraded reef structures, thereby fostering biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
In addition to this milestone, Jr Scientists in the Sea (JSIS) will be certifying 50 students from Miami-Dade County as part of their ongoing efforts to empower local youth. These students will form a dedicated workforce to care for the reef systems in and around Miami Dade and Monroe Counties, ensuring long-term protection and restoration of these vital marine ecosystems. The second group of students has already been chosen and will begin their SCUBA training this Saturday. New groups are continuously being selected, with the only requirement being Miami-Dade residency.
“We are proud of these students for taking an active role in preserving our oceans,” said Les Burke, Founder of Jr Scientists in the Sea. “Their dedication and hard work are making a tangible impact on the health of marine ecosystems in Florida.”
Coral reefs are a critical component of the ocean’s biodiversity, providing habitat for countless marine species and protecting coastlines from erosion. With restoration efforts gaining momentum in recent years, the involvement of young individuals is vital for ensuring the longevity and success of these initiatives.
This monumental dive is the first of many planned activities aimed at empowering the next generation of aquatic stewards in Miami-Dade County and south Florida.
For further information about the program and how you can get involved, please visit https://jsisinc.org or contact Jr Scientists in the Sea at info@jsisinc.org.
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