The Ocean.......a wild and awe inspiring body. It provides us with so much beauty, food, and helps sustain life on Mother Earth. An ecosystem that is as fragile as the rainforests. Our coral reefs are now being threatened unless we all do our part to help save them. Many people think that reefs are just plants in the ocean that are there for the taking. This could not be further from the truth. They are tiny animal life that thrives in clear, sunny, clean ocean waters. There are many issues that affect the health of our coral reefs. Climate change, pollution, illegal harvesting of coral, and ignorance.

Florida has the third largest Barrier Reef in the world and the only living coral barrier reef in the Continental US. It stretches from Miami to the Dry Tortugas. Many tourist come to the Florida Keys to snorkel and dive the reef. Did you know that the slightest touch can kill coral, opening it up to infection. One thing you can do is educate yourself about not touching, standing, or coming in physical contact with coral. Take pictures not pieces!

There are so many things that effect our reef. If we want it around for generations to come we need to protect it. Do something about it like join your local Environmental chapter that helps with our reefs. Educate your children and they intern will educate future generations to come. We all need to do our part in protecting the planet before it is to late. We as a human race do have the power and the knowledge to do this...........so what are you waiting for get out there and help!

Surfdog