Pictured front row l-r; Rob Bleser, Sara Rankin, Stephen Frink, Stephanie Scuderi. Back row l-r; Steven Smith, Russell Post, Kurt Tidd, Ian Koblick, Tom Davidson, Jr., Jodi Zifferer, Sarah Fangman, Nick Davies, Les Burke. Not pictured: Piper Smith.
VOLUNTEERS DO NOT NECESSARILY HAVE THE TIME;
THEY HAVE THE HEART
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FLORIDA KEYS NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARY
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Foundation is governed by an impactful Board of Directors, representing Keys communities and industries, with a mission to foster stewardship of the Florida Keys marine ecosystem by engaging private, public and governmental entities, promoting advocacy, and supporting Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s programs and partnerships. At the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, we invite people with a stake in our ocean to work with us to conserve it. The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary sustains miraculous species, our coastal communities, and our way of life. Working in close partnership with NOAA, the many people and businesses in our communities who depend on and care for the sanctuary support programs to restore the marine ecosystem and advocate for its health. Currently, the chapter supports marine debris removal through Goal: Clean Seas Florida Keys and the Blue
Star Program for diving and snorkeling tour operators and fishing guides as well as funding towards Mission: Iconic Reefs. Another key area of funding focus for the foundation is expanding the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s pioneering buoy and marker infrastructure to support sustainable recreational and commercial use, as well as facilitate use by our coral restoration partners. Increasing awareness and developing stakeholder support for the Keys’ marine environment and management is a priority as well. As the advocacy arm of the sanctuary, we actively participate in congressional visits and interactions. Community involvement is vital to us! Please join us as we celebrate and support our pristine sanctuary at Save Spectacular, a memorable evening recognizing achievement and resilience of our Keys Community. (See information on page 67).
