REEF Coastal Conservation Initiative

The REEF Coastal Conservation Initiative is a grant agreement between the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the REEF Environmental Education Foundation, funded by DOC/NOAA. The project aims to promote awareness and appreciation of Florida's diverse habitats and marine life by engaging Monroe County residents, specifically students, educators, and adult residents, in marine education and hands-on stewardship efforts. By empowering the local community to protect coastal resources through engaging activities, the initiative seeks to ensure the long-term care and protection of vital ecosystems in the Florida Keys. The contract, identified by solicitation number CZ816, involves total obligated federal funds of 29,496.00 dollars. Following its initial execution in November 2025, the agreement was updated via Amendment No. 1 in January 2026 to revise the Federal Award Identification Number and update the Grant Work Plan. This amendment specifically expanded the project scope to include the REEF Fest Annual Celebration of Marine Conservation Festival as part of the initiative's tasks.