Mission

 

 The Coral Restoration Foundation (CRF) is a 501 c (3) non-profit conservation organization dedicated to restoring coral reefs.  We promote hands-on salvage of orphaned coral fragments and short-term care and growth in permitted offshore nursery sites. CRF is the continuation of a successful staghorn coral nursery and transplantation program initiated by Ken Nedimyer in the Florida Keys and the result of the re-organization of the former Keys Marine Conservancy.  Our primary projects include:

 

·        Development and enhancement of Elkhorn and Staghorn coral nurseries (Acropora palmata and A. cervicornis, both of which are federally listed as Threatened Species)

·        Restoration of damaged reef areas by transplanting nursery reared corals

·        Restoration of degraded coral reef sites by transplantation of nursery reared corals

·        Transplantation of long-spined sea-urchins (Diadema antillarum) to enhance coral health and success of coral transplantation

·        Education programs for students and the general public on coral health, nursery and transplantation issues

·        Hands on opportunities for divers and students to engage in coral restoration activities

·        Sharing of knowledge and techniques with other agencies and organizations in efforts to successfully build partnership projects

 

In addition to ongoing nursery and restoration activities, CRF will be hosting weeklong volunteer learning and restoration projects as well as 6-month internship programs.

 

 

The Coral Restoration Foundation is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization and as such any contributions may be tax deductible to the full extent of the law.