Friends of Our Florida Reefs Partners with NSU to Install a New Living Florida’s Coral Reef Exhibit at the Marine Environmental Education Center

To better educate the public about the wonders, beauty, and threats to Florida’s coastal water ecosystems, several notable organizations are partnering to add the first of three large exhibit tanks by the popular “Captain” Sea Turtle Pool at the Marine Environmental Education Center (MEEC). Focusing on Florida’s Coral Reef, the first 300+ gallon tank is anticipated to be up and running by early 2021. This coral reef exhibit will feature live native corals, fish, and invertebrates. Two additional exhibit tanks are planned to focus on the critical importance of mangroves and sea grasses.

“This project fits right in with the mission of the MEEC,” said Derek Burkholder, Ph.D., Halmos College research scientist and director of the MEEC. “Educating the public about our marine environments is vital and by bringing attention to the plight of our coral reefs, we’re adding a new dimension to our outreach efforts.”

Initial funding was spearheaded by the regional nonprofit organization, Friends of Our Florida Reefs (FOFR – www.floridareef.org). Generous donors have already committed $7,500 to FOFR to kick start a challenge match campaign for the exhibit. By the end of 2020, FOFR hopes to contribute at least $15,000 depending upon additional public donations towards the budget for the living coral reef tank and detailed informational signage.

The MEEC was opened with the desire to educate and delight locals and tourists alike through our educational green sea turtle, Captain, and the splendor of the coastal environment in South Florida. The MEEC was fostered from a partnership between Broward County Parks and Recreation and Nova Southeastern University. The facility is located on the historic grounds of the Carpenter House at Hollywood North Beach Park in Hollywood, Florida.