SAVING A REEF

by Ginny
(Florida Keys, USA)

I live on a tropical island in the USA. It is protected from storms by a reef about twelve miles out to sea. Not long ago I went on the local glass bottom boat along with a group of hotel concierges. We sat there staring through the glass at the murky water and a wasteland of dead coral absent of brightly colored tropical fish.

Appalled at the condition of the obviously dying reef, I asked the captain why on earth he would be taking people out to look at this awful sight. He really had no reply other than to tell me, "It's better now. You should'a seen it a few years ago!" Speechless, I now saw for myself what the pollution of the sea water had been doing to the reef.

The "few years ago" the captain recalled was probably before the Federal government forced the city to stop spewing their sewage directly into near shore waters and put in a waste treatment plant. Unfortunately, at about the same time, the city began allowing larger and more numerous cruise ships to dock at their tiny pier. The diesel fuel and other elements from these monsters that wind up in the near shore waters certainly are not helping the reef return to its former beauty.

Luckily there is an organization that has been trying to do something to save the reef. Reef Relief, (https://www.reefrelief.org/) and other organizations like it around the country, need financial help from the Obama Administration. Unfortunately for groups like this, the current economic situation will most likely reduce funds rather than increasing them.

Barry's Response - Allocations will be made as the administration sees fit. Everything won't get what it deserves.

I would like to express my sympathies to you and your fellow island residents who are witnessing the decline of a once vibrant and thriving coral reef.

Pollution is destroying such a beautiful and fragile ecosystem.

- The glass bottom boat was a powerful reminder of why we need to protect our oceans and coral reefs. Environmental challenges are starkly illustrated by the contrast between the current situation and the captain's memory.

- I'm glad organizations like Reef Relief are working hard to preserve and restore coral reefs. There's no doubt that their dedication and efforts are admirable, and it's vital that they get the support they need.

- Even small contributions can make a difference, even in this tough economy. We can protect and restore our oceans by spreading awareness, supporting organizations like Reef Relief, and advocating for sustainable practices.

- Your story and learning about organizations making a positive impact on the planet are both inspiring and motivating. To protect our natural resources, we need to be informed and take action.

- Explore the website of Reef Relief (https://www.reefrelief.org/) THIS website StuffintheAir.com and other similar organizations to learn more about their initiatives, challenges, and how we can help, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness.

Together, we can help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of our oceans for future generations. I appreciate you sharing your experience and reminding us how important it is to protect our oceans.

Reefs matter. Here's a beauty:




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