Mexico Beach Artificial Reef Association Inc

Artificial Reef Building: Build artificial reefs off the coast of Mexico Beach, FL.

Research: Performed artificial reef surveys to determine stability of reefs and marine biomass. Provided surveys to the Army Corp of Engineers, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Bay County, Reef Environmental Education Foundation, and the City of Mexico Beach. Completed numerous lionfish and goliath grouper reports to USGS and universities. Catalogued local marine life in photographs and video in addition to the surveys. Provided specimens identification. Provided photos to marine biologists, including the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.

Education: Provided public education on the value of artificial reefs and the need to provide habitat on the otherwise featureless bottom in this part of the Gulf of Mexico through newspaper and magazine articles and personal appearances. Provided information through newsletter, Facebook and website. Assisted with online fish identification classes hosted by REEF.org. Spoke at artificial reef seminar, fundraising events, dive clubs, and library. Provided underwater fish identification photos for free Apps to help divers and fishermen identify species.