Reefs for the Future - Nova Southeastern University

Location
Information
Author Index Oral and Poster Exhibits
Program
General
Special
Presentations
Information Recognitions
Co-Hosts (continued)
STATE OF FLORIDA
With the longest coastline of the
48 contiguous states, 41 aquatic
preserves and three of the nation’s
National Estuarine Research Reserves,
Florida is undeniably an
ocean state. Over the last five
years, Florida has established the
benchmark for ocean protection
by significantly restricting offshore
drilling, establishing the Tortugas
Ecological Reserve as one of the
largest marine reserves in the
world, creating a “no-discharge
zone” in the Florida Keys National
Marine Sanctuary and developing
partnerships with the cruise ship
and marine industries to improve
environmental management practices.
Upgrading wastewater systems
and acquiring land in the
Florida Keys is also protecting the
third largest barrier reef in the
world.
ATTRIBUTES:
• The only barrier reef system in North America.
• Most extensive potential coral reef ecosystems in the
U.S.
• Highly visited and utilized reefs.
• Large research data base.
• South Florida easily accessible international
destination: 3 gateway airports.
• Degradation, common to the world’s reefs.
• Significant economic impact.
• Intensive management.
12 11 th International Coral Reef Symposium ■ Reefs for the Future