Rescue a Reef program

The University of Miami (UM) Rosenstiel School's coral restoration program designed to build community and coastal resilience through coral reef research, conservation, and citizen science. Our UM research lab uses strong, science-based techniques to grow threatened coral species in land and offshore nurseries to create a sustainable source of healthy coral colonies for use in active reef restoration. These gardened coral populations are also utilized to drive world-leading research in coastal protection, reef recovery, and climate resiliency. To further advance our efforts, the Rescue a Reef program was developed in 2015 to raise public awareness and action on coral conservation through educational and experiential activities.This includes hosting citizen science field expeditions led by UM coral researchers that provide a unique, hands-on opportunity for recreational SCUBA divers and snorkelers to participate directly in our coral restoration efforts! Through these citizen science expeditions, participants learn about the critical role coral reefs play in our environment and economy, threats they face, and tools available for their conservation and recovery; all the while conducting real-world coral research. We would love to have you join our team!