Protect Southeast Florida's Coral Reefs

This bill (HB 53) established the Southeast Florida Coral Reef Ecosystem Conservation Area so that the reef can be studied and protected from coral disease and bleaching. The new conservation area is sited next to the already established Biscayne National Park in an attempt to maximize the benefits of protecting intact and neighboring coral reef ecosystems to prevent further degradation to this vital resource.

“Protecting the reef system is critical to Florida’s future for so many reasons and we are grateful that Governor Scott agrees and has signed this bill.  Our reefs provide a physical protective barrier to the mainland, offer billions of dollars in economic vitality and of course, an abundance and amazing variety of seafood,” said Senator Lauren Book, sponsor of the corresponding Senate bill.  “This is an exciting and important beginning to restoring this critical part of our environment and economy.”

Learn more about this important victory here.