This November 16th marks the official birthday
of the FloridaKeys Marine Sanctuary, which was established in 1990 to protect the world’s third largest barrier reef and the surrounding
islands. The waters off our shores in the Keys are one of the main attractions
for residents and visitors alike. The established management of the Marine
Sanctuary helps to ensure the marine life and features are protected and
provides an ideal way to educate the public about the wonders of life among the
coral. The sanctuary has also helped ensure water sports enthusiasts can
continue to visit and play in our small piece of paradise. The work done by NOAA and the State of Florida has culminated in a
beautiful scenic part of our region worth celebrating.
The Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary covers 2,900 square nautical miles of water, running from Biscayne National Park all the way to
the Dry Tortugas which lie to the
west of Key West. This special refuge protects more than just fish. There are
historical and archeological treasures spread throughout, from shipwrecks and downed planes to natural features such as mangroves and seagrass beds.
Within all these zones of the barrier reef, there are over 6,000 species of marine life. It is these features which draw
people by the thousands to our islands, and it continues to be sustained with
the existence of the Marine Sanctuary. Because we care about the delicate
ecosystem of the reef, those working within the sanctuary have been able to
successfully attract eco-conscious
visitors who, in turn, help educate others beyond our borders.
The Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary is for those who live here as much as it
is for visitors. We have every reason to be proud of the care given to this
natural treasure, and I encourage everyone to spend some time enjoying all that
it has to offer. This is an ideal location to dive or snorkel, swim, fish, go kayaking or even paddle boarding. For some,
it could serve as inspiration to move here and join the Keys way of life
permanently. The next time you spend the day at the sanctuary, look for the Blue Star logo on businesses that
offer recreational activities. This program provides rules and regulations to
follow when enjoying all that the reef offers in ways that are not harmful to
the environment and marine life. Through supporting business that are a part of
the Blue Star program, we all support responsible tourism and conservation.
To celebrate the incredible achievements over
the last 25 years, the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary will have a familyfestival on
Sunday November 8th at the
Islander Resort at Mile Marker 82.1 Oceanside in Islamorada. The festival
will run from 1-5 p.m. and admission
is free. There will be a
Conservation Village with games and fun, a fishing clinic on the pier, guest
speakers to share the history and stories of the sanctuary, live music, and a
pig roast for all to enjoy. If you are ready to buy a home, there are many
options available as well. If you’re ready to sell or buy a home in the
Key West area, please contact me, JimmyLane,
for all of your real estate needs.
Labels: Blue Star Program, Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary, jimmy lane
