Reef Environmental Education Foundation’s (REEF) new Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation will open later this year. Located at the REEF campus in Key Largo, the public is invited to join a grand opening celebration on June 7-8, coinciding with World Ocean Day.
This 4,000-square-foot, two-story facility will serve as a hub for marine conservation, education and citizen science. Designed to inspire ocean stewardship for all ages, the center will feature interactive exhibits and a science discovery classroom. There will also be galleries dedicated to ocean exploration, scientific innovation and the intersection of history, humanities and the arts.
“The Ocean Exploration Center is more than just a building — it’s a launchpad for future ocean stewards, a collaborative space for scientific research, and a place where visitors can explore how they can make a difference for the marine environment,” said Martha Klitzkie, co-executive director of REEF.
The center will highlight conservation success stories and equip people with the tools to help protect our ocean. It will complement the current REEF facilities, including an historic conch-style building — the oldest building in the Upper Keys still in its original location — which now houses REEF’s campus administration. In addition, the Reefscape Room features a floor-to-ceiling mural showcasing marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys, along with the Native Plants Trail, an outdoor oasis with a variety of native flora, educational signs and seating areas.
The grand opening event will include family-friendly activities, interactive exhibits, educational demos, food and drinks. More information is at www.reef.org/oecgrandopening.
Thanks to donors, REEF has raised 93% of the $6 million needed to bring the Ocean Exploration Center to life. Now, a $100,000 challenge grant from REEF members Byron and Sheila Bishop will match new donations and pledges made before June 30.
Donor recognition opportunities include personalized plaques, gallery naming and more. While REEF welcomes support at any time, to ensure that recognition is in place for the grand opening, gifts or pledges should be confirmed by Friday, Feb. 28.
More donation information is at www.reef.org/oec-support or via email to giving@REEF.org.
