FLORIDA KEYS ECO-TOURISM Find Eco Tours and Guides here in our Visitor's Directory | Each year, scores of visitors come to the Keys to experience natural beauty and surroundings like no where else in the world. Unfortunately, as the Keys grow in popularity, so does the chance for harm to its delicate ecosystem. | | The coral reefs draws over six million visitors a year to the Florida Keys. Divers and snorkelers are enticed by their beauty, and fishermen are attracted by the abundant fishing spots, but this popularity is now jeopardizing its vitality. The living coral reef is the most diverse marine ecosystem in the world and is in constant need of protection. The careless toss of an anchor can destroy years of coral growth in just minutes. Monofilament line and trash wrapped around delicate corals can break them. Even the slightest touch by snorkelers and divers can kill sensitive coral polyps, exposing the entire colony to the spread of algae or diseases. | | | | The Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary has developed a mooring buoy system to preserve the reefs and reduce anchor damage by novice boaters. Open to the public for free and on a first-come-first-serve basis, the buoys are clearly marked and all are located at good dive sites located throughout the Sanctuary. The mooring buoy brochure, distributed daily by Sanctuary officers, is also available at the Sanctuary office and can be found at numerous dive shops and motels throughout Key Largo. | | ECO-GROUPS: There are several other groups organized to preserve and protect our natural resources, and they need your help. REEF RELIEF, a Key West-based, non-profit conservation group organized to "Preserve and Protect the Living Coral Reef of the Florida Keys" THE FLORIDA KEYS WILD BIRD CENTER, a organization whose primary goals are the rescue, rehabilitation and release of ill, injured and orphaned wild birds . | | 
"The Proud Parents" by Christi Mathews
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