The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and Nova Southeastern University, has changed the design of the Port of Miami Anchorage Area to better protect more than 600 acres of ecologically and economically important coral reef.
The port modification allows boats to safely maneuver and park without causing damage to the coral reefs, which are home to approximately 45 coral species and 305 fish species, some of them endangered. The reef system also provides more than 70,000 jobs and $6.4 billion annually to Florida’s economy.
The conservation effort reportedly demonstrates how stakeholders of all types can come together to protect a vital ecosystem.
