Urgent Funding Needed to Restore Florida’s Coral Reef
Florida’s Coral Reef is in rapid decline, with significant coral loss in recent years due to dredging, disease, bleaching, and climate impacts. Without urgent action, large portions of the reef could be lost within our lifetime.
Since 2023, Florida has invested over $28 million to build coral nurseries, grow and plant corals, and expand restoration efforts across the 350-mile reef tract. But funding for the Coral Reef Restoration and Recovery Grant Program (FCR3)—has been left out of the proposed budget.
This funding builds on existing coral programs by expanding the capacity needed to scale restoration statewide.
Without an additional $25 million investment, Florida risks losing momentum, wasting years of progress, and falling behind on its goal to restore 25% of the reef by 2050.
Coral reefs protect our coastlines, support fishing, and generate billions in tourism revenue. Delaying funding now puts both our environment and economy at risk.
