Coral Rescue Efforts Underway After Vessel Groundings in Upper Keys

Coral Rescue Efforts Underway After Vessel Groundings in Upper Keys

UPPER FLORIDA KEYS – Recent vessel groundings in the Upper Florida Keys have caused significant damage to local coral reefs, prompting emergency rescue and restoration operations led by NOAA’s Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and partnering organizations.

The most serious incident occurred around 3 a.m. on April 5, when a shrimp boat experienced engine failure and drifted into the Cheeca Rocks Sanctuary Preservation Area near Islamorada. Unable to drop anchor, the vessel crossed shallow coral habitats, dislodging approximately 150 coral fragments.

The U.S. Coast Guard responded swiftly, pumping approximately 1,000 gallons of diesel fuel from the vessel to prevent a major spill and further environmental harm.

NOAA’s marine sanctuary team quickly mobilized to recover the dislodged corals. Larger fragments were secured on-site, while smaller, more vulnerable pieces were transported to Mote Marine Laboratory for rehabilitation. Once recovered, the goal is to restore the coral fragments to the reef.

This was not the first such incident in recent weeks. In early March, a 50-foot sailboat ran aground in the Cannon Patch Sanctuary Preservation Area near Key Largo, dislodging 25 coral fragments. In that case, NOAA crews could retrieve and reattach the corals to their original reef locations.

“These incidents are a stark reminder of the fragility of our coral reef ecosystems,” said a NOAA representative. “Rapid response and coordinated recovery efforts are critical to giving these reefs a chance to survive and thrive.”

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary collaborates with federal, state, and local partners to monitor reef health and prevent future damage. These efforts are part of a broader mission to protect one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in the continental United States.

NOAA emphasized that ongoing public awareness and responsible boating practices are essential to preserving the region’s unique marine environment for future generations.

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