This dive site is the Coral Restoration Foundation Nursery, a unique underwater laboratory dedicated to growing and outplanting endangered coral species. Divers here navigate a grid of 'coral trees' – PVC structures suspending thousands of coral fragments, primarily Staghorn and Elkhorn corals. It's not a natural reef, but a vital conservation effort, offering an immersive educational experience rather than a typical recreational dive. Access is strictly controlled, requiring special permission and often participation in CRF's volunteer or training programs, highlighting its role as a working nursery for ecological recovery.
While primarily focused on coral fragments, the nursery's location within a larger marine ecosystem means divers can still observe various reef fish, small invertebrates, and the occasional turtle passing through. The surrounding sand and seagrass beds also host juvenile fish, crabs, and conchs, contributing to the local biodiversity. The main 'plants' are the growing coral fragments themselves, representing the future of the reef.
The best time to visit aligns with the warm, clear waters of the Florida Keys, typically May through October. For divers, the highlight is the hands-on conservation experience and witnessing the remarkable process of coral aquaculture. It's an excellent site for beginner divers and those interested in marine biology. Freedivers will also find the shallow depths ideal for observing the coral trees and practicing their skills, though again, access requires prior arrangement with the Coral Restoration Foundation.
