Coral Reef Education and Restoration with MODS

In a world where information is constantly evolving and our understanding changing, one thing is constant: coral reefs are in danger. With the Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale, FL beginning the process of building a new exhibit with a focus on coral reef restoration and education, we asked the Senior Director of Life Sciences, Dane Tullock, what MODS is doing to help restore Florida’s coral reefs and educate the public on these critical ecosystems. The following are his responses:

Image courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science.

1. What initiatives is the Museum of Discovery and Science taking to help educate the public on coral reefs and participate in coral reef restoration?

The Museum of Discovery and Science is actively engaged in initiatives to educate the public and participate in coral reef restoration. Currently, we’re amidst planning and fundraising for the second phase of our gallery renovations at MODS. In August 2023, we proudly unveiled the Discovery Spot, a new exhibit designed for young scientists (ages 0-6) and their families, delving into the wonders of Florida ecosystems.

Our forthcoming resilience exhibit, Build a Better World, is in the planning stages. This exhibit will spotlight sustainable climate tech, strategies to make our transportation systems resilient to the impacts of climate change, preservation and rejuvenation efforts for the Everglades ecosystem and initiatives for coral restoration in South Florida. Notably, we’re considering incorporating a live coral exhibit, showcasing cutting-edge technology employed in rebuilding the Florida Coral Reef Tract. The Build a Better World exhibit is tentatively set to debut in 2026. Additionally, we are currently in the preliminary stages of discussions regarding an update to the Florida EcoScapes exhibit.

Rendering courtesy of CambridgeSeven of the Museum of Discovery and Science’s new “Build a Better World” exhibit set to debut in 2026.

2. How does the museum go about educating visitors on coral reefs?

MODS employs a multifaceted approach to educate guests about coral reefs. Throughout the Museum, Science Carts feature hard skeletons from various coral species, alongside information detailing current threats to our inshore reefs and actionable solutions for citizen scientists to contribute to restoration efforts in Southeast Florida.

Additionally, we support virtual educational programs, such as the “Build the Change” event MODS participated with First Book and the LEGO® Group, that engaged 454 schools and 9,000 students in a single day. MODS’ Keller Science Theater hosts STEAM-based presentations, including one dedicated to coral reef restoration efforts, inviting members and guests to participate in preserving our in-shore reefs.

Shark Cart exhibit at MODS. Image courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science.

3. What do those efforts look like?

MODS offers a variety of interactive and educational programs to inspire and inform our guests. Our Shark Cart, sponsored by the Save Our Seas Foundation, allows guests to delve into shark science, focusing on the environmental impacts and sustainability challenges these predators face. This exhibit is brought to life by our educators and EcoExplorer Interns, high school students in a paid internship, who lead hands-on activities like touching shark teeth and playing with shark models, enhancing marine conservation learning.

Additionally, programs such as  Science Bytes, Everglades Storytime and Animal Ambassador Encounters provide insights into local ecosystems and wildlife behaviors. Our Keller Science Theater hosts live science shows that cover topics from alligators to coral reef conservation, led by STEM educators. Ongoing exhibit updates, including the Build a Better World exhibit, are integral to our comprehensive approach to environmental education, ensuring every visit is both informative and memorable, deepening appreciation for the natural world.

Science experiment in the Keller Science Theater. Image courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science.

4. What are some of the exhibits the museum has that help visitors visualize and better understand the reefs?

Within the existing EcoScapes exhibit, guests can explore three living coral exhibits, including the Indo-Pacific Stony Coral Reef, Caribbean Micro-reef and Florida Coral Restoration displays. The Museum plans to offer live coral exhibits showcasing diverse coral reef ecosystems worldwide in the new Build a Better World gallery. The exhibit will focus on distinct aspects of coral reef ecology, providing insights into ongoing efforts to sustain and restore these vital ecosystems.

Enhancing our educational outreach, the Save Our Seas Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the world’s oceans, sponsors the Save Our Seas Distinguished Speaker Series at MODS. This FREE series features an international lineup of environmental speakers, including scientists, conservationists, researchers and educators who share their passion for ocean conservation. Topics range from food security and the future for sharks, white-spotted eagle rays, whales and dolphins to conservation strategies for the Smalltooth Sawfish and more.

Designed for Museum guests of all ages, this series deepens understanding of marine biodiversity and the critical importance of preserving our oceans. You can find more information and register for the FREE virtual series HERE.

Save Our Seas Distinguished Speaker Series Banner. Image courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science

5. What are some of the ideas behind creating the “Build a Better World” resilience gallery?

The Build a Better World exhibit will address ecophobia and emphasize the importance of climate change education. By offering actionable insights and instilling hope, this exhibit aims to inspire our guests. Each section of the gallery will focus on a different aspect of environmental sustainability, such as urban planning, responses to extreme weather events, Everglades restoration, safeguarding Florida’s aquifer for clean drinking water and efforts to save and rebuild the Florida Coral Reef Tract. The educational framework for this gallery is being developed by a dedicated cohort from our education team, ensuring that every element connects MODS members and guests to inspiring science and viable solutions. This initiative empowers them to actively contribute to environmental preservation.

SCUBA Divers with coral trees in the Florida Keys. Image courtesy of NOAA.

6. How has the process been to build the new gallery?

As we dive into planning and fundraising for the Build a Better World exhibit, we are actively engaging the community in addressing the challenges and issues that Southeast Florida and the state are facing. The process is supported by MODS’ 33-member Resilience Education Committee, including Broward County Resilient Environment Department, Community Foundation of Broward, Florida Atlantic University, Florida International University and an array of universities, corporations, foundations and government agencies. This expansion promises not only fresh and exciting experiences but also tackles the urgent query, “What actions can individuals take to mitigate climate change?” With involvement in six exhibit construction projects, I can personally vouch for the unparalleled satisfaction of witnessing young people explore a new gallery, encountering and contributing inspiring ideas at every turn.

7. What organizations does the museum work with to educate the public or actively participate in coral restoration?

MODS collaborates with several key organizations for coral restoration and public education initiatives, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Florida Aquarium, SeaWorld, Reef Institute, Plant a Million Corals, Frost Science Museum, Florida Atlantic University and others.

8. What small steps can people take to help coral reefs?

People can take small but impactful steps to help coral reefs in their day-to-day lives. These include reducing single-use plastic bottle consumption by using reusable mugs or thermoses, and picking up trash on beaches, such as participating in MODS Beach Cleanups, sponsored by The Extra Catch, an initiative where volunteers gather to remove debris from the Dr. Von D. Mizell-Eula Johnson State Park, directly benefiting marine life and coral health. Additionally, using reef-safe sunscreen, refraining from touching or disturbing corals while diving or snorkeling, and volunteering for organizations that support coral reef restoration and conservation efforts in South Florida further contribute to the protection and preservation of these vital ecosystems.

Coral growing in a tank. Image Courtesy of the Coral Restoration Foundation.

9. How and where can people get involved with coral restoration?
   

To get involved with coral restoration, consider reaching out to South Florida nonprofits dedicated to reef restoration or volunteer at MODS. The Museum offers diverse volunteer roles suitable for everyone, from IMAX® Theater ushers to Animal Handlers and administrative support. Volunteer opportunities are available daily, welcoming adults and youth volunteers aged 14 and above. Join MODS to connect with inspiring science, gain valuable experience and contribute positively to your community. Visit mods.org/volunteer for more information. SCUBA-certified individuals can participate in coral replanting and you can also support coral conservation when purchasing Florida saltwater fishing licenses.

EcoExplorer Interns in the Everglades. Image courtesy of the Museum of Discovery and Science.