The unique qualities of a marine protected area combined with intense recreational and commercial use of the nationally significant marine resources surrounding the Florida Keys demands a multitude of creative education strategies. One of the primary mandates of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act (FKNMSPA) is to educate the public about the marine environment surrounding the Keys. The diverse habitats, resources, and unique setting of the Keys offer opportunities for the interpretation of marine subtropical and temperate environments. Education and outreach strategies in the action plan fall into two general categories: community involvement/community program strategies and product development strategies.

The first group includes education and outreach strategies designed as interactive programs for user groups (e.g., exhibit production, training programs, workshops, school programs, public-involvement forums, and special events). Strategies that result in the development of specific products (i.e., printed materials, audio-visual materials, signs and displays in high-use areas of the Keys, public service announcements, visitor booths/displays etc.) providing a mechanism for public education and outreach are included in the second group. The education and outreach strategies were developed based on input from environmental educators, Sanctuary education staff, user groups, environmental activists, concerned citizens, and thorough public comment received on the draft management plan.

The unique qualities of a marine protected area combined with intense recreational and commercial use of the nationally significant marine resources surrounding the Florida Keys demands a multitude of creative education strategies. The links from this page give an overview of the Sanctuary's education program and a description of each of the vehicles presently used to provide interpretation and education to the public.

For more detailed information about the education and outreach program goals and strategies please refer to the Education Product List, the Programs and Activities Sheet, or the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Final Management Plan, Volume 1, pages 57 - 84. The Management plan is available at any of the Sanctuary offices or via request for shipment.