WHAT IS SEA THE REEF?
Welcome to the Sea the Reef Program, a program of Surf Skate Science — where learning meets adventure on an unforgettable journey beneath the waves and across the shore! Sea the Reef opens doors to marine science for students who might otherwise never have the opportunity, providing hands-on, immersive experiences that bring STEAM careers to life. We work with students who are economically disadvantaged or who may lack exposure to this field due to life circumstances, such as cultural barriers, creating pathways to explore the marine world and inspiring future scientists, engineers, and advocates for our oceans.
Our curriculum uniquely combines STEAM education with outdoor action sports, using surfing and skateboarding as platforms to build critical skills like resiliency, risk-taking, and confidence. These qualities are foundational for success in STEAM careers, where curiosity drives discovery, and challenges lead to growth. Through these experiences, youth engage in beach cleanups that evolve into art and citizen science projects and enjoy activities like snorkeling excursions to explore vibrant marine ecosystems just off our local shoreline. For those who are not comfortable with the water, we work with local cities and teen programs to teach water safety and skills before they dive in.
We also partner with universities, organizations, and top scientists as students delve into shark and coral research, water quality testing, and conservation efforts, discovering firsthand the vital roles of our oceans and Everglades in sustaining biodiversity and protecting communities.
Each lesson weaves together science, sustainability, and creative expression, empowering students to become advocates for a healthier planet. Here, the ocean and skatepark serve as their classrooms, fostering a deep connection to nature and building confidence to tackle the challenges of the future.
"Sea the Reef isn’t just about learning; it’s about igniting a lifelong love for the natural world and equipping students with the tools to drive positive change."
Our workshops combine design challenges, sustainability projects, and creative communication, transforming young learners of all abilities into emerging scientists, environmental advocates, and artful voices for the future. Join us on this epic journey to explore marine science, embrace outdoor adventure, and discover the wonders of our world’s seas and shorelines!
UPCOMING OPPORTUNITIES FOR
SOUTH FLORIDA STUDENTS
Get ready for an epic, once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Surf Skate Science has teamed up with Blue Scholars Initiative to offer a lucky group of middle and high school students the chance to dive deep into marine science with the Biscayne Immersion Program at Biscayne National Park in 2025.
APPLICANTS WILL PARTICIPATE ON ONE OF THE FOLLOWING DATES:
January 20, 2025
March 31, 2025
Picture this: a full day exploring seagrass meadows, mangrove forests, and coral reefs through snorkeling adventures, island trail hikes, marine debris cleanups, water quality testing, fish physiology talks, and even a scavenger hunt across the bay! You'll be side-by-side with top marine scientists, learning in the most awesome living classroom—the ocean.
And guess what? This incredible opportunity is 100% FREE and it’s open to students who might not otherwise get to experience something like this due to financial or other circumstances.
If you’ve got basic swimming skills (don’t worry, you’ll wear a life jacket while snorkeling!), you can apply. We’re looking for students ready to share why they love the ocean and should be chosen for this unforgettable adventure.
Here’s the best part—it all happens on teacher workdays, so no begging your parents to miss school! Transportation leaves from downtown Fort Lauderdale, and we’ve got your ride covered if you need it.
Why miss out on discovering the amazing world beneath the waves? Apply now and get ready to dive into your future as a marine science expert!
Shark Tagging: An Adventure in Marine Science
At Surf Skate Science, we often have opportunities for students aged 8 and up, along with their parents, to become citizen scientists on these shark science expeditions. These experiences offer a unique chance to contribute to real-world research while learning alongside professional scientists. It's an adventure that fosters a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation
These collaborative programs offer students and the public an incredible opportunity to engage in real-world shark research and conservation. Whether you're interested in hands-on fieldwork or learning from leading marine scientists, there are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference in the future of our oceans.
What is Shark Tagging?
Shark tagging is a critical research method used by marine scientists to study and conserve shark populations. By attaching specially designed tags to the dorsal fins of sharks, researchers can track their movements, understand their behavior, and gather vital data about their migration patterns, habitat use, and population dynamics. This information is essential for developing conservation strategies to protect these incredible apex predators and the ecosystems they inhabit.
Shark tagging involves a combination of hands-on fieldwork and cutting-edge technology. During a tagging expedition, scientists and participants work together to catch, measure, and tag sharks before releasing them back into the ocean. The tags, which can be acoustic, satellite, or archival, provide valuable insights into the sharks' daily lives, helping researchers monitor their long-term health and behavior. This process is safe for the sharks and contributes to their conservation by enabling more informed decision-making in marine management.
Our Partner Programs
University of Miami’s Shark Research & Conservation (SRC) and Females in Natural Sciences (FINS) Programs
The Shark Research & Conservation Program (SRC) at the University of Miami is dedicated to conducting conservation-relevant research while inspiring scientific literacy and environmental engagement among youth. SRC brings hundreds of students, including those from historically underrepresented communities, out on their research vessels each year to participate in shark tagging and study. A highlight of the program is the Females in Shark Science (F.I.N.S.) initiative, which connects young girls with female scientists, fostering a new generation of marine biologists.
SRC’s work focuses on the ecology, biology, and conservation of sharks and rays, particularly in the highly impacted environments of South Florida. The program operates out of the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, one of the top marine research institutions in the world. Through a blend of science, education, and conservation, SRC’s interdisciplinary research addresses critical conservation challenges while engaging the public in marine science.
Nova Southeastern University's Guy Harvey Institute and Foundation
At Nova Southeastern University (NSU), the Halmos College of Arts and Sciences and the NSU Guy Harvey Research Institute are at the forefront of biological oceanography, particularly in shark research. NSU’s shark tagging program tracks the migration patterns of ten different shark species, including the elusive smooth hammerhead, providing new insights into their movements in the western Atlantic Ocean. The data collected informs conservation efforts, helping to protect these vulnerable species.
NSU’s shark research extends beyond the scientific community, with initiatives aimed at encouraging more young females of color to enter marine biology through programs like Minorities in Shark Sciences. These efforts are complemented by successful advocacy for shark conservation, including legislation banning the importation of shark fins into Florida. NSU’s ongoing research and educational programs offer students and the public unique opportunities to contribute to shark conservation.
Excited about our joining an upcoming shark tagging trip?
Wondering what to expect? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
You will spend the entire day on the boat, diving into the world of shark research. We'll split into teams, each with specific roles during the tagging process.
First up, we'll set about 10 bait traps, with everyone pitching in under the guidance of our scientific team. Then, it's time for hands-on training. You'll learn everything about sharks, from tagging and measuring to collecting DNA samples and more.
When we start pulling up traps, it's your chance to shine. If we catch a shark, the team will bring it close to the boat. You'll work side by side with scientists, helping to keep the shark hydrated, taking measurements, collecting DNA, checking for parasites, and tagging the shark. Your job is crucial as you relay data to our recording team.
Safety first! Remember, participants should never be in front of the shark's pectoral fins. If we encounter an aggressive shark, step back and observe.
With hundreds of these trips under their belts, our team and captain are seasoned experts. Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping experience you won't soon forget.
Listen to what our past participants had to say about our recent trips:
“Thank you for this opportunity. I’m so grateful I was able to experience this. Everything about this trip was incredible and thrilling. The fact that they let us do the tasks and help with the hands-on activities made this trip most memorable. Everyone was really charming and helpful and would answer any questions we had. Thank you again.” - Nicole Arroyo, 16
“This opportunity was a dream come true. I have loved sharks since I was little, and this experience only grew that love. I have always known that I wanted to become a marine biologist, and this experience only reinforced that knowledge. My favorite part of the trip was being on the boat with an amazing team of researchers, a group of enthusiastic girls and friends, and everything to do with sharks!” - Eloise Coldwell, 15
"The trip was so amazing, and I didn't know that is what shark scientists do! My favorite part was when I got to touch and measure the huge Nurse Shark, tag the Black Tip Reef Shark, and clip part of the Black Nose Shark's fin. It was so much fun! I learned a lot about sharks and how to tag them. Thank you for such an amazing experience that will be locked in my brain forever!" - Neela Barberousse, 11
“This trip showed me just how amazing God made these animals. Getting up close with them was a powerful experience. It is one that I will look back on with reverence and knowledge that I helped us understand more about these amazing creatures. I encourage anyone who is able to go on this trip to go and enjoy learning more about sharks.” - Isabelle Smith, 14
“Shark tagging with Surf Skate Science was surreal! 10/10 recommend for any girl who wants a first-hand look into what being a marine biologist can look like!” - Genesis Jackson, 12
We are so excited for this incredible opportunity to dive deep into the world of shark research! Check out and learn about a few of the amazing sharks we might encounter on this adventure.