Our mission is simple—but not really.

Every year, we train thousands of citizen scientist volunteers to survey coral reefs across the globe and kelp forests along the West Coast — because healthy reefs and healthy kelp forests are the foundation of a healthy ocean. And a healthy ocean is the foundation of everything else. That's why we do this.

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What we do and how.

Reef Check programs provide ecologically sound, economically sustainable solutions to protect our reefs, restore our kelp forests, and preserve the Amazing that lives in both. We build partnerships among volunteers, governments, universities, businesses, and nonprofits — because Amazing is everyone's responsibility.

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Coral Reef Program

With divers who survey the health and status of coral reefs, the Tropical Program uses a globally standardized scientific protocol to collect valuable data for reef management. Our EcoDiver teams span 102 countries and territories to help preserve and protect our coral reefs.

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leanne inverts north horn reef check
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Kelp Forest Program

The purpose of the Reef Check Kelp Forest Monitoring Program is to educate, train, and engage our community to monitor the health of our kelp forests. Local citizen scientist divers volunteer their time to support science-based ocean management and conservation.

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Reef Check Monterey California Program
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Dive into Science Program

Our Dive into Science Program aims to provide youth & young adults from under-resourced and tribal communities with a pathway to a career in conservation or college education in natural sciences or marine biology.

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