Save the Reefs Save the Oceans Gala 2011

Stretching over 1,000 miles, California’s coastline is the gateway to a unique and often under-appreciated marine ecosystem, according to the international non-profit organization Reef Check. Offshore, just below the surface, kelp forests and rocky reefs play home to a vast array of marine life that supports a variety of human uses.

Unfortunately, like reefs around the world, the rapid growth of California’s population, coastal development, pollution, and overfishing have placed increasing demands on these nearshore resources. Many organisms that were previously common in high numbers, like abalone, are now almost gone.

What does this have to do with real estate? Well, these natural resources are one of the biggest reasons people choose to purchase homes, launch businesses and otherwise stake their claim on the Golden State’s coastal communities. Preserving the health of our reefs, coastline and ocean is critical for the future of California.

If this is an issue close to your heart, consider attending the Reef Check Foundation’s “Save the Reefs, Save the Oceans Gala 2011” on Friday, September 16. Sponsorship opportunities are available, and the organization is seeking donations for an auction.

Reef Check California -the local branch of the worldwide organization- aims to build a network of informed and involved citizens who support the sustainable use and conservation of our nearshore marine resources. To accomplish this, volunteers are trained to carry out surveys of nearshore reefs providing data on the status of key indicator species.



 



The benefit will take place at the Jonathan Beach Club in Santa Monica. It will be a casual “toes in the sand” evening featuring never-before-seen footage from the world’s leading underwater filmmakers. There will also be an opportunity to meet some of the thousands of volunteer divers who monitor these essential natural resources.

The evening will recognize the contributions of three “Heroes of the Reef,” each having demonstrated an exemplary commitment to ocean conservation.

For more information visit: http://reefcheck.org/events/gala2011/ or call Reef Check at: (310) 230-2371.