Hello, we are 7th grade students. We are deeply concerned  for Florida's coral reefs. Our goal is to make a safe environment for our waters. We decided to focus this major concern on boating misuses. 

 Florida's native coral reefs are decreasing rapidly; in fact, in the last 50 years, we have lost 50% of our beloved Coral Reefs. We are trying to protect our fragile coral reef from boating misuse. A grounded ship may destroy a hundred years worth of coral in an instant. 

Coral reefs are vibrant ecosystems that support a diverse range of marine life, but they are facing severe threats due to human activities. A world without corals means not only will we have a less diverse and less beautiful ocean ecosystem, but it will also be an economic disaster for many people, especially in developing countries. Fisheries and tourism provide important livelihoods that directly depend on healthy coral reefs. Including irresponsible boating practices. It is crucial that we take immediate action to protect these valuable ecosystems for future generations.

Boating misuses such as anchoring on coral reefs, speeding through sensitive areas, and dumping waste into the water can cause irreversible damage to coral reefs and the marine life that depends on them.  As a result, the impact of these actions is not just limited to the immediate area but can have far-reaching consequences for the entire ecosystem.

As young students of the planet, we have a responsibility to raise awareness and advocate for sustainable boating practices. By signing this petition, we are calling on boaters, government agencies, and beach enjoyers/ tourists to help us raise awareness for our coral reefs. Help by donating below. By signing this petition we are trying to raise awareness to pass a law that rents a boat has to be aware of the nearby coral reefs and have a proper boating lines. 

https://coral.org/en/ 

Sincerely,

Your 7th grade friends