The Fall and Rise of Florida’s Coral Reefs

Kent resident Pete Mohan will present “The Fall and Rise of Florida’s Coral Reefs.” Pete became involved with coral reef conservation when he served as Aquarium Curator at SeaWorld Ohio.
Later, he continued this work as Director of Animal Operations at the Akron Zoo. In his retirement, Pete continues to work part-time at the zoo advising on aquatic issues.
For this Tap Talk, he explains, “The marine heat wave of 2023 devastated Florida’s coral reefs. Record water temperatures further degraded an ecosystem steadily damaged by disease and pollution since the 1970s. At Tap Talks, I’ll discuss the history of problems on the reef, the impact of the recent heat wave, and successes in saving important corals during the heat wave.”***
He will also review recent research and conservation efforts designed to make future restoration of Florida’s reefs a reality. Those who attend will have an opportunity to meet Pete Mohan and find out more about the fight to restore and save ocean coral reefs.
***The recent marine heat wave caused this coral death at Sombrero Reef in South Florida.
🤝Tap Talks was initiated by Don Schjeldahl, the creator of North Water Brewing, as a way to bring the community together for conversation about life in Kent, Kent’s history, and issues of the
day that impact us all. It’s also a chance to enjoy an array of locally-brewed artisan ales and beers. Tap Talks are scheduled monthly at 7 pm at North Water Brewing, 101 Crain Avenue in Kent.