Visit Manatee Lagoon to learn how seagrass is a fundamental part of our marine environment. This speaker panel will include short presentations from local experts who will share insights into the ecological significance of seagrasses and discuss ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving these vital ecosystems.
Featured Speakers
Dr. Rachel Brewton, PhD
Assistant Research Professor, Florida Atlantic University's Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute
About the speaker: Dr. Brewton received her B.S. in Environmental Science from Texas A&M University Corpus Christi, M.S. in Coastal Sciences from University of Southern Mississippi, and Ph.D. in Geosciences from FAU. She has worked in state regulatory positions at Louisiana DEQ and Florida DEP, with expertise in water quality, harmful algal blooms, estuarine ecology, and marine fisheries. Her current research focuses on seagrass loss, restoration, macroalgal blooms, and nutrient pollution.
Dr. Brewton will discuss the critical role seagrasses play in the Indian River Lagoon, current research challenges, and the exciting seagrass nursery expansion project helping restore these underwater meadows.
David Holmberg
Fisheries and Wildlife Biologist, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
About the speaker: David works as a Fisheries and Wildlife biologist with FWC’s Aquatic Habitat Conservation and Restoration Section covering the South Region. He focuses on seagrass and mangrove restoration projects along the East coast and enjoys incorporating volunteers into small-scale restoration projects to foster community pride and ownership in Florida’s ongoing restoration efforts.
Dr. Krista A. McCoy, PhD
Director of Research and Conservation, Florida Oceanographic Society
About the speaker: Dr. McCoy’s research focuses on resilience biology and understanding the mechanisms that promote robustness to stressors across levels of biological organization—from cells to ecosystems. She earned her BS in Biology from Old Dominion University, MS in Biology from James Madison University, and PhD in Interdisciplinary Ecology from University of Florida. Her research program examines endogenous protective mechanisms activated by stressors and whether these can be enhanced through targeted mitigation strategies.
Join us for this enlightening panel discussion and discover how these underwater gardens are essential to the health of our lagoons, the wildlife that depends on them, and the coastal communities we call home.
When: Sunday, September 14, at 2:00 p.m.
Where: 6000 N. Flagler Drive, West Palm Beach, FL 33407
Cost: Free admission, registration recommended.
