MarineLab Undersea Laboratory

MarineLab Undersea Laboratory was started as part of the Marine Resources Development Foundation. The foundation has been in operation since 1971; however, MarineLab started in 1985. Since its start MarineLab has helped over 5,000 students and teachers learn about ecology of the ocean and the Key Largo area. MarineLab offers programs for education, which often have schools returning year after year in order to gain more information.

Teachers can join in workshops on their own to be with biologists and instructors regarding explorations of the Upper Key marine communities. Many of the trips go into Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Everglades National Park, and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Fees for the workshop vary on the types of activities teachers elect to go on.

For students a trip is often filled with snorkeling. A student teacher outing can be with four students. Many of the student programs are in the summer when it is the warmest. The cost for the program depends on how long one wishes to attend and what will be part of the program. There are certain day programs offered too, as well as open water diver courses through MarineLab.