REEF members are the heart of our grassroots marine conservation programs. A diverse community of divers, snorkelers, and ocean enthusiasts support our mission to conserve marine environments worldwide.

This month we highlight Debbie Cacace, a REEF member from Virginia. She joined REEF in 2017 and has conducted more than 460 surveys in the Tropical Western Atlantic region, where she is a Level 5 surveyor. Thank you Debbie, for being a dedicated and active part of REEF!

When and how did you first volunteer with REEF or become a REEF member?
I became a REEF member in December of 2017 as a result of learning about REEF from a friend who is a marine biologist. I was always trying to identify what I saw underwater using ID books, and being a member and surveying was an ideal way to learn more and document what I saw.

What inspires you to complete REEF surveys?
I enjoy seeing my life list, so I can keep learning and find new fish. Also, I enjoy sharing and comparing sightings with my dive buddies. As a retired engineer, documenting things has always been something I have enjoyed, and so I enjoy combining that with my love of the ocean. Attending several REEF Field Survey Trips and participating in Fishinars has helped with identification and learning fish behaviors that help identify some of the different fish.

What is your favorite part about being a REEF member?
My favorite part about being a REEF member is the opportunity to learn more and to see and share other people’s finds.

Do you dive close to where you live? Where is your favorite place to dive and why?
I live in Virginia and have made many local dives there. Opportunities to dive locally are much less than they used to be, as there are currently no local dive boats. My local dives were mostly prior to joining REEF. The majority of my diving is in the Caribbean with occasional trips to other locations. I think just about every place I have been is my favorite for something different. So, even with over 5500 dives, I have no absolute favorite of all.

Do you have any surveying, fishwatching, or identification tips for REEF members?
Don’t be intimidated by the number of different fish. Just start! I picked one species at a time and worked on that until I was comfortable and moved on to another. Take advantage of the REEF educational materials that are available.