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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is located in the Florida Keys, home to the only living coral reef formations in the continental United States. Dr. Gilbert Voss, from the Marine Institute of the University of Miami, first noticed the damage occurring to the reef structure during his marine studies in the Keys.

In 1957, a conference on preserving South Florida’s natural resources was held at Everglades National Park. Dr. Voss highlighted the damage to the reef structure caused by tourism activities, such as collecting souvenirs like seashells and corals. He proposed a nonprofit project to protect the area.

With the threat of extinction looming due to unrestrained commercial exploitation, Dr. Voss and John D. Pennekamp, an assistant editor at Miami Herald, joined forces. Pennekamp, a prominent conservationist, played a crucial role in establishing the park, eventually named after him in recognition of his efforts.

After facing opposition from commercial interests, the establishment of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was finally proclaimed in 1960 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Governor LeRoy Collins named it the United States’ first undersea park, honoring Pennekamp for his tireless support.

Learn more about Florida’s Coral Reef

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