NOAA has recognized coral ecologist Dr. Kylie Smith with the 2026 Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award. Smith co-founded I.CARE, a Florida Keys nonprofit that trains recreational divers to help restore coral reefs.
In its October 1 announcement, NOAA said I.CARE has trained more than 5,000 recreational divers in restoration techniques. The organization has also planted thousands of reef-building corals across the Keys.
Bringing Divers Into Restoration
I.CARE, short for Islamorada Conservation and Restoration Education, was established in 2019. Its work brings residents and visiting divers into coral restoration, connecting community participation with restoration science.
Smith’s education work also includes a paid internship in restoration ecology, the study and practice of repairing damaged ecosystems. NOAA says her experience mentoring more than 40 undergraduates at Clemson University helped inspire the program.
Recognizing Habitat Conservation
The award is a collaboration between NOAA and the American Fisheries Society. It recognizes achievement and dedication to conserving coastal, river and marine habitats.
Smith received the award at Restore America’s Estuaries’ Coastal and Estuarine Summit in San Francisco.
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