Full course description
Course summary:
As part of the continuing stewardship of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the Advisory Council stipulated that voluntary boater education be offered for anyone wishing to enjoy the protected waters surrounding the island chain. This course provides boaters with resources to protect themselves and the unique marine environment.
This course was developed at the request of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Advisory Committee. It provides an overview of this special environment and the rules we have to protect it. You will also learn about the many ways in which you impact the Keys and their natural resources. Taking this course and using the resources it provides will make you a more responsible and safer boater.
Course objectives:
After completing this course, learners should be able to:
- Identify relevant regulations that provide the framework for boater safety and resource protection in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
- Identify sensitive natural and cultural resources and the management tools that protect them.
- List boating strategies and techniques to prevent resource impacts in different habitats.
- Know how to identify the location of marine zones within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and describe the applicable access and use restrictions. Describe the consequences of illegal actions within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
- Identify the impacts of boater behavior on other visitors and choose respectful options.
Course topics include:
- A Place Like No Other
- Protecting Our Resources
- Stewardship Depends on You
- Zones and Special Protection Areas
- Consequences of Careless Boating
- Choosing to Be a Better Boater
Elements of the course:
- Informational text
- Informational video
- Interactive practice activities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Final assessment
This course is self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the course as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing all course content and activities, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the quiz, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Recommended background
This course is recommended for anyone visiting the Keys, and is especially important for those who will be boating in and around the Keys and the National Marine Sanctuary.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.
Course creators:
This course was designed and developed jointly by Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) and the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University.