WLRN "Saving Our Reefs" November 14, 2006

Watch it at home!

MIAMI, FL - WLRN Public Television proudly presents the premiere of the documentary “Saving Our Reefs” airing on WLRN PBS 17 on Tuesday, November 14, 2006 at 8pm. This film explores the beauty and splendor of North America's only living coral barrier reef, which has attracted millions of people to the warm waters of the Florida Keys. Unfortunately, the popularity of this underwater 'Garden of Eden' has created a negative impact on this national treasure. Pollution, harvesting of the coral and excessive fishing have compromised this fragile ecosystem. The film explores the state of the coral reefs today and challenges viewers to help in "Saving Our Reefs."



In addition, WLRN PBS 17 dedicates a night to documentaries focused on saving Florida's treasures. It begins with the first airing of "Saving Our Reefs" on Tuesday, November 14th at 8pm. "Water's Journey Everglades" (Parts 1 and 2) follows at 9pm, then "Dolphin Rescue" at 11pm. All of these documentaries explore the beauty and challenges facing some of Florida’s treasures.



“Saving Our Reefs” is a local production about an issue with statewide and international implications. Millions of tourists from around the world come to dive and see North America’s only living coral reef every year. However, there is some evidence that the health of the coral and marine life is declining due to several factors that are discussed in “Saving Our Reefs”. The program balances the opinions of experts who work to protect the reefs with facts and information from organizations such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and many others who discuss the challenges and possible solutions.



“This project was truly enjoyable. The more I spoke to the people whose lives and work revolve around the reefs, like divers, marine biologists, reef doctors, the more I began to understand how crucial it was to get the message across to anyone watching this film. The reefs are important to all of us and we each must do our part” says Felipe Marrou, Jr., producer and owner, VTM Productions.



In addition to the first air date on Tuesday, November 14 at 8pm, “Saving Our Reefs” will air again on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 10pm; Friday, Nov. 17 at 11pm; and Monday, Nov. 20 at 9pm.

Official Website: http://www.wlrn.org/