Dr. Buddy Powell devoted his life to protecting Florida’s manatees, springs, and coastal ecosystems. His leadership shaped generations of conservationists and helped secure protections for some of our most imperiled species. When Buddy passed away earlier this year, Florida lost one of its brightest conservation voices.
To honor his legacy, our Foundation is proud to announce a $25,000 Protect Florida Springs grant awarded in his memory to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute (CMARI) where Buddy served as Executive Director.
This gift will support the creation of their Freshwater Invasive Species Exhibit. The exhibit will feature species like clown knife fish, oscars, arowana, and Mayan cichlids. These non-native fish threaten our state’s waterways by outcompeting native species and disrupting fragile ecosystems. By teaching visitors how these species are introduced, often through released pets or bait dumping, the exhibit will raise awareness about the importance of protecting wild Florida.
The project will also teach the public solutions, from proper aquarium care to reporting invasive species to making responsible choices. It is an approach Buddy would have admired: connecting education, science, and action to protect native biodiversity.
We are honored to help carry Buddy’s legacy forward. His work lives on in every manatee, spring, and student inspired to protect wild Florida.
