About

REEF Scuba is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit marine conservation organization.

We are dedicated to integrating a Restoration, Ecology, and Environmental Focus (REEF) into the global diving industry.

Through scientific research, field restoration, policy engagement, public education, and resource development, we empower divers, scientists, and citizens to become active participants in coral reef conservation and restoration.

501(c)(3) · EIN 85-0698477 UN ECOSOC Special Consultative Status

Co-founders Graham Patterson and Tamara Silverstone smiling in scuba gear at the edge of a pool during Divemaster training.

Our Origins

REEF Scuba was founded in 2020 by co-founders Graham Patterson and Tamara Silverstone, who met while completing their Divemaster training in Thailand. Their daily diving experience in damaged reef systems motivated them to create an organization focused on actionable, community-centered conservation. Since then they’ve both gone on to complete degrees in marine science and management…

…and the REEF Scuba team grew bigger.

Meet the Whole Team

Our Mission

REEF Scuba works to transform the global diving community into a powerful force for coral reef conservation. We build pathways that allow every diver witnessing coral bleaching and reef mortality to actively contribute to restoration and protection efforts.

Our goal is to cultivate a new generation of divers who are not merely tourists, but informed stewards and citizen scientists helping to monitor, conserve, and restore coral reefs.

To achieve this, we focus on four key areas:

A vibrant underwater scene showing a coral reef covered in brown and tan coral formations, with small black-and-white fish swimming among them in clear blue water.

Education & Outreach

We share scientific knowledge through accessible media, resources, and training, helping divers and the public better understand coral reef ecosystems and the challenges they face.

Learn More about Education & Outreach
A diver swims near a vibrant coral reef under sunlight rays, surrounded by a swarm of small orange fish in clear blue waters.

Local Initiatives

We work with local communities and divers to support on-the-ground conservation, training new generations of citizen scientists and ocean advocates.

Learn More about Local Initiatives
Close-up of a vibrant coral formation underwater, with a rich blue ocean backdrop.

Advocacy & Policy

We connect science and conservation practice with policy discussions, helping ensure coral reef protection is represented in international and national decision-making.

Learn More about Advocacy & Policy

Contribute your skills as a REEF Scuba volunteer

There are many remote opportunities available, primarily in research, planning, social media management, newsletter writing, and partnership building.

You don’t have to be a marine scientist to get involved.

Everyone can be an Ocean Champion!

Your contribution goes a long way. Thank you.

A person swimming in clear blue water near a ring of rocks submerged in the water.

Let’s meet under the waves, and share in the beauty of the natural world.

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of ocean professionals and enthusiasts.

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Main Coral Photo Credit: Renata Romeo / Ocean Image Bank

Coral Photo Credit (Research Tool & Innovation): Yen-Yi Lee / Ocean Image Bank