We are known as The Conch Republic and we have a special kind of unrelenting drive and optimism. We do not back down, nor do we quit. When we see neighbors who need assistance, we help. Unconditionally. When we see a need, we volunteer. And so an army was created. An army of people, both from within the Republic and outside our borders, who came together to restore what Irma took away, and to make everyone’s lives better.
As time progressed, we were able to expand our operations from simple cleanup, to restoration and preservation of our waterways, bays, and ocean.
You want to help. What can you expect?
As our name implies, we mostly do marine habitat cleanup and restoration. Sometimes it’s muddy, Stinky, Even disgusting. Extremely tiring and hot. And you’ll have the time of your life. Because it’s also fun. The people make it so.
We also need help with maintenance of vessels, special missions, festival booths, collecting propagules (baby mangroves) and a whole ton of things that power an army like ours forward.
There is a place for you here, no matter what your physical fitness level or abilities.
We do request that you sign a waiver. Please print and bring with you. We also strongly encourage you to stay within your limits. There are no grunting heroes here who expect you to do anything you are uncomfortable with. We are very safety-conscious. Almost to a fault.
How to sign up to Volunteer
To sign up for Saturdays with CRMA events/tours, please email Brian@conchrepublicmarinearmy.com.
IN YOUR EMAIL, PLEASE INCLUDE your name, email, number of guests and the Saturday you would like to reserve.
Weekday trips are available by inquiry for large groups, families and team outings.
Limit is 8 per trip and calendars fill up fast, so please provide an alternate date in case your first choice is full.
Special exceptions can be made for families/groups.
***Please notify us 2 days prior if you can’t fill your reserved spot as lunch is ordered and other volunteers would love to come in your place and you can always reserve another time. There’s plenty of trash and we understand things happen.***
What You Need To Know and Do
Most of what we do is dirty. Where we do it is often hot and sometimes secluded. Proper equipment and preparation is key to your enjoyment and safety. Please run down the list and make sure you are ready.
- Reusable water bottle. We will provide the fill up.
- Water shoes. We wade into areas that are filled with muck. Make sure your shoes are secure and won’t be pulled off in deeper bottoms.
- Long sleeved shirts and pants. We climb into the mangroves, and they will take a bite out of you.
- Work gloves if you have a favorite pair but we have them for you.
- Reef-safe sunscreen.
- Sunglasses. Polarized is preferred.
- Hat, bandanna, or other head covering to protect from the sun.
- Optional: Change of clothes, towel, etc.
Our days usually run from morning to mid afternoon, under the Florida sun. Take breaks often, and drink lots of water. Don’t wait until you are thirsty, that’s too late.
Safety is our number one goal. Always work in pairs or in groups.
