Best known throughout Broward County for its Annual Reef Sweep and Beach Cleanup, the nonprofit Ocean Watch Foundation is dissolving.

According to an April 17 statement from the foundation:

“Due to being a fully volunteer organization it has become too difficult for those who work full-time to commit the necessary amount of time to run the organization. Foundation President Julie Ciucevich and Vice President Mary Antoine said OWF members continue their commitment to preserving and protecting the coral reef ecosystems in Southeast Florida; however, they encourage other groups to continue the efforts of the Foundation, including underwater cleanups. The Foundation has raised more than just awareness of the fragility of coral ecosystems. More than 9,000 volunteers have collected 33 tons of harmful garbage during the Foundation’s Annual Reef Sweep and Beach Cleanup since OWF’s inception in 1989. Other projects implemented in South Florida via OWF include REEF fish ID classes and survey dives, RECON coral monitoring, mooring buoy inspections, the Coral Nursery Project in conjunction with Nova Southeastern University, monofilament recycling and Adopt-A-Shore. ‘We want to thank the many individuals, groups, corporate sponsors and the dive community who’ve supported our efforts over the years,’ stress Ciucevich and Antoine. ‘We celebrate our achievements and encourage the local community to continue their awareness of our precious natural resources.’”