Katie
Gretter

About

I am the Restoration Projects Coordinator for FDEP’s Coral Protection and Restoration Program (CPR). Carving a unique path to the coral reef world, I completed my Master of Arts (Honors), International Relations at the University of St Andrews in Scotland. There, my research focused on coral reef protection policy and the extent to which these ecosystems had been included in international environmental frameworks, such as the Convention for Biological Diversity. Utilizing my knowledge in this topic, I contributed to UNEP-WCMC’s recently published Strengthening Coral Reef Restoration Regulatory Frameworks: Guidance for reviewing national regulatory frameworks. My professional journey has taken me throughout the conservation world from local to international levels, including work for Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation (SCCF) on the Southwest coast of Florida, Ohio EPA (my home state!), US EPA Office of Inspector General, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

I’ve been obsessed with diving since I was a teenager and recently completed my PADI Divemaster certification. Outside of a love for the ocean, I enjoy running, spending time with friends and family, and trying new plant-based recipes!

As Restoration Projects Coordinator, I assist with administration of state funding to critical restoration projects across the state. I also help to determine priorities for restoration and protection, ensuring activities align with state-wide initiatives and the resilience needs of our reefs and coastal communities. Finally, I co-lead the Florida’s Coral Reef Resilience Program (FCRRP) Restoration Team and provide technical and administration support for the Florida’s Coral Reef Restoration and Recover (FCR3) Initiative.