09/28/2026
Drumroll please!! We are excited to announce Ross Cunning, Ph.D. as the recipient of the 2026 Porter Prize Award! 🪸
Ross is a research biologist at Shedd Aquarium whose work focuses on understanding and protecting coral reef ecosystems in a rapidly changing climate. His research explores why some corals are better able to withstand heat stress, helping scientists better understand coral resilience and inform restoration strategies.
But Ross’s science does more than deepen our understanding of coral reefs. It has helped shape how we fight to protect them.
His research at Port Everglades revealed a remarkable coral population in a region where coral populations are declining across much of Florida’s Coral Reef, including some of Florida’s last remaining wild staghorn corals. That science became a critical part of Miami Waterkeeper’s campaign to stop a proposed deep dredging project that, because of Ross’ research, we know threatened more than 10 million corals.
After our advocacy campaign and litigation, based on this science, the Army Corps ultimately withdrew its application.
Ross also answered the call after the PortMiami dredging disaster, joining with Miami Waterkeeper and co-authors Prof. Andrew Baker and Prof. Brian Barnes to publish what is still the definitive analysis of dredging impacts, proving that at least 560,000 corals were killed by the project.
The Porter Prize is given annually, and recognizes individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to protecting South Florida’s watershed. Named for longtime Miami Waterkeeper champion Jim Porter, the award honors the power of science, persistence, and collaboration to protect the waters we all depend on.
Join us October 15 at our 8th Annual State of the Water at the Rusty Pelican, where we’ll recognize Ross, hear from experts featured in The Coral Rescuers, and look toward the future of Florida’s Coral Reef.
🎟️ Tickets are available here: https://miamiwaterkeeper.org/sow2026/
