Brian Keller

Dr. Brian D. Keller

The Mangrove Action Project joins the world of marine conservation in mourning the loss of Dr. Brian D. Keller, who dedicated his life to conservation of ocean ecosystems, especially coral reefs and associated ecosystems such as mangroves and seagrasses. Brian was more than a colleague to MAP. Beloved husband of the treasurer of our board of directors, Fiona Wilmot, he was also a friend and staunch supporter. Brian Keller passed away on the morning of March 10.

Marine ecosystems have lost a tireless advocate who daily studied and worked on ways to better understand coral reef ecosystems to improve their management and conservation for the benefit of all people around the world. Brian used his experience and knowledge of marine research every day to apply to his role in science management and to share with others. There was no greater proponent of sound science-based management than Brian and no one more generous. His knowledge was unsurpassed and he knew how sound science could be applied to make the wisest and best-informed decisions to conserve marine resources. His wisdom informed and influenced management decisions locally, regionally, and worldwide every day, especially in the Caribbean.

At the time of his sudden death, Dr. Keller was serving as the Regional Science Coordinator for the Southeast Atlantic, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean Region of NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries. He was working on a range of significant marine conservation issues from water quality to ecosystem and species-based monitoring to climate change adaptation options for management of marine protected areas. Brian supported local managers throughout the Caribbean, being unimaginably generous with his time and support. He was always ready to share his vast knowledge, available to review and comment on a colleague’s work, and eager to discuss the latest science, research, and findings and how best to apply these to conservation and improvement of coastal communities’ livelihoods and quality of life.

@ Florida's Wildlife: On the Frontline of Climate Change, Oct. 08

Brian will be greatly missed – as scientist, mentor, adviser, and friend. MAP’s staff, board, and many members and supporters join in sending our sincere condolences to Fiona and their families.