via Marine Aquarium Societies of North America

The MASNA Pioneer Award recognizes the foundational contributions of scientists, conservationists, industry, and trade practitioners who have contributed immensely to what we perceive as today’s common knowledge.

These early pioneers explored their worlds in ways that others at the time could not imagine. Their significant accomplishments served to uplift others following in their footsteps, often through mentoring. Marine aquarium hobbyists would only be as knowledgeable and successful in their endeavors today, with the contributions of these early pioneers.

The 2024 MASNA Pioneer Award for Hobbyist Advancement

The Marine Aquarium Societies of North America (MASNA) proudly announces Ryan Batcheller as the recipient of the 2024 MASNA Pioneer Award for Hobbyist Advancement.

Ryan Batcheller’s contributions to the marine aquarium hobby are groundbreaking. His pioneering efforts in disseminating valuable information to hobbyists through the Bulk Reef Supply platform have profoundly shaped how enthusiasts worldwide approach marine aquarium husbandry.

Ryan began his journey of reefkeeping in April of 2004 with the start of his own reef tank and his first posting on a reefkeeping forum. His desire to “be better” quickly led to the development of his own coral food as a personal project. This didn’t stay personal long, and Reef Chili became available to local club members and beyond, through his then-newly established ReefChili.com, in December of that year.

In February of 2007, after seeing the positive results of using a two-part additive for his reef tank, Ryan expanded his reach and started TwoPartSolutions.com to make the method more available to a broader sector of the reefkeeping population. Then, in January of 2008, at the increased demand of his customers for more than just the two parts, Ryan evolved Two Part Solutions into Bulk Reef Supply. Ryan wanted his customers to experience a club member helping directly with their system. He felt he could accomplish that, by scaling with a relatively new online tool called YouTube. BRStv was launched in June of 2008, and Ryan quickly realized that more than additives, bulk chemicals, and custom modifications, the reefkeeping community wanted and needed, accurate, helpful information they could find all in one place.

Ryan continued to build Bulk Reef Supply, offering an ever-growing array of products. But more importantly, he expanded his efforts to inform and educate hobbyists through the BRStv channel.

Ryan has established himself as a beacon of knowledge, producing a vast array of educational, research, and instructional videos that transcend mere marketing. These videos delve into essential aspects of marine aquarium maintenance, from calcium and alkalinity supply to pH regulation, flow dynamics, lighting, and beyond. The BRStv YouTube channel following and influence grew. By 2024, after over 2,000 videos, BRStv had garnered over 100 million views! Ryan considers these 100 million questions answered one of his greatest career achievements. His ability to distill complex concepts into accessible, actionable advice has empowered countless hobbyists to achieve greater success and sustainability in their aquatic endeavors. Today, the BRS YouTube channel has more subscribers than Petco, PetSmart, and Chewy combined.
Ryan’s commitment to educating hobbyists has not only enhanced their success but has also played a crucial role in preserving marine life within reef systems worldwide.

In recognition of his unparalleled dedication and profound impact on the marine aquarium community, MASNA is honored to present Ryan Batcheller with the MASNA Pioneer Award for Hobbyist Advancement. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing the understanding and practice of marine aquarium husbandry exemplify the spirit of this prestigious award.

Please join us in congratulating Ryan Batcheller on his exceptional achievements and contributions to the marine aquarium hobby.

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Publisher’s Note: Please visit this companion post that details all of MASNA’s past honorees: Pioneer Awards, MASNA Awards, and Aquarists Of The Year.