This is the last of a five-part series discussing the importance and future of ocean reef systems.
Over the last several days, we have addressed a growing global problem: coral reef devastation. It has been shown that coral reefs are a precious resource to the earth, and the extinction of them might very well be nigh if measures aren’t taken to protect and restore these vibrant ecosystems. Fortunately, the subject is garnering great attention worldwide, and projects are well underway creating artificial reefs and establishing protected areas. There is an immense amount of planning and care that goes into each and every site, and communities are strongly encouraged to take part in the process.
Starting your own artificial reef project is a task that cannot be taken lightly. You must first lobby for the support of your local government, environmental groups, and community as a whole to attain approval to begin. There is extensive research that goes into choosing the site, type of structure you will use, and its layout to ensure the safety of marine life, divers, anglers, and motorized vessels. You will be responsible for its funding, which means you will either use your own resources, or coordinate fundraising activities. Once all this has been accomplished and the artificial reef is established, there will need to be ongoing monitoring of the structure to record its growth, activity, and health. Additional expense may be required to resolve any issues that arise.
While this is a noble cause, it carries great risk of abandonment due to the tremendous commitment that is involved. If you truly wish to make a difference, there are plenty of options that need your assistance without bearing the entire weight on your shoulders. For the experienced diver, there are eco-expeditions worldwide wherein you will spend a length of days monitoring reef ecosystems, taking inventory and recording observations of coral and other marine life. These information gathering trips are crucial to making sure the reef is in proper health and balance, while being able to address negative issues more thoroughly.
Of course you don’t have to travel thousands of miles to lend a hand. Your local reef system may need help in installing mooring buoys, which intercept the damage boats can do by anchoring in an area populated by coral reefs. You can volunteer for a coastal clean-up project. In places where damage has occurred that can be repaired, you can be part of a team that restores these areas. For students, there are many scholarship and internship opportunities available. The vast assortment of locations and programs you can participate in are all available through a little internet research.
We all play a vital role in coral reef conservation simply through our daily actions. Participating in a recycling program helps minimize polluting the ocean with trash. Using chemical-free products to fertilize our lawns and clean our houses can reduce the toxicity of the water that eventually makes its way to the sea. When diving and snorkeling coral reefs, taking care to avoid contact with the reefs (use gear retractors and consider a Peak Performance Buoyancy course) and its species, and never taking souvenirs is critical to their advancement. Educate yourself as much as possible on the subject so that you are better equipped to make positive changes in your environment.
Above all, spread your knowledge in every way possible. There are always people out there who have no idea about certain issues, but certainly would contribute if they did! The more light we can shed on the significance of coral reef survival, the more active role we can play in helping our planet to heal and flourish.
Photos via algaedoc, Jennie – My Travels, Heal the Bay, strulock
