Support the U.S. Coral Reef Initiative by writing to your local government for greater allocation of resources. They help support the research and monitoring of our reefs and ecosystems. It makes sure resources are used effectively and that the information flow on the state of these reefs is maintained. By building partnerships between scientists, non-government organizations, federal and state agencies and the public, new activities protecting coral reefs will be coordinated and built upon.
Learn more about the destruction of coral reefs. The destruction of reefs is caused by direct physical damage, coral collection, bad fishing practices and marine pollution. It is estimated globally that 20 percent to 30 percent of coral reefs will be destroyed irreparably within the next 10 years. In America, for example, the Florida Keys coral reef has been adversely affected by the pressre of increased recreational activities, by run-off effluent from toxic pollutants and vessel groundings. The government has increased pressure to protect this reef as it provides $440 million a year from tourism and commercial fishing.
Help support local programs for the cleaning up of marine debris and encourage the use of day-use moorings by tourists. One example of these programs is led by the American Reef Coalition, which harvests and introduces healthy corals onto coral reefs, giving space for small reef fish to shelter. This in turn should help bring in larger predatory fish into the area, leading to the creation of a healthy marine coral ecosystem.
Join the American Reef Coalition on Facebook. Alternatively, you might like to adopt a coral reef for which you will receive a logoT-shirt, a deed of adoption with your name on it, a logo sticker and a thank you letter. When in a reef area, support those businesses you know are coral reef friendly. Not anchoring in a reef will help reduce damage -- use mooring buoy systems instead. When diving in a reef do not touch the coral, as it can cause damage.
