Home > Explore Data & Reports > Watersheds and coral reefs: conservation science, policy and implementation

Citation:

Richmond, R.H., T. Rongo, Y. Golbuu, S. Victor, N. Idechong, G. Davis, W. Kostka, L. Neth, M. Hamnett, and E. Wolanski. 2007. Watersheds and coral reefs: conservation science, policy and implementation. BioScience, 57(7):598-607. https://doi.org/10.1641/B570710

Data/Report Type:

Sponsored Research

Description

Coral reefs worldwide are being degraded by human-induced disturbances, resulting in ecological, economic, and cultural losses. Runoff and sedimentation are among the greatest threats to the coastal reefs surrounding high islands and adjacent to continental landmasses. Existing scientific data identify the key stressors, synergisms, and outcomes at the coral reef ecosystem, community, and population levels. These data demonstrate that marine protected areas alone may be insufficient for coral reef protection; integrated watershed management practices are also needed. Gaps in the effectiveness of environmental policy, legislation, and regulatory enforcement have resulted in the continued degradation of US and Australian reefs. Several Pacific islands, with intact resource stewardship and traditional leadership systems, have been able to apply research findings to coral reef management policies relatively quickly. Three case histories in Micronesia provide insight into how social sciences and biophysical data can be combined to manage human behaviors responsible for coral reef destruction.

Note to readers with disabilities: Some scientific publications linked from this website may not conform to Section 508 accessibility standards due to the complexity of the information being presented. If you need assistance accessing this electronic content, please contact the lead/corresponding author, Primary Contact, or nccos.webcontent@noaa.gov.

Explore Similar Data/Reports

About NCCOS

NCCOS delivers ecosystem science solutions for stewardship of the nation’s ocean and coastal resources to sustain thriving coastal communities and economies.

Stay Connected

Sign up for our quarterly newsletter or view our archives.

NCCOS Multimedia

Visit our new NCCOS Multimedia Gallery. 

Follow us on Social

Listen to our Podcast

Check out our new podcast "Coastal Conversations"