Watershed-to-Reef: New Approach for Coral Reef Management

Results from a 2020 study highlight the interconnectivity between watershed areas and neighboring coral reefs on the island of Bonaire. This study provided evidence that coral reefs near areas with high erosion risk were more likely to show signs of deteriorating health than neighboring reefs. New emphasis on watershed-to-reef management will be critical for designing future conservation plans.

For more information, see the full report here: van der Geest, M., Meesters, E., Mücher, C.A. (2020). Impact of terrestrial erosion on coral reef health at Bonaire: a plea for nature-inclusive “watershed-to-reef” based coastal management. Wageningen University & Research report C055/20

Article published in BioNews 40