Watersheds and Coral Reefs

From Felix Martinez:

The University of Hawaii Kewalo Marine Laboratory and NOAA's Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research are hosting the special topic session
"Watersheds and Coral Reefs: Science, Policy and Implementation" (#076) at next year's 2008 Ocean Sciences Meeting in Orlando.

We encourage submission of abstracts focusing on integrated approaches to coral reef ecosystem management that incorporate the biophysical with the social sciences to address coral reef management from a watershed perspective. Abstract are due on
October 02, 2007. The session description is as follows:

Watersheds and Coral Reefs: Science, Policy and Implementation
Robert Richmond, Kewalo Marine Laboratory, University of Hawaii at Manoa, richmond@hawaii.edu
Felix Martinez, NOAA, Felix.Martinez@noaa.gov
Michael Dowgiallo, NOAA, Michael.Dowgiallo@noaa.gov

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 coastal reefs surrounding high islands and adjacent to continental landmasses. Scientific data exist that identify key stressors, synergisms, and outcomes at the coral reef ecosystem, community and population levels. These data demonstrate that marine protected areas alone are insufficient for coral reef protection and that integrated watershed management practices in upland areas are also needed. Gaps in the effectiveness of environmental policy, legislation and regulatory enforcement have resulted in the continued degradation of U.S 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. Case histories in Micronesia and elsewhere provide insight on how biophysical data can be applied to manage human behaviors responsible for coral reef destruction, through the social sciences.

Please note that this solicitation for abstracts does not constitute an offer for financial assistance to attend the meeting. For more information on this session and questions on the suitability of an abstract contact Dr. Bob Richmond or Dr. Felix Martinez.