Watersheds and Coral Reefs: Science, Policy and Implementation

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, Florida, USA.

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. Please note that
abstract are due on October 02, 2007. Contact any of the session chairs for additional information on the session.

The session description is as follows:
*076 Watersheds and Coral Reefs: Science, Policy and Implementation*
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.

** Note: This call for abstracts shall not be construed as an offer of
financial support to attend the meeting. **

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Felix A. Martinez, Ph.D.
NOAA/NOS/NCCOS
Center for Sponsored Coastal Ocean Research
N/SCI2, SSMC4 Rm. 8326 ph: 301-713-3338 x153
1305 East-West Hwy. fax: 301-713-4044
Silver Spring, MD 20910 email: felix.martinez@noaa.gov