Coral Restoration

Join certified restoration practitioner and biologist Andrew Taylor and the Blue Corner team of professional marine biologists on an ongoing coral restoration project in Nusa Penida Marine Park. During this week you will learn about techniques and up-to-date science on coral reef restoration, as well as take part in the project.

This week long course is conducted as a training workshop. Each student receives a Blue Corner Marine Research Coral Restoration Handbook, and receives certification for training.

Day 1:  We start in the classroom learning about restoration ecology and types of coral restoration projects. The first diving day is then spent surveying impact sites and viewing a selection of coral restoration projects taking place on the island. 

Day 2:  We discuss and develop a restoration plan. Followed by a site assessment of the restoration area including mapping and identification of species present.

Day 3:  We begin by building modular reef structures on shore. We then install the reef structures in a suitable areathe to promote coral growth and stabilization.

Day 4: Focus on the biologicial aspects of restoration including species selection and community composition. Underwater work includes selecting suitable donor sites for collecting coral transplants. Transplanting corals onto the coral restoration site.

Day 5: Building the coral nursery and maintenance of the restoration site.

Day 6: Develop a monitoring plan in the classroom. Dive and conduct monitoring surveys at the site. Inspect and monitor some of the older areas of the restoration site and look for growth.