Kauaʻi's First Coral Restoration Nursery

Why coral restoration on Kauaʻi?

• Coral reefs in Hawaiʻi have experienced a dramatic decline, with up to 30-50% of coral loss in the past 30 years. This alarming trend reflects a global crisis, where coral mortality rates have surged. As keystone species, corals are critical to the health of reef ecosystems. Much like society's efforts to restore forests, many regions around the world have initiated active coral restoration projects to combat this decline. Without intervention, coral reefs—and the ecosystems they support—may not survive.

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• Some coral species, particularly those affected by climate change and ocean acidification, grow very slowly and are incredibly old. In Hawaiʻi, reef-building corals grow at a rate of just 1-2 cm per year. This means that a coral the size of a dining room table has been growing for decades, if not centuries, and will remain only as long as its environment continues to support it.

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• Despite widespread coral bleaching events over the past decade, not all corals are dying. Some corals have shown remarkable resilience, surviving through these traumatic events. These "super corals" are invaluable, as they have adapted to withstand harsh conditions. However, many of these resilient corals have settled on temporary or decaying man-made structures, such as moorings, underwater debris, or old submerged dock pilings. If left unchecked, these corals will perish along with the structures they’ve colonized. By rescuing and transplanting them to healthier environments, we can use these resilient corals to restore reefs and support coral populations that may not have developed the same resilience.

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• Taking action is always better than doing nothing. While it's easy to get caught up in debates over the best solutions to environmental challenges, the reality is that previous generations were stewards of the land, working with what they had to ensure its survival. We have the same responsibility today. The actions we take now will shape the world we leave for future generations. When asked about the world as it once was—with thriving coral reefs and lush forests—what will we say? It’s all connected, and we each have the power to make a positive impact on the environment with the tools and skills we possess today. 

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• Coral restoration efforts are underway across the main Hawaiian Islands, each project playing a crucial role in preserving and restoring our reef ecosystems. From the Big Island to Oʻahu, dedicated teams have been working tirelessly to protect and rehabilitate coral reefs. These projects serve as vital examples of how local communities can come together to combat the effects of climate change, ocean acidification, and other threats to coral health.

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• On Kauaʻi, the journey to establish the Kauaʻi Coral Restoration Nursery has been one of perseverance and dedication. Our project organizers have worked for years to bring this vision to life, driven by a deep commitment to preserving our island’s natural heritage. By establishing this nursery, we’re joining the larger network of coral restoration across Hawaiʻi, ensuring that Kauaʻi’s unique coral species have a fighting chance to thrive for generations to come.