Coral reef surveys and monitoring
We use the standardized Reef Check survey method to determine the health of coral reefs by looking holistically at the reef ecosystem. The methodology we use measures the number of key “indicator species” of fish and invertebrates as well as the type and condition of the coral. We also record the level of human and natural impacts at each reef we survey. We survey many reefs in our area and also monitor some reefs
Tsunami effects and recovery
We monitor reefs that were affected by the tsunami of December 2004 on the northern Andaman Sea coast to determine if they are recovering. To do this we conduct surveys for coral recruitment and regeneration, measuring coral colonies that have recently begun to grow.
Community education and capacity building
We work with local coastal communities to build capacity for long term sustainable use of coral reefs and coastal resources. Some of past projects have included coral reef camps with local schools and environmental clubs and ecotourism training for fishermen.
Our three day “Coral Reef Camp” with the Salak Phet school on Koh Chang taught 35 middle school students about the ecology, value, and threats to coral reefs on day 1. Then, on day 2 we took them all out on a dive boat to go snorkeling on their local reef. Although many of them were from fishing families, most had never snorkeled. On the last day we looked through marine fish and invertebrate guide books and each student painted a postcard of their favorite species and we did a mural for the school.
For our Ecotourism Training in conjunction with Andaman Discoveries we have worked with five local villages in along the Andaman Sea coast teaching about coral reef and marine habitat ecology and conservation and about conducting responsible ecotours. Most of the participants are fishermen who use their boats to guide tourists to coral reef for snorkeling tours. We teach about Reef Checks “Best Practices”.
In conjunction with our work in these communities we have also conducted community resource mapping, asking fisherman to map their use of important habitats and fisheries throughout the year. This data can be used to better manage the areas that are the lifeblood of these communities.
We often collaborate with other local non-profits or NGO’s, such as Andaman Discoveries, the Ecotourism Training Center, IUCN, and the Ranong Coastal Resources Research Station to combine resources for strengthened community projects.
Volunteer Expeditions
It is possible for you to join our research expeditions and help us survey and protect the reefs of the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. We run field trips from November through April each year (with an occasional trip in the Gulf of Thailand, Chumpon each June). Come stay at our island research base, learn about reef ecology and conservation and contribute to the protection of this amazing undersea biodiversity. E-mail us for specifics. Read more about our research expeditions 2009-10 schedule here.
