This month, Surfrider and a coalition of partners achieved a major milestone in the protection of Puerto Rico's marine ecosystems: the creation of Submerged Gardens Natural Reserve of Vega Baja and Manatí on the north coast of Puerto Rico. The reserve protects 43,701 acres of marine ecosystems and was made possible by a collaboration and commitment of local communities, environmental organizations, and local authorities. The reserve is home to a variety of coral species, including one of the largest assemblies of Elkhorn coral in the Caribbean, as well as other threatened and endangered marine life.
The Importance of Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are much more than a refuge for marine wildlife- they are one of the four natural barriers that protect our coasts from the impact of high tides, especially during hurricane season, and climate change. These coral formations act as natural breakwaters, reducing the energy of waves before they reach the coast, which helps prevent coastal erosion and protect nearby communities. Without these barriers, the coasts would be much more exposed to natural disasters, putting both marine life and human safety at risk.
A Living Laboratory Under the Sea
The new reserve serves as a living laboratory under the sea. In this environment, crucial research is carried out and coral restoration initiatives are developed. Through these activities, thousands of coral fragments are obtained that are then used to restore reefs elsewhere in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. This process not only helps to recover damaged ecosystems but also contributes to the resilience of our coasts in the face of climate change and other environmental threats.
The Largest Assembly of Elkhorn Coral
Submerged Gardens Natural Reserve of Vega Baja and Manatí is home to the largest assembly in the Caribbean of Acropora palmata reefs, commonly known as Elkhorn coral. This species of coral, essential to the health of marine ecosystems, has been particularly vulnerable to changes in the environment, but thanks to conservation efforts, we are seeing a resurgence of these corals in the region. Elkhorn coral reefs are not only vital for biodiversity but also play a crucial role in protecting our coasts and promoting the overall health of the oceans.
An Advance in Environmental Legislation and Awareness
The recent approval and signing of the law by the Governor of Puerto Rico marks a significant step towards the conservation and protection of these vital ecosystems. This achievement underscores the positive impact we can achieve when we work together for the sake of nature. The creation of this reserve will not only preserve this important coral habitat but will also promote education and awareness about the importance of coral reefs, inspiring future generations to continue this essential work.
Our Gratitude and Ongoing Commitment
At Surfrider Foundation, we are deeply grateful to everyone who has taken action to support the creation of the reserve. Through collective efforts and decisive actions, we have managed to ensure a more sustainable future for our oceans. But our work is not over. We invite everyone to continue supporting initiatives like this and to stay informed about how they can contribute to the protection of our natural resources.
Surfrider would like to thank its coalition partners: Grupo Vegabajeños Impulsando el Desarrollo Ambiental Sostenible (V.I.D.A.S.), Descendientes Unidos por la Naturaleza, la Adaptación y la Sostenibilidad (D.U.N.A.S.), Municipio Autónomo de Manatí, la Comunidad Pro Reserva Natural, Movimiento Reflexiona y Actúa, Outcome Project, Marullo Sostenible, Colectivo Vegabajeños Unidos, Manatí Scuba, Corsarios, Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Yo Amo Al Tinglar, and HJR Reefscaping.