The Coral Nurture Program team combine local site knowledge with scientific research to optimise reef restoration practices. Initial learnings include the development of a novel physical attachment device, the Coralclip® (developed by John Edmondson from Wavelength Reef Cruises), to increase the speed and cost-efficiency of coral planting, and the CNP model, applying scientific approaches to guide practitioners on which species and growth forms to grow based on site ecology and needs.
In collaboration with our partners and other researchers, members of the Future Reefs Team undertake scientific studies to provide evidenced based decision making for Coral Nurture Program. While our research portfolio is diverse, our current research priority is to advance choice selection of coral stock for propagating and planting, to increase local site resilience to ongoing environmental change. The program is working to use science to transition community restoration from being reactive to proactive. Graphic: Howlett et al. 2022. Ocean & Coastal Management 225
Through our scientific learnings and community knowledge, Coral Nurture Program practices are continuously evolving which allows for iterative learning to achieve best practice. A foundational part of the integration into practice is ensuring site protection is implemented alongside local management practices, responsible tourism and Marine Park regulations.
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