The CNP team combine local site knowledge with scientific research to optimise the husbandry practice. 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. As is the CNP model, scientific approaches help guide practitioners on which species and growth forms to grow based on site ecology and needs.
Our model to achieve local benefits and collective scale is through the integration of innovative science to advance practice. In collaboration with our partners and other researchers, members of the Future Reefs Team undertake scientific studies to provide evidenced based decision making for CNP. While the research portfolio is diverse, current priority research areas are on advancing choice selection for propagation materials to increase local site resilience to ongoing environmental change. Currently the team is trialling a novel phenotyping system to select more thermally tolerant corals to integrate into the propagation practice. 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, CNP practices are continuously evolving which allows iterative learning to achieve best practice. The collective network of CNP operators provides the unique opportunity to trial novel scientific tools to optimise planting and propagation techniques across different daily operation models. A foundational part of the integration into practice is ensuring site protection is achieved through local management practices, responsible tourism and Marine Park regulations. All regulatory activities – including those for coral propagation and planting – are aligned to the core effective management policies and practices of the Great Barrier Reef.
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