Coral Reef Monitoring
Monitoring pays off. Reef Guardianʻs north shore Kauaʻi monitoring activities led to the discovery and ultimate removal by Hawaiʻi Division of Aquatic Resources (DAR) of an array of non-native coral in Wanini / ʻAnini lagoon. The story was covered by numerous news agencies, which is very helpful in raising awareness regarding coral aquarium laws in Hawaiʻi and. protecting the reefs.
It is illegal to keep coral of any kind in aquariums in Hawaiʻi without a permit, as well as taking any coral or live rock from the ocean. To learn more about this and the exciting 3-year long hunt for the beautiful, but misplaced colonies, follow these links.
Coral diseases have been playing a major role in the decline of several native coral species surrounding Kauai and neighboring islands. Coral Bleaching, Black Band disease, Cyanobacteria, and unbalanced algal growth are threats that continue to damage the living coral populations significantly.
Reef Guardians is working to innovate coral health monitoring and research technology.
We are investigating the sources of pollution coming from land in order to reduce stress to the coral and possible human infection.
Partnering with WAI (Wastewater Alternatives and Innovations) and working closely with Kauaʻi DAR (Division of Aquatic Resources), our water quality testing program has completed Phase 1 testing at north shore outflow sites and is gearing up for a 2-year QAPP study of the Wanini / ʻAnini area.
Cyanobacteria, algal growth and coral disease overwhelming coral colonies in ʻAnini / Wanini lagoon.
Our children's Reef Camps over the last six years are expanding Kaua'i's community awareness of the coral reef habitat and human impact. The many hundreds of participating families share increased concern for the health of the coral and commitment to acting in protective ways.
We have initiated a long term relationship with Hawaii Technology Academy involving teen youth in our AI technology coral monitoring development as well as our in-depth on-going study of the Anini watershed and lagoon. With our community's involvement and local, state and federal agencies, we continue to expand our education and research programs benefiting Hawaii's coral.
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