The Nature Conservancy (TNC), which has worked in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) for over a decade, is collaborating with the Marshall Islands Conservation Society (MICS) to help protect coral reefs that are more resilient to climate change, called reef refugia. “As reefs around the world face growing threats, protecting those that show signs of resilience is more important than ever,” said Ms. Dolores deBrum-Kattil, Executive Director of MICS. “Reef refugia offer an opportunity to safeguard marine biodiversity and build more resilient communities in island nations like ours, which are especially vulnerable to climate change.”
Scientists from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and Stanford University used high resolution oceanographic models of Majuro to predict where heat-resistant corals are likely to survive. These predictions were then tested in the field to confirm the predictions of the model. The results of the study confirmed Laura, in the southern part of the Majuro Atoll, as an area where corals show tolerance to high temperatures, making it a key site for coral conservation.
MICS is now working closely with decision-makers, community members, landowners, and local partners to build awareness and support for the long-term protection of the reef. Last December, MICS led outreach sessions with local schools to highlight the importance of managing and restoring coral reefs. They are also leading efforts to formally designate the area as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) through a local ordinance issued by the Majuro Atoll Local Government. Community consultations are ongoing to finalize this designation and ensure it reflects local priorities. So far, the community has expressed strong support for the MPA.
“We will continue working with our international and local partners to identify coral reef refugia, expanding these efforts to Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia,” said Dr. Yimnang Golbuu, Coral Resilience Director at TNC. “Combining local knowledge with new science is key to finding and protecting these special reefs that give us a better chance for the future.”