Coral reefs, vital to marine life and economic value, face threats like climate change and diseases, severely affecting their cover in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. NOAA's Office of Habitat Conservation, recognizing this crisis, has awarded nearly $40 million for coral restoration in the region. This funding includes $10.6 million to the Institute for Socio-Ecological Research (ISER) in Puerto Rico, where Dr. Stacey Williams and her team have pioneered coral restoration techniques. Their work involves outplanting coral micro-fragments, releasing sea urchins and crabs to control algae, and expanding facilities for breeding disease-resistant corals and marine herbivores, providing over 60 local jobs.

Collaboration has been crucial in this restoration effort. Dr. Williams, through her Ph.D. research, successfully reared Diadema antillarum, a vital sea urchin for algae control, overcoming a major restoration challenge. ISER's efforts, in collaboration with partners like Mote Marine Laboratory, have led to the release of thousands of adult Diadema on reefs and the outplanting of endangered corals. These actions are showing positive impacts on the reefs and are supported by decades of data from local coral monitoring.

The urgency of this mission has escalated with recent widespread bleaching events in Caribbean waters. ISER, with augmented resources, has been rescuing and recovering corals while preparing for future outplanting. Their expanded team, comprising Puerto Rican scientists and students, is not only upgrading facilities but also engaging in groundbreaking research to cultivate more resilient coral species.

This project embodies hope and empowerment for the local community. Young Puerto Ricans like Noel Carrera are driven by the desire to restore their home's natural beauty and are actively involved in research, restoration, and community outreach. Their dedication, along with a comprehensive, ecosystem-based approach, is a beacon of hope for the future of coral reefs in Puerto Rico and beyond.