Coral reefs are nurseries of the ocean. Healthy reefs are vital for human health. Divers can be the difference between a healthy reef and a tragedy. Coral reefs are a vital component of ocean ecosystems, providing shelter for nearly one quarter of all marine life.
Coral reefs are among the world's most fragile and endangered ecosystems.
Coral reefs are threatened by global warming, overfishing, coastal development, sewage, agricultural runoff, improper marine recreation and a variety of other human-related problems. The loss of healthy coral reefs would mean the extinction of thousands of marine species, as well as the elimination of a primary source of food, income and employment for millions of people around the world. Grants have been used to purchase outboard motors for boats used to patrol marine protected areas, help curb cyanide fishing practices, and provide emergency relief for hurricane-struck reefs. Other grants have supported marine protected areas and funded coral reef monitoring and reports on reef health. Your membership contribution will go toward supporting our programs and worldwide conservation efforts.