Countless species co-exist as a result of the framework and structure created by fragile reef building coral organisms. Productive reefs contribute to a healthy economy, creating habitat for many fish and related species with commercial and recreational value. Reefs also support tourism and recreational industries, providing diving and snorkeling destinations, and sheltering beaches from the forces of waves. The natural breakdown of reefs produces abundant sediments that sustain beaches. Coral reef related activities provide a significant economic benefit for many regions of the United States and worldwide.
Recent evidence indicates that coral reefs are deteriorating worldwide, and many are in crisis.
Symptoms of this decline include the loss of hard corals, an increased abundance of algae, and a dramatic increase in bleaching episodes and disease outbreaks. Human impacts act separately and in combination with natural factors such as hurricanes, high water temperature, and disease, to stress corals and degrade reef systems. The rapid and widespread degradation of coral reefs led President Clinton to sign Executive Order 13089, A Coral Reef Protection. An interagency Coral Reef Task Force, including NOAA, was established to implement the Executive Order. The initial focus of this initiative will be Pacific coral reef ecosystems, to be followed by a counterpart study in the Atlantic.