However, there is an urgent need to control sediment and nutrient inputs from developed land if the reefs are to be kept in a healthy state for the benefits of fisheries and tourism. The reserve system is already helping to control damaging algal growth by restoring plant-eating fish populations. This must be accompanied by measures controlling pollution from land. Land clearance on shorelines and close to rivers should be undertaken only with a full appreciation of the harmful effects of such activities on coral reefs. One simple way that everybody can help protect the reefs is to stop cutting back vegetation to the bare soil.
Plants keep the soil on the land.
When you cut, leave some plants behind for healthier land and healthier reefs. Copyright 2001, Soufriere Marine Management Association. All Rights Reserved.