Putting Those Skills to Use

The timing of this collaboration is significant, as Bahamian reef systems are currently facing unprecedented urgent and serious threats. Recent spikes in ocean temperatures have wreaked havoc on coral reefs in The Bahamas, triggering extensive coral bleaching and threatening to erase the marine beauty integral to the region. Adding to this catastrophe is the onslaught of the Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD) pandemic. Without drastic action, these twin dangers will have long-lasting repercussions on the Bahamian way of life – which is inextricably connected to the sea.

To help mitigate the effects of SCTLD, a new coral nursery was established in May offshore of Lighthouse Point, Eleuthera, thanks to a dynamic collaboration between Disney Cruise Line, PIMS, and the Cape Eleuthera Institute. This nursery is dedicated to cultivating critically endangered staghorn and elkhorn corals, with scientists meticulously selecting the most resilient specimens to withstand coral bleaching. These robust corals are then  relocated to struggling reefs in the area. Disney has worked since 2007 to rehabilitate coral reefs in The Bahamas, including donating millions of dollars from the Disney Conservation Fund to important conservation projects.

In June, two DEPP officers visited the coral nursery managed by PIMS at Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point to place new coral onto fish habitats that Disney installed beside the island destination’s trestle pier. These unique fish habitats use native limestone from the island to conserve local marine environments. PIMS and Disney are proud to share their work with the young professionals at DEPP who are committed to preserving these vital marine habitats. Notably, one of the officers  earned her SCUBA certification during this trip.

Research and Regulation for the Blue Economy

Coral reefs in the US contribute a remarkable $3.4 billion to the economy each year. On a global scale, that figure skyrockets to an astounding $2.7 trillion. Bahamian reefs, with a potential value of $135 million per square kilometer, stand not only as ecological wonders but also as significant economic pillars. These reefs play a vital role in serving as natural barriers against severe weather, supporting the seafood industry, and providing a sanctuary for diverse marine life, thus ensuring the livelihood of local communities, creating jobs, and safeguarding coastlines. Undoubtedly, the imperative to protect and sustain them is paramount.

Through the collaborative efforts of PIMS, Disney Cruise Line, and local regulatory bodies, The Bahamas is raising awareness on the importance of protecting these reefs and responding to the coral crisis with vigor. As a collaboration between regulators, researchers, and conservationists, this new alliance hopes to steer The Bahamas towards a future where marine conservation isn’t just a goal but an intrinsic part of the nation’s ethos.

This capacity building effort is a cornerstone of PIMS’ strategy to preserve the natural beauty of The Bahamas, made possible through the unwavering support of Disney. Bradley Watson, Conservation Program Manager at Disney, said: “Seeing those nine newly certified SCUBA divers was a dream come true for us at Disney. We believe in the Bahamian Blue Economy and we know that the public sector needs skilled officers to protect the ecosystems that economy is built on. Every time a new student, public servant, or nature lover puts on their gear and takes their first big step off the back of a boat, our marine resources get a little safer and our future gets a little brighter.”