We aim to inspire, educate, and foster a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s beauty. Through stories that highlight the beauty of biodiversity and pictures that capture the essence of our oceans, we will encourage people to support the ocean as the blue of our planet, driving lasting change.

The Amazing Charleston Water Keepers and Their Work

“In this time of climate warming and climate denial, we need to focus on hope. But not just hope alone. Hope, with action, leads to results; hope without action is a fantasy. This is Charleston Water Keepers’ contribution through their works.” Tony Barthelme is the author of Rising Waters and a four-time Pulitzer Prize Finalist.

Paradise Lost - Collapse of a Coral Reef Ecosystem of Bonaire

Our dive in Bonaire, since 2022, was near the epicenter of where the stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) was first detected in 2023. We can not believe the extent of coral damage. Nearly 80% of the stony corals from 30 feet to 90 feet were dead. The marine heatwave of 2023 and the spread SCTLD had transformed a once-vibrant reef into a landscape devoid of the abundance of marine life. We met with the staff of Reef Renewal Bonaire and participated in a coral outplanting project.

Lobed Star Coral, Mountainous Star Coral

Reef Renewal Bonaire Foundation (RRBF) and VIP Diving

After exploring the coral reefs of Bonaire, we wanted to learn how Reef Renewal is working to restore them. To assist with the nurseries and the transplantation of coral, all divers must complete the Reef Renewal Diver Course. We spent two days taking the course with VIP Diving, where our instructor, Sean Price, demonstrated his extensive knowledge. He has been volunteering with Reef Renewal, caring for the nursery at Sebastian Reef and collecting coral spawn. This experience was a wonderful opportunity to give back to the community.

Mangrove - Lac Bay Blue Carbon Nursery

As we kayaked through the mangrove forest of Lac Bay, we felt a deep appreciation for this vital ecosystem. It supports the biodiversity of Lac Bay and the eastern Bonaire reefs while helping to combat climate change. We saw how this forest provides shelter for juvenile fish, while providing livelihoods for local fishermen, and boosts regional tourism. Mangroves can sequester carbon at rates much higher than those of mature tropical forests, as well as preventing sediments from suffocating the turtle grass and corals of Lac Bay. It is no wonder that a local group, the Mangrove Maniacs, has worked so hard to restore it by digging channels.

Caribbean Island Manta Conservation Program

While sightings of manta rays are rare on Bonaire, the island is home to the Caribbean Island Manta Conservation Program. I have photographed manta rays at Manta Bay off Nusa Penida in Bali and enjoy interacting with these magnificent creatures. Therefore, when I found out that Nicole Pelletier, the Project Leader, was presenting her "Manta Monday" talk, I knew I had to attend. She provided a wealth of information about Caribbean manta rays and devil rays.

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