This full-day program offers a unique blend of education, conservation, and hands-on experience, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the delicate coral ecosystems and the essential role they play in marine biodiversity.
Learning Objectives:
- Educational Session:
- Overview of Hawai’i’s Coral Reef Ecology.
- Understanding the importance of coral reefs in marine ecosystems.
- Introduction to common coral species found in Hawai’i and their significance.
- Monitoring Techniques:
- Explanation of reef monitoring and maintenance practices.
- Training on data collection methods for coral monitoring.
- Insight into the role of technology
- facial recognition software for turtle identification
- photogrammetry for substrate composition
Hands-on Activities:
Participants get to choose 1 of the following options:
- Snorkeling Excursion:
- For snorkelers, an opportunity to engage in sea turtle monitoring by snorkeling and photographing sea turtles.
- Learn to identify and name new individual turtles.
- Understand the non-invasive monitoring techniques utilized in marine conservation.
OR
- Scuba Diving Excursion
- An opportunity to engage in sea turtle monitoring using facial recognition
- An opportunity to assist in coral reef monitoring using advanced photography techniques (photogrammetry)
Full-Day Syllabus:
- PADI Discover Scuba Diver training for non-certified divers.
- Dive with an instructor to survey the coral nursery area and engage in coral monitoring.
- Certified divers will have the opportunity to participate in both dives, monitoring the reef and coral nursery.
Morning Session (9am):
- Welcome and Registration.
- Coral Reef Ecology Presentation:
- Overview of Hawai’i’s marine ecosystems.
- Importance of coral reefs for biodiversity.
Late Morning (11 am):
• Boat Boarding:
- Safety briefing.
- Distribution of snorkeling and dive equipment.
Midday:
- Coral Restoration Nursery Maintenance Dive:
- PADI Discover Scuba Diver training for non-certified divers.
- Dive with an instructor to survey the coral nursery area.
- Coral monitoring techniques for certified divers.
- For Snorkelers:
- Turtle identification using facial recognition software.
- Naming and tracking new individuals.
- Understanding non-invasive monitoring techniques.
Afternoon (3/4pm):
- Overview of collected data.
- Data Review and Discussion
- Importance of participant contributions to ongoing research.
- Certification distribution for Conservation Diver Coral Reef Conservationist certification.
This Coral Reef Ecology and Monitoring Excursion promises not only an immersive experience beneath the waves but also the chance to actively contribute to the preservation of Hawai’i’s marine treasures. Participants leave with enhanced knowledge, a sense of environmental stewardship, and unforgettable memories of the vibrant underwater world.
Includes:
- Conservation Diver Coral Reef Ecology and Monitoring Certification
- All dive/snorkel gear