Project update - Fiji Reef Conservation Project - February 2004
Added to website: 01 February 2004
Project Brief
Aim
The Fiji Coral Reef Conservation Project is a three-year project (2002-2005) to survey coral reefs of the Mamanuca Islands, the Yasawa Islands and other areas of Fiji. The programme provides training and conservation education opportunities for local Fijians, as part of an integrated programme to develop local capacity and ensure the long-term protection and sustainable use of marine resources throughout the region.
Location
Ravinaki, Castaway Island, Mamanuca Islands, West Coast Viti Levu, Fiji.
CCC Partners
CCC is working at the invitation of and in partners with the Government of Fiji, local communities, the tourism sector and other groups.
Marine Science Programme
Baseline Surveys
Number and location of Surveys
Surveying continued at three sectors this month, with 10 surveys at Lau, 15 at Nuku and 14 surveys at Malolo Outer Barrier.
Number of transects completed and opened
The Lau sector is nearing completion, with few patches left to survey, and Nuku sector is over halfway to completion.
Reef Check
None this month.
Interesting / Unusual Sightings
In addition to the usual white and black tip reef sharks we have reported two grey reef sharks and a 2 metre long nurse shark, who was not impressed by our surveyors at Malolo Barrier. Both a hawksbill turtle (on house reef) and a leatherback turtle (on Inner Barrier) were highlights for the divers concerned. However the prize for the best sightings goes to our outgoing SO Orea, who managed to spot a Manta ray from the boat to Malolo Barrier, and the on her final dive a 2 metre Guitarfish on the Inner Barrier.
Environmental Awareness
Capacity Building/Training of Local Counterparts
We are currently liasing with local resorts to schedule evening talks on reef awareness, for visitors and staff throughout next month.
The Malolo District School Reef Awareness Programme
Early February saw the launch of the Malolo District School Coral Reef Awareness Programme for a third successive year. A 12-week series of sessions are to be conducted with the class 7s (11-13 year olds). This lively group of 15 enthusiastic and intelligent children has been a pleasure to teach so far. The first session established a baseline of prior knowledge upon which future session could build a comprehensive understanding of the reef and associated processes. None of the children had ever had the opportunity to view the reef underwater, even using snorkel equipment. Topics covered to date include An Introduction to Hard Corals, including requirements for growth and where they grow in the world, Reef Fish, Fishing Practices, Importance of and Threats to the Reef, a beach-based Litter collection exercise and an Introduction to Coastal Zone Management and Marine Protected Areas.
The last session will involve a trip across the village tabu (protected) area in a glass-bottomed boat. This has been a no-take zone for a year now and recent reef check indicate impressive ecosystem replenishment. Aesthetic ratings have ranged between good and very good. Such an activity would represent a unique opportunity for the children to experience first hand the beauty of the reefs on their doorstep. The programme will culminate in a school production with the class performing lessons revolving around what they have learned throughout the programme to families and fellow community members. Both Coral Cay volunteers and class members are thoroughly enjoying the programme.
The Best Practise Guidelines for Water Activities and Snorkelling for the Mamanuca Islands
The final stages of the Best Practises workshops were conducted with Tavarua, Namotu and Waidigi resorts. The initiative was aimed at reducing the direct impact of tourists on the reef. The two-day workshop involved a introduction to coral reefs, outlined threats to the reef, highlighted various reef creatures of interest and outlined guidelines for best practise in water sports activities. The session ended with training in giving environmental briefs to guests when hading out sports equipment. Sessions included a snorkel on the resort reef to point out and give information on interesting aspects of the marine biota. It was pleasing to note the number of mataqali (traditional reef-owning clan) members present at these workshops, who adopted a custodial sense of respect for this precious environment.
These workshops were very successful: a fun and informative session for all participants and number of resorts have already requested a follow-up session.
