How to Help the Coral Reefs

Learning About the Reef

It is an unfortunate fact that many of our coral reefs are dying. Coral reefs, the largest living structure on the planet, are dying from pollution, erosion, fishing, and coastal development. There are things we can do to help the coral reef, even if we live in areas far from the ocean. To do your part, help the coral reefs and the marine life that depend on them by following these simple steps.

Things You'll Need

• Poster board
• Computer
• Computer paper

Instructions

1. Ask your school's science teacher for help. Most likely they are aware of the situation and will gladly give you information or help you with a project.

2. Some marine biology teachers have open house or a Marine Biology Informational Night. This is a good time to speak to your community about the coral reefs and how we need to help protect them.

3. Make posters and create informational brochures then place them in the community. Be sure to also place them where there are boaters, businesses with aquariums, marinas and other places of like interests.

4. Have a fund drive and donate the money to one of the many marine protected areas.

5. Talk about the reefs and the dangers they face to anyone who will listen.

6. Take a vacation and volunteer for a reef cleanup during the time you're on the coast.

7. Write your legislators and let them know how important it is to save the coral reef. If you remind politicians there are five hundred million people that depend on the coral reefs for their food and livelihoods it will help peak their interest.

Resources

• Reef Relief
• Nature Conservancy