Palau International Coral Reef Center 2012 Annual Report

A measure of

Certaintyin a changing world

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 1 © Ian Shive

2 Cover photo © Ian Shive The power of certainty

Investing in MPAs... More fish, maybe

Investing in MPAs

and PICRC...

Peace of mind

You wouldn’t invest money in the stock market without paying an agent to track and report on your investments. Why take chances with your most important natural resources?

Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) require large investments of people, time, equipment, space, and emotion to be successful. The Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) is the only organization in Palau tracking and reporting on the performance of Palau’s MPAs. The information PICRC provides tells Palau’s communities and policymakers whether changes are needed in the location or management of MPAs. With more information and better management, MPAs are more likely to provide more fish.

You have already invested in MPAs. Invest in PICRC for only pennies more on the dollar and get the most valuable return: peace of mind.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 3 Message from the Chief Executive Officer

year we will support a full-time Business Manager What a year it has been! who will be dedicated to helping us seek new donors This year has been busy – we transitioned to a new and to ensuring that our money-generating efforts Chief Executive Officer, developed a new strategic continue to improve and grow. plan, tracked a typhoon, and passed a protocol. Some days were tough, most days were busy, and Some of the highlights for 2011 and 2012 include: every day we were amazed, inspired, and humbled  The start of capital improvements to the by the grandeur of our environment and our aquarium and research facilities. communities.  Development of a new system to better track our inventory and equipment. We continue to recover and grow from the financial  Hiring of an Extension Agent to improve difficulties we faced in 2010. Knowing that others outreach and other communications. have invested in the development of the Center,  Expanded education programs, including we invested in improving our operations. Based on everything from ranger trainings to television the recommendations of an external evaluation, broadcasts, as we tried new ways to share our and those of our Board, communities, and peers, discoveries. we are taking steps to be financially sustainable,  Adoption of the Protected Area Monitoring internationally relevant, and better at linking our Protocol by the Minister of Natural Resources, research to education. Environment and Tourism to be used for the Palau Protected Areas Network (PAN). I am particularly thankful for, and humbled by, the Aspects of the protocol are also being used support we received from our local communities by other Micronesia Challenge members in 2011 and 2012. Over 425 individuals, groups, (Republic of the Marshall Islands and the and businesses donated to PICRC, in addition to Federated States of Micronesia). We are proud generous contributions from states and the Olbiil that our work is not only relevant for Palau, Era Kelulau (OEK). Some gave a few dollars, some but also for other countries and will be used in gave thousands, and every donation inspired us to the region. keep working. We are cognizant of the Center’s work to be unique We are managing the Center’s assets more and vitally important to the sustainability of Palau’s efficiently, and have reduced all our expenses by natural resources and the communities that rely 14%. At the end of the 2011 fiscal year, we had a net on them. For this reason, we have included in deficit of $36,177. We continue to cut our expenses our agenda responsive research and associated and raise revenues and by the end of fiscal year 2012, education based on the needs of our communities. we had a net surplus of $31,164. I am happy that this When Typhoon Bopha dislodged coral heads 4 © Ian Shive and damaged homes across Palau in December  Also in 2012, we received a grant for a 2012, the impacts of global climate change were collaborative project with the University of the made painfully clear to all of us. We responded Ryukyus. Benefits from this project include immediately by tracking damaged and resilient two full scholarships for our researchers to marine areas and sharing that information with our pursue Master’s degrees along with numerous nation’s leaders and tourism groups. Additionally, specialized training and development our research showing declines in sea cucumbers led activities for the entire staff. to the shelving of plans to lift a ban on their export. These incidents validate our endeavor to conduct Our new 2013 strategy keeps us focused on those research that is locally and internationally relevant, areas that most need study, and provides us with and which leads to immediate change. guidelines for ensuring that information is used. Our new vision aptly describes our three core areas: As important as the Center’s scientific research people, science, and management. and contributions to improved management are, perhaps our most enduring legacy is our investment I am proud that PICRC is stable and influential in people. We are proud of the role we play in enough to have such a progressive theme for this developing a workforce that is highly trained and year’s annual report: Certainty. Through our hard versatile, and thus better able to respond to a work, our communities and policymakers can be changing world. more certain that their actions will lead to a better  We have trained hundreds of people, locally future. and abroad, in underwater and socioeconomic monitoring skills which are needed to better We at the Palau International Coral Reef Center manage marine resources. thank you for your support, funding, ideas, patience,  We have developed young people to be globally persistence, and commitment over the years. We competitive, well-informed workers who can look forward to many more years of partnership, contribute to Palau’s economy and improve and to the wonderful discoveries the future holds. our quality of life.  In 2012, we hired a new Researcher with a background not in natural resources, but in political science. She has since learned field survey and scientific methods and her first peer-reviewed manuscript, “Palau’s taro Yimnang Golbuu, Ph.D. fields and mangroves protect the coral reefs Chief Executive Officer by trapping eroded fine sediment” has been Palau International Coral Reef Center accepted for publication in a scientific journal. Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 5 Our Vision People empowered with science and knowledge for effective marine conservation and management.

Our Mission To be an international Center of Excellence to support conservation and management for the perpetuation of marine and associated environments through research and education that is significant to Palau and relevant to the world.

People • Science • Management • Center o f Excellence

6 © Ian Shive Our Nation The Republic of Palau is an amazing found anywhere in the world, with 1387 place, underwater, on land, and in our species known. Palau’s marine systems homes. The westernmost archipelago support a thriving dive tourism industry in Micronesia, Palau consists of 20 in addition to commercial, recreational, large islands and 566 smaller ones, and subsistence fisheries. They also spread out over a distance of over 800 provide Palau with important ecological km. Palau is an area of very high coral services. Palau’s marine ecosystems reef biodiversity, with 425 species of are subject to both human and natural reef-building corals recorded. Palau’s pressures, such as overfishing, heavy biological richness approaches that use, sedimentation, pollution, and of the mega-diverse countries of impacts from global climate change. Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua However, Palau’s communities and New Guinea. The islands are also technical agencies are leading the blessed with diverse marine ecosystems, region and the world in conserving including mangroves, seagrass beds, their resources and showcasing their and marine lakes, and have one of the innovative and effective methods to largest diversity of shallow water fish others.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 7 People Empowered with science and knowledge for effective marine conservation and management

8 © Ian Shive Summer Volunteers Preparing our public Information is power, and PICRC helps empower research on marine protected areas are able to communities and future workers by providing understand their community’s perceptions of them with information and then training them resources. With this understanding, they have on how to use it. Our research programs always contributed scientific and community-appropriate include a capacity building component and feed ideas to management plans, leading to improved directly into our education programs. In 2012 the management on the ground. Center trained over 100 adults in a wide array of skills, preparing practitioners and communities The Center has a strong youth program, reaching in everything from using a regional database to a majority of Palau’s school-aged children through coral taxonomy to conducting surveys. No matter school-based programs and by visits to the the topic, however, the Center always ensures Aquarium. In 2012 the Center impacted over 2700 that its training programs meet current needs of youth (which is more than 13% of Palau’s entire managers working in Palau’s protected areas. population, and nearly 100% of the country’s youth), giving them a solid understanding of State and national technical partners and Palau’s marine environment and related human individual community members participate in systems, and inspiring greater stewardship. research, thus gaining expertise on methods and gaining the best insight available on the relevance PICRC is proud of the role we play in bringing of our findings. For instance, community about the certainty that comes from having a members who participated in socioeconomic self-sufficient workforce.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 9 People empowered with Science and Knowledge for effective marine conservation and management

© Ian Shive

10 for effective © Ian Shive marine conservation Increasing information and management Increasing the amount of relevant information environments, and surveys to determine the available to Palau and the world is the hallmark status of groupers, parrotfish, wrasses, and of the Center’s operations. Above all, the Center other economically important fish. remains a research institution geared toward collecting data and interpreting information To build its international profile and make it that meets the needs of Palau’s communities more competitive, the Center also engages in and practitioners. limited regional research across the Pacific, and with world-renowned scientists from across Keeping in line with a national focus to improve the globe. For instance, in 2012 the Center was the status of resources in marine protected selected to lead a national project to determine areas (MPAs), in 2012 the Center continued a the impact of radioactive releases from Japan’s number of research efforts to better understand Fukushima nuclear plant in Palau and in MPAs. These included the development relation to other changes across Asia and the and testing of a protocol for standardized Pacific. The Center also continues to attract monitoring of MPAs, socioeconomic surveys, the cooperation of Japanese and American diver-impact studies, and research towards researchers working to understand the impacts predicting fish populations from larval supplies. of climate change. In 2012 the Center started collaborative research with scientists at Woods The Center also conducts ongoing and new Hole Oceanographic Institution and the research on broad topics of interest to the University of Ryukyus on climate change. entire nation (not just MPAs). These include work to understand coral reef survival in the Policymakers are more certain about their face of ocean acidification, studies quantifying decisions when they have been provided with the impacts of river discharge on marine sound scientific data from the Center. Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 11 People empowered with science and knowledge for Effective Marine Conservation and Management

12 Data for a greater good

Ensuring that information is used to improve PICRC findings directly impacted national laws Palau’s environment and the quality of life of our protecting vulnerable resources. Before 2012, people is embedded in our mission. We work national law banned grouper harvest through with partners, policymakers, and the public to July. However, data show that groupers aggregate translate our research findings into meaningful beyond that month. Working with partners, methods and on-the-ground changes. PICRC successfully advocated that Congress extend the annual closed season through In April 2012 the PICRC-led MPA Monitoring October. An amendment to the existing closure Protocol was adopted by the Palau PAN. The law was signed by the President in late 2012. protocol creates a standardized rubric against Also in 2012, elected leaders received survey data which MPAs in Palau can be measured. showing ongoing declines of sea cucumbers. This is enormously important to donors and Leaders abandoned plans to lift a ban on sea policymakers, who must make hard decisions cucumber export after seeing this information. about which areas to prioritize and fund, Effective Marine and gives communities a way to understand The Center provides data that helps partners and how their management efforts impact the leaders be certain about where to situate marine performance of the MPA over time and protected areas and how to best manage them. Conservation compared to other similar locations. and Management

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 13 © Ian Shive Monitoring Sites. From left: Ngarchelong, Ngardmau, Ngchesar, Peleliu Research Activities

MPA Monitoring Protocol Marshall Islands and the Federated States PICRC led the development of a protocol that of Micronesia to test and implement the could be used to monitor marine protected areas monitoring protocol. Through these efforts (MPAs) across Palau. Geared toward use by PICRC adjusted the protocol to be relevant to the state governments and technical partners, the Micronesia Challenge, calibrated measurement protocol standardizes monitoring by providing indices, and assessed MPAs in other islands. guidance on objectives, sampling design, indicators, methodology, and equipment. The Long-term Coral Reef Monitoring protocol was developed through a multi-year PICRC continued its annual surveys of 22 process of discussions and meetings with local, permanent sites across Palau. Analysis of regional, and global partners and experts and this data is ongoing. Interesting findings in through field testing. In April 2012 the protocol 2012 included information that the condition was adopted formally by the Ministry of Natural of Palau’s south-western outer reefs were in Resources, Environment, and Tourism as the strikingly excellent condition; outer reefs had official protocol of the PAN. All sites receiving significant positive relationships between coral PAN funding must implement the protocol. cover and densities of invertebrates and fish; The use of this protocol allows PAN sites to be and that outer reefs showed a surprising lack compared to each other and to similar reference of relationship between reef rugosity and fish sites. Coral reef data collected following the densities. In 2010 PICRC adjusted the long-term protocol includes fish and invertebrate density monitoring program to include 80 randomly and biomass, coral recruitment, characterization chosen sites to assess coral bleaching. In 2011 and of benthos (species and percent cover), sediment 2012 those data were analyzed. The results of the weight, and water quality (visibility and bleaching survey showed that coral bleaching temperature). It also suggests socioeconomic was significantly lower in the sheltered bays than indicators. In 2011 and 2012 PICRC personnel on outer and patch reefs, indicating that bay traveled to sites across the Republic of the reefs are more resilient to bleaching.

14 © Ian Shive

MPA Effectiveness Measures five years, the majority of Ngarchelong residents PICRC continued its study of key sites to assess (77-86%) still felt that the Ebiil Channel whether MPAs are meeting their designed MPA improved the availability of seafood and objectives. In 2012 PICRC monitored its four provided economic benefits to the community. seagrass MPAs and unprotected reference sites There was a shift in perception on the MPA in Ngchesar, Airai, Koror, and Peleliu, recording closure, with more people in 2010 indicating a fish density and biomass, invertebrate density, desire for Ebiil to be closed for five years, rather and seagrass composition and percent cover. than permanently. The same threats such as PICRC also monitored two protected grouper poaching and weak enforcement were indicated spawning aggregations and their unprotected in both 2005 and 2010. PICRC also continued reference sites in Ngarchelong and Koror. A monitoring dive sites at Ngemelis to track the paper was published in 2011 on the grouper impact of divers. A related study tracks whether aggregation monitoring. Researchers found that the diving experience at Ngemelis is meeting at the two protected MPAs, groupers accounted diver expectations. for 78% of the total abundance of fish present and 85% of total biomass. At the unprotected Climate Change Assessments reference sites, groupers comprised less than 1% PICRC has a number of collaborative projects of the total abundance and biomass. However, underway to study the impacts of climate comparisons with 1995-96 data show dramatic change. A paper published in 2012 reported on declines in populations at both locations. a study of more than 30,000 coral colonies at 80 sites during a regional warming event in 2010. Socioeconomic Surveys Bleaching was most severe in the northwestern Socioeconomic surveys are part of PICRC’s larger lagoon and certain corals (Pocillopora) program to assess MPA effectiveness. In late 2011 suffered the most extensive bleaching and the PICRC released findings comparing results from highest mortality. However, in the bays where 2005 and 2010 surveys in Ngarchelong. In the temperatures were higher than elsewhere,

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 15 Minister Fritz adopts the MPA Monitoring Protocol for use in PAN

bleaching and mortality were low. Researchers believe that the coral composition and natural conditions (high temperatures and low light) buffered the corals in bays from the 2010 warming. In 2012 PICRC continued working with a team headed by a Chief Researcher from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to further refine their understanding of strong corals which can withstand impacts of climate change. Also in 2012, PICRC and the University of Ryukyus were awarded a competitive grant from the Government of Japan to study and quantify the impacts of climate change on reefs and mangroves.

Role of Taro PICRC started a new project to better understand the role of different types of taro patches (which vary by species, location, moisture, and design) in filtering water and capturing sediment. In 2012 researchers completed sediment trapping and field work. Analysis is under way.

Fish status In early 2012 PICRC analyzed existing data on fish and reported to traditional leaders that fish populations across Palau continue to decline. However, areas with effective management in place show signs of minimizing the decline. In 2012 PICRC completed a pilot study to assess populations of Bumphead Parrotfish and Napoleon Wrasse. A national ban on their 16 © Ian Shive Sites in Ngaraard, Ngiwal, and Meleokeok where PICRC conducted Dr. Anne Cohen, Researcher for Woods Hole Oceanographic rapid coral reef damage assessments after Super Typhoon Bopha. Institute, with PICRC staff and elected leaders. Sites in Airai were also surveyed. harvest was implemented in 2006. In the pilot protecting the specifically targeted eremrum study, researchers surveyed 27 sites for the fish. sea cucumber. Although there was a decrease The pilot study will guide the development of a in eremrum populations between 2009 and nationwide study to monitor these fish. PICRC 2012 inside the MPA, the decrease was not also started a collaborative project to track and statistically significant and was much less predict the dispersal of fish larvae from MPAs than the decrease that took place outside of to surrounding areas. This research uses the the MPA. After Typhoon Bopha hit Palau in hydrodynamic model that PICRC completed December 2012, PICRC conducted a quick survey in 2010. In late 2011 researchers presented to determine the extent of damage. Many of findings from studies on herbivorous reef fish PICRC’s permanent monitoring sites had also and reef fish distribution, including maps. been surveyed immediately before the typhoon. Additional results indicate that different species Continued monitoring of these sites will provide of herbivorous reef fish may have a role in longer term information on the rate of recovery increasing the resilience of coral reefs. post-storm.

Mangrove Resilience Capacity Enhancement Project for Coral Field work for an ongoing study to determine the Reef Monitoring (CEPCRM) resilience of mangroves that have been impacted CEPCRM, a joint initiative between PICRC by development was completed in 2012. Three and the Japan International Cooperation years of data are now being analyzed. Agency (JICA), ended in July 2012. Goals of CEPCRM were to support MPA monitoring and Responsive research management, establish monitoring protocols, PICRC conducts new research activities as and enhance partnerships between PICRC, needed. Following a six-month harvesting event Micronesia Challenge jurisdictions, and relevant in 2011 and at the request of the Ngardmau Palauan agencies. An external evaluation Governor, in March 2012 PICRC assessed sea concluded that the project was highly effective at cucumber populations in Ngardmau waters. achieving its goals. The total number of sea cucumbers outside the Ngermasech MPA decreased 88% between 2009 and 2012. There was a less drastic 22% decline inside the Ngermasech MPA. It appears that the Ngermasch MPA was effective in Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 17

© Ian Shive Publications and Presentations

Publishing and presenting the results of research Mumby PJ, Bejarano S, Golbuu Y, Steneck RS, Arnold conducted by the Center is important for PICRC SN, van Woesik R, Friedlander AM. In Press. Empirical relationships among resilience indicators on for many reasons. In particular, PICRC publishes Micronesian reefs. Coral Reefs (In Press), DOI 10.1007/ its work in local and global publications in s00338-012-0966-0 order to share its findings with broad audiences, Golbuu Y, Wolanski E, Idechong JW, Victor S, Isechal AL, Oldiais NW, Idip D. Jr., Richmond RH, van Woesik, R. spark discussions about implications and 2012. Predicting Coral Recruitment in Palau’s Complex management, and inspire ideas from around Reef Archipelago. PLoS ONE 7(11): e50998. doi:10.1371/ the world. Additionally, PICRC strives to journal.pone.0050998 ensure that its research is conducted in a van Woesik R, Houk P, Isechal AL, Idechong JW, Victor S, Golbuu Y. 2012. Climate-change refugia in the sheltered scientifically rigorous manner so that its findings bays of Palau: analog of future reefs. Ecology and have meaning in the real world. Publishing Evolution 2: 2474-2484. doi: 10.1002/ece3.363 in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at Golbuu Y, Friedlander AM. 2011. Spatial and temporal international conferences keeps PICRC to characteristics of grouper spawning aggregations in marine protected areas in Palau, western Micronesia. globally accepted standards for research and Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science 76: 14-20 provides valuable feedback and criticism. The Golbuu Y, van Woesik R, Richmond RH, Harrison P, articles listed here were prepared and accepted Fabricius KE. 2011. River discharge reduces reef coral for publication in 2011 and 2012. A full list of diversity in Palau. Marine Pollution Bulletin 62: 824-831 publications by PICRC staff may be found on the Golbuu Y, Wolanski E, Harrison P, Richmond RH, Victor S, Fabricius KE. 2011. Effects of land-use change on Center’s website. characteristics and dynamics of watershed discharges in Babeldaob, Palau, Micronesia. Journal of Marine Publications in Peer-Reviewed Journals Biology volume 2011, Ariticle ID 981273, 17 pages, doi: 10.1155/2011/981273 Golbuu Y, Friedlander AM. In Press. Using appropriate methods to answer a question, and the importance of Technical Reports and Publications understanding the question: A response to the rebuttal by Colin et al. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science (In Golbuu Y, Andrew J, Koshiba S, Mereb G, Merep A, Olsudong Press), doi:10.1016/j.ecss.2011.11.038 D, Bilil B, Vitor S. 2012. Status of Sea Cucumber Populations at Ngardmau State, Republic of Palau. PICRC Technical McLeod E, Anthony KRN, Andersson A, Beeden R, Report 12-01. Palau International Coral Reef Center. Koror, Golbuu Y, Kleypas J, Kroeker K, Manzello D, Salm Palau. RV, Schuttenberg H, Smith JE. In Press. Preparing to manage coral reefs for ocean acidification: lessons from Golbuu Y, Isechal AL, Idechong JW, van Woesik R. 2011. coral bleaching. (In Press), Frontiers in Ecology and Spatial variability of coral bleaching in Palau during a Environment DOI: 10.1890/110240 regional thermal stress event in 2010. A Report to The 18

Nature Conservancy. Palau International Coral Reef Current Collaborators Center, Koror, Palau. 15pp. PICRC collaborates with researchers from across the globe to Friedman K, Golbuu Y. 2011. Palau. In: Sanders, J.S.; study a range of biological and socioeconomic topics. Gréboval, D.; Hjort, A. (comp.) Marine protected areas: country case studies on policy, governance and United States institutional issues. FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Dr. Anne Cohen Woods Hole Oceanographic Technical Paper. No. 556/1. Rome, FAO. 2011. 118 pp. Institute Richmond RH, Golbuu Y, Idechong N, Wolanski E. 2011. Dr. Robert B. Dunbar Stanford University Integration of social and cultural aspects in designing Dr. Alan Friedlander University of Hawaii ecohydrology and restoration solutions. In: Wolanski Dr. Les Kaufman Boston University E and McLusky DS (eds.) Treatise on Estuarine and Dr. Todd C. LaJeunesse Pennsylvania State University Coastal Science, Vol 10, pp. 71-80. Waltham: Academic Dr. Richard MacKenzie US Forest Service Press. Dr. Don McCorkle Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute International Meetings* Dr. Gustav Paulay University of Florida Idechong J†, Golbuu Y, Isechal A, Victor S, van Woesik R. Dr. Robert Richmond University of Hawaii Spatial variability of coral bleaching in Palau during a Dr. Rod Salm The Nature Conservancy regional thermal stress event in 2010. Presented at the Dr. Robert Steneck University of Maine 12th International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS), Cairns, Dr. Alison Sweeney University of Pennsylvania Australia, 9-13 July 2012. Dr. Robert van Woesik Florida Institute of Technology Isechal A†, Idechong J, Oldiais N, Merep A, Andrew J, Dr. Supin Wongbusarrakum The Nature Conservancy Olsudong D, Merep G, Nakaya S, Golbuu Y. Effectiveness of small MPAs in Palau in meeting fisheries objectives. Oceania Presented at the 12th ICRS, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July Dr. Rajesh Chandra University of the South Pacific 2012. Dr. Elisabeth Holland University of the South Pacific

† Dr. Peter Houk Pacific Marine Resource Institute Barkley H , Cohen A, Golbuu Y, McLeod E, Salm R. Corals in highly variable environments are more resilient to Dr. Laurie Raymundo University of Guam ocean warming. Presented at the 12th ICRS, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July 2012. Australia Dr. Sonia Bejerano University of Queensland Bejarano S†, Mumby PJ, Golbuu Y, Sapolu T. Spear-fishing Dr. Christopher Doropoulos University of Queensland pressure on a source of reef resilience in Micronesia. Presented at the 12th ICRS, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July Dr. Katharina Fabricius Australian Institute of Marine 2012. Science Dr. Alison Green The Nature Conservancy † Maynard J , McLeod E, Houk P, Golbuu Y, McKagan Dr. Peter Harrison Southern Cross University S, Cros A, Heron S, Lough J, Salm R. Climate change Dr. Elizabeth Mcleod The Nature Conservancy vulnerability maps for coral reefs in Micronesia. Dr. Peter Mumby University of Queensland Presented at the 12th ICRS, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July Dr. George Roff University of Queensland 2012. Dr. Rebecca Weeks James Cook University † McLeod E , Andersson A, Anthony K, Beeden R, Kleypas J, Dr. Eric Wolanski James Cook University Kroeker K, Manzello D, Salm R, Schuttenberg H, Smith JE, Cohen A, Golbuu Y, Green A, Leberer T, Victor S, Asia Wolanski, E. Preparing to manage coral reefs for ocean Dr. Keita Furukawa National Institute for Land and acidification: lessons from coral bleaching. Presented at Infrastructure Management the 12th ICRS, Cairns, Australia, 9-13 July 2012. Dr. Hajime Kayanne University of Tokyo Oldiais NW†, Wongbusarakum S, Isechal AL, Olsudong Dr. Haruko Kurihara University of the Ryukyus DU. Local perspectives on Ebiil Marine Protected Dr. Kaoruko Miyakuni University of the Ryukyus Area through socio-economic study. Presented at the Dr. Kazuo Nadaoka Tokyo Institute of Technology th 25 International Congress for Conservation Biology, Dr. Takashi Nakamura University of the Ryukyus Auckland, New Zealand, 5-9 December 2011. Dr. Hideo Ohba Tokyo University of Marine * PICRC researchers, staff, and Board Members present research findings and Science and Technology educational methods in numerous formal and informal local, regional, and Dr. Mokoto Omori Akajima Marine Science international settings throughout the year. PICRC researchers also contribute to presentations given by partners. Those listed here were accepted for presentation at Laboratory particularly relevant international academic conferences. Dr. James Reiber University of the Ryukyus † Presenter Dr. Makato Tsuchiya University of the Ryukyus Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 19 Chiefs from Koror following a presentation on PICRC’s research projects in Koror Capacity Building, Education, and Outreach

PICRC works hard to ensure that the information Measures Meeting, during which participants it discovers about Palau’s environment is used from the Micronesia Challenge jurisdictions to inform policy and management. In addition (RMI, FSM, Guam, CNMI, and Palau) agreed to the formal programs described here, PICRC to final marine indicators (culled from the staff and Board members communicate regularly MPA Monitoring Protocol) for use across the with practitioners and policymakers to convey region. In 2012 PICRC also hosted international findings, implications, and recommendations. This meetings on coral reefs and climate change. is integrated into day-to-day operations. In 2012 PICRC hired an Extension Agent, a new position Training Events designed to improve the delivery of information to PICRC held specific training events to raise stakeholders and to improve connections among the capacity of rangers and communities. In departments within the Center. Improvements 2012 at least 100 people were trained in GPS, to outreach have included weekly press releases, monitoring, and socioeconomic surveys. regular updates to the PICRC website, use of social media, and improved aquarium displays. International Meetings PICRC staff and Board Members build Data Management System expertise in science communication, research In 2012 PICRC and partners completed the skills, networking, and educational methods Micronesia Challenge Data Management by making presentations at regional and System, a central repository where data can be international meetings. In late 2011 researcher safely stored and accessed. PICRC houses the Noelle Oldiais presented findings from the system. PICRC researchers traveled throughout 2010 socioeconomic study of Ebiil Channel Micronesia to train technical partners on how to MPA at the 25th International Congress of use the data system. Conservation Biology. This was Noelle’s first experience speaking before a large, international Meetings and Workshops audience. In 2012 researchers Lukes Isechall PICRC hosted several meetings of international and Jacques Idechong presented papers at the and regional partners, all of which were attended 12th International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS). by Palauan technical partners and/or community With over 2000 participants, ICRS attracts many members. In 2012 PICRC hosted the 4th Marine of the world’s leading scientists and managers.

20 Earth Day 2012 Display

Lukes presented results from the PICRC/JICA outreach efforts. In 2011 and 2012 PICRC also CEPCRM study emphasizing the success of continued its popular presentation series, smaller MPAs in meeting fisheries objectives, inviting the public to learn about cutting-edge and Jacques presented results of bleaching research from local and visiting experts. studies showing Palau to have some of the world’s most resilient reefs. Media In 2011 and 2012 PICRC strengthened its Professional Development communication of research findings and PICRC offers regular professional development environmental information by utilizing local exercises. In 2012 PICRC held workshops on coral television, quarterly newsletters, and weekly taxonomy, Geographic Information Systems press releases in newspapers. The PICRC website (GIS), and data analysis. While designed for highlights latest research and aquarium news. staff, the workshops were attended by partners and community members as well. In late 2011, Youth Education PICRC hired Shirley Koshiba, a recent graduate PICRC continued and expanded programs about in political science. Demonstrating PICRC’s marine science and careers in science. Students ability build science capacity in Palau, Shirley is prepared drawings for the popular Arts & Tides now conducting field research. Calendar, visited the Aquarium, participated in on-the-job training opportunities, and learned Stakeholder Outreach and Presentations about math and science through a hands-on PICRC gave many presentations to traditional practicum at the Center. PICRC gave in-school and elected leaders at state and national levels presentations to classrooms across Palau and on a range of topics, including MPA status, offered one-time activities such as the Summer sea cucumbers, climate change, fish trends, Arts and Crafts Week and an Earth Day display. and other PICRC projects. In 2012 PICRC gave notable presentations to Koror and Ngardmau 11th Anniversary Celebration leaders, Palau’s Council of Chiefs, the Belau The Center celebrated its 11th anniversary in Watershed Alliance, and the opening session of February 2012. An art show, aquarium tours, the OEK (Senate). PICRC positively impacted green expo, concert, walkathon, and gala dinner resource laws and policies through these engaged the public in PICRC’s programs.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 21 From Questions

to Answers

and Action

How PICRC’s work on global climate change gives Palau a more certain future

22 Representatives from PICRC and State Governor’s Offices after an introduction to a new project to identify adaptation best practices

From Questions to Answers thermal models to understand local and PICRC’s work on global climate change regional ocean acidification patterns and perfectly illustrates its commitment to incorporate this information into MPA its mission. The majority of its research planning. projects involve collaborations from international partners, many from top From Action to Certainty institutions in Australia, Japan, Oceania, PICRC supports conservation and and the United States. The Center conducts management in the face of climate change research and education on climate change by ensuring that its information leads to that benefits Palau directly (such as by action, such as by helping dive operators identifying reefs less likely to bleach) stay away from reefs damaged by storms and and which is relevant to the world. A bleaching or identifying community options forthcoming paper published in the journal for adaptation. In 2012 PICRC started a new Frontiers in Ecology and the Environment collaborative project with the University of with coauthors from PICRC, the Nature the South Pacific to identify and test best Conservancy, Australian Institute of practices for climate change adaptation. The Marine Science, Scripps Institution of Center will disseminate its findings widely Oceanography, Stanford University, and and work with partners and contracted other institutions, argues that even though experts to ensure that those best practices ocean acidification is viewed as a global are incorporated into community planning problem impossible to manage, it is possible documents, thereby reducing Palau’s for local conservationists to use predictive vulnerability to climate change.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 23 Thanks to our Donors FY2012 National Appropriations The Olbiil Era Kelulau Palauan Taxpayers

2011-2012 Grant Contributors Micronesia Conservation Trust US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration through The University of Hawaii The David and Lucile Packard Foundation The European Union through The University of the South Pacific (Global Climate Change Alliance) The Nature Conservancy

Individuals and Groups who donated money or in-kind good and services in 2011-2012

Ai Matsumura Brilliant Franz Destin Penland Francis Ngotel Aileen Takada Burt N. Ldesel Dina Sandei Frank Ngotel Airai State Government Byron Wong Dominina Callaghan Fuanes Kamesang Aladdin Llecholch Calvin Emesiochel Donato Jonas Fusao Nishida Albert R. Philip Carol Emaurois Doris S. Wachi Gale N. Ngirmidol Alex Wegmann Caryn Lkong Koshiba Dr. Patrick Tellei Gemma C. Patubo Alfonsa Koshiba Charity Gulibert Dr. Yimnang Golbuu Georgia L. Malsol Alfred Fritz Charlie Maximiliano Duty Free Shoppers, Palau Ltd Geory Mereb Alfred Tuelbang Charlon H. Arbedul Ebiil Society Inc. Gerald Ringang Alice Pangelinan Chief Rdechor Isimang Bandarii Ed Temengiil Gila Rekemesik Alison Sweeney Chilton Tutii Edline Mabel Gordon Tkel Alonz Moses Christopher Kitalong Edmund Ongerung Grace Yalap Alvina Marcil Chubby Mai Edolem Ikerdeu Greely Gabino Alvina O. Marcil Cinderella Adachi Edwin Tomoichi Greps Demei Amanda Holp Cindy Fritz Ehpraim Lewis Greta J. Etiterngel Ambassador Marcello Clare Saburo Elaine E. Andreas Hannah Barkley Pierantozzi Clarinda S. Alexander Elaine Fielding Happy Oilouch Anabelle A. Tengeluk Clement Maech Eleanor Anderson Harry Sambal Andrew Tabelual Cleofas Iyar Elia Ebas Hatohobei Organization for Ann Kitalong Clinton Ngemaes Elin Rebluud People & Environment Anne Cohen Corleone M. Lucas Elizabeth S. Kyota Hatohobei State Government Annette M. Siksei Daniel Moorse Ella Asuncion Helen Reef Project Annette Ucherkemur Danny Martini Ellen B. Chokai Helena Rebelkuul Annick Cros Dave Benavente Ellena Temol Hideo Oya Anthony Adelbai Dave Brudick Elsei Tellei Hila Asanuma Anthony Matitini David Dengokl Elspeth Ngiraibai Hilario Ngiraidong Antonio Raquinio David Masaichi Embassy of the Hilda Kenzio Arius Merep David Tarimel Republic of China Hirokazu Abe Arthur Remeliik Davis Saburo Erbai Yukiwo Hiroyuki Tanaka Asley Rdang Dawnette Olsudong Erina Telmetang Hisayo Takenaka Augustine Mesebeluu Dean A. Terry Ernestine K. Rengiil Hokaido University - Japan Babeldaob Rengiil Delegate Alexander S. Merep Esther Rengulbai Hulda Lukas Bank of Hawaii Delegate Gibson Kanai Eugenio Kaluu Ibedul Yutaka M. Gibbons Barbra Solang Delegate Jerry Nabeyama Euginia King-ich Ibuuch M. Ngiriou Beatrix B. Taima Delegate Jonathan Isechal Eunice Akiwo Idub Etpison Belau Triathlon Federation Delegate Kalistus Ngirturong Eunice Ngotel Ignaciaa Oilouch Benson Adelbai Delegate Noah Idechong Evelyn Adelbai Immaculada N. Rechuld Best Coffee & Donut House Delegate Rebluud Kesolei Evita Andres Impac Tours Billy B. Rekemel Delegate Secilil Eldebechel Exley Meyar Ines Kintoki Bilung & Ngarachamayong Delegate Swenny Ongidobel Fermina Donatus IP&E Palau Inc. Blaire Phillips Delegate Wayne Andrew Fish N’ Fins Israel Brel Blanche I. Salii Deloitte & Touche Florencia Ngiraiwet Itelbong, Florencio Blue Bay Petroleum Incorporated Dennis Ito Florencio Itelbong Jacob Timarong Bradford Blaluk Desiiu Ngirkelau Floria Kambalang Jacques W. Idechong

24 Janice Merep Linda I. Ngirameketii Pacific Island Health Officers Shannon Madris Janice Tarkong Cooper Linda Meyar Association Sherene K. Adolf Janice Yukiwo Linda Orozsco PALARIS Sherry Olikong Japan Club of Palau Linda Rechelbang Palasia Hotel Sherwin Yamanguchi Japan International Cooperation Local Managed Marine Area Palau Community College Shimbros International Agency (JICA Office) Lolita Gibbons- Decherong Palau Conservation Society Corporation Japan Wildlife Research Center Lolyna E. Ngiratrang Palau National Communication Shirley Koshiba Jaselyn T. Pedro Lorenso Edward Corporation (PNCC) Shra Ngirchechol Jay Andres Loretta E. Shmull Palau National Olympics Siles Ngiramremiang Jay Andrew Lourigene K. Samsel Committee Silverius Tellei Jay G. Olegeriil Lucky Gem Construction Palau Pacific Resort Sinton Soalablai Jay Oruetamor Luis Kaluu Palau Public Utility Corporation Sirino Hideo Jeff R. Ngirarsaol Maeti K. Edeluchel Palau Royal Resort Sngebard Delong Jellyfish Palau, Inc. Magaria Tellei Palau Supreme Court Soaladaob, Isaac Jeremiah Tem Magario Wachi Palau Visitor Authority Socio Micronesia, Inc. Jerry N. Saka Makoto Tsuchiya Pamela Anastacio Soon Seob Ha Joachim Reklai Manasseh Temol Pamela Wasisang South Pacific Regional Joanne M. Sengebau Mareva Lechat Papago International Environment Programme Jocelyn S. Beltau Mariei Renguul Resort Palau Soya K. Rudimch Joel Melus Marilou Lapuz Patrick Tabelual SPACO Finance John Eriich Mark Defley Peleliu State Governement Stacy Akitaya John Iquel Mark O’Brian Peter Houk Steven Aderkeroi John Ngewakl Pedro Marlyne Ngiraibai Peter Mumby Steven Johnson John Wong Marvin Wasisang Peter Ulechong Steven Kanai Johnston M. Eyoel Mary Basiou Petrus E. Sadang Steven Victor Jordan Ngirchongeuikl Mary E. Ngirasiau Philipus Tkel Sun’s Flower Shop Joseph N. Aitaro Mary Yangilmau PMRI Surangel & Sons Company Josepha J. Rdialul Marygold Yobech Ponsiana Sambal Susan Malsol Joy S. Sam Marygrace Yamanguchi Precillo Orukei Susau Shmull Joyce Ngirachitei Mathew Cruz President Swenny Ongidobel Joycelyne Tatsuo Matsuda Rechurer Thomas Remengesau, Jr. Taiji Usui JR-Young G. Sikyang May First Company Prima Oiph Takao Anzawa Judge Kathleen Salii Mayleen T. Ngiriou Print Zone Tchuzie Tadao Judy Ann Sabino Micronesian Divers Assn. Inc. Rachel Dimitruk The Belvedere Apartments Juliana Ngedebuu Mildred Ngirturong Ramsar Secretariat The Taj Palau Juliana Ongalibang Minae F. Brel Randa Jonathan Theodosia Joseph Jun Furukawa Ministry of Health Raymond Ongino Theophilus Ngiraklei Kabidor Taima Miriam Ewatel Reagan Sidoi Thomas Soaladaop Kalinda Beketaut Miriam N. Watts Rebecca Ngiruos Thomas Taro Kalista Kinto Miriam R. West Rebechong T. Kyomasa Tiare Holm Karen Salii Molina T. Skilang Rita Kuchad Tiffany Harrison Katarina Mad Moline Smaserui Road Scholar Tommy Ngiraulau Kauderael Keane Morton Sawaichi Robert Parsons Trina Leberer Kayangel State Government Mr.&Mrs. Isaac Soaladaob Rock Island Kayak Expedition Uchelbelau Lorenso Edward Kayleen Mario MVP Space Rentals Rock Island Tour Company United Airlines Kengku Yamashiro Nabors T. Ngirumerang Rod Salm University of Hawaii Kennedy Kotaro Nancy R. Camacho Roman Oseked Vannessa Fread Kenorah Vickery National Development Roman Pedro Veloria V. Riungel Kenry Smau Bank of Palau Romana Blailes Verano Ngirkelau Kerai M. Oiterong NECO Marine Ron Leidich Vice President Kerai Mariur Kerdeu Uong NECO Plaza Corporation Roseline Adelbai Victor Nestor Kevin N. Ngitong Nelsie Fidel Rudy s. Rubario Villiany Thomas King M. Sam Ngara Yaml Russell O. Williams Vivian Eledui Koror State Government Ngchesar State Sandra S. Pierantozzi WCTC Kukumai Umayam Ngerumelong Estates Sara Bloom Whales Alive Lahanina L. Ngirkelau Ngiradonges Ngirametuker Sarah’s Yum Yum Bar & Wilbur B. Telei Larry Wakakoro Ngiraitaoch Ngiraked Grill Restaurant Wilhelm Ngiraikelau Leah Asanuma Ngirturong, Kalistus Sasakawa Peace Foundation Willa Wong Leilani Etpison Nicole Cormier Scotty Malakai William Aila Lelly E. Obakerbau Nixon A. Augustine Secundina Kentaro Yakir Gagnon Leona Tkel Noe Yalap Selim Mia Yasunori Kano, PhD Leonard Basilius Norma A. Etibek Senator Kathy Kesolei Yohei Merur Leonard Mikel Odanges Dengokl Senator Regis Akitaya Yoko Oya Leslie Ngirablosch Olga Singeo Senator Surangel Whipps, Jr. Yuir Matatini Lily E. Oilouch Pablo F. Martin Shane M. Shmull

Thank you to our aquarium visitors and other supporters. Your support helps us succeed.

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 25 Financial Statements

FY2012 Revenues STATEMENT OF REVENUES AND EXPENSES Years ending September 30, 2011 and 2012

Grants FY 2011 FY 2012 (US$) (US$) 36% Grants29% OPERATING REVENUE 1 GrantsFacility User & AdmissionsGrant Revenue 2 375,720 283,025 FacilityGrants User & AdmissionsROP Appropriation 387,000 356,708 Facility user and admissions fees3 91,750 111,827 FacilityDonations User and & FundraisingAdmissionsDonations and 4 58,628 70,716 Merchandise sales 22,585 23,884 DonationsFacilityMembership User and & FundraisingAdmissions and 5 Membership Fundraising 41,571 33,011 DonationsMerchandise and FundraisingBoat feeand 6 13,169 27,097 MerchandiseDonationsMembership11% and FundraisingAccommodation and 7 5,641 8,822 Membership Research facilities 26,507 25,140 Grants3% MerchandiseResearch facil/boat/accom 11% Interest Income 8 105 70 Grants1% 6% ResearchMerchandise facil/boat/accomEducation program fee 2,321 6,455 GrantsFacility User2 &% AdmissionsResearchContract facil/boat/accomOther Income 39,014 30,692 GrantsGrants ResearchResearch facilities, facil/boat/accom boat, Facility User & AdmissionsContractand accomodation Total operating revenues 1,064,012 977,448 Facility user and Education Programs FacilityDonationsadmission fees User and & FundraisingAdmissionsContractEducational, and Other, Interest, OPERATING EXPENSES FacilityMembershipDonations & UserFundraising & AdmissionsEducational,ContractLease/SaleOther of Other, Assets Interest, Donations and Fundraising and Salaries, wages and fringe benefits 453,082 417,178 Merchandise DonationsMerchandiseMembership and FundraisingEducational,AppropriationsLease/SaleAppropriations and of Other, Assets Interest,Depreciation 157,263 166,664 MerchandiseDonationsMembership and FundraisingAppropriationsEducational,Lease/Sale and of Other, Assets Interest,Utilities 125,673 91,964 FY2012Membership Expenses Lease/SaleGrants of Assets Supplies and printing 64,616 58,615 MerchandiseResearch facil/boat/accomAppropriations Professional services 55,363 55,635 ResearchMerchandise facil/boat/accomAppropriationsGrants Communications 21,960 9,078 7% 4% Travel 1 17,006 13,914 ResearchContract2% facil/boat/accomFacility User & Admissions 2% Grants Merchandise cost 2 14,744 14,045 ContractResearch2% facil/boat/accomFacility User & AdmissionsInsurance 14,167 15,714 2% 3 ContractEducational, Other, Interest,Donations and FundraisingFuel and 11,545 20,317 Facility User & Admissions ContractLease/Sale of AssetsMembership Repairs and maintenance 4 6,121 11,412 Educational, Other, Interest,Donations and FundraisingAnniversary and 4,335 7,362 8% 5 Educational,AppropriationsLease/Sale of Other, Assets Interest,MembershipMerchandiseSalaries,54% wages and fringeEducation benefits & Training 2,550 8,509 DonationsSalaries, wages and Fundraisingand fringeDues and benefits andSubscription 6 2,335 898 AppropriationsEducational,Lease/Sale of Other, Assets Interest,MerchandiseUtilities 8% MembershipUtilities Hospitality and Entertainment 1,174 746 GrantsLease/Sale of AssetsResearch facil/boat/accom 7 Appropriations Supplies and printing Postage and Freight 262 142 MerchandiseSupplies and printing 8 GrantsAppropriations Sales and marketing 30 15 12% ResearchProfessional facil/boat/accom services and Training Professional services and Training GrantsFacility User & AdmissionsContract Capital Asset Contribution 9 103,550 0 ResearchCommunications, facil/boat/accom AnniversaryOther 44,413 54,077 Facility User & AdmissionsCommunications, Anniversary 10 Grants ContractTravel Travel FacilityDonations User and & FundraisingAdmissionsEducational, and Other,Total Interest, Operating expenses 1,100,189 946,285 Salaries, wages, and fringe ContractMTravel erchandise cost DonationsMembershipGrants and FundraisingLease/SaleM erchandise and of cost Assets FacilityUtilities User & AdmissionsEducational,InsuranceMerchandise cost and Other, OthersNET Interest, ASSETS AT END OF YEAR (36,177) 31,164 Insurance and Others DonationsMerchandiseMembershipSupplies and Printing and FundraisingLease/SaleAppropriationsInsurance and of Assets Educational,Fuel, Repairs, Other,M aintenance2011 Interest, Statement has been audited. 2012 Statement is unaudited. MembershipMerchandiseFacilityProfessional services,User & AdmissionsFuel,Fuel, repairs, Repairs, maintenance M aintenance DonationsEducation and Training and FundraisingLease/SaleAppropriationsGrantOthers and Indirect of Cost Assets Communications, Anniversary Grant Indirect Cost MembershipMerchandiseResearch facil/boat/accom 26 Appropriations ResearchDonations facil/boat/accomand Fundraising and MembershipMerchandise ResearchContract facil/boat/accom ContractMerchandise Research facil/boat/accom ContractEducational, Other, Interest, Educational,Lease/SaleResearch facil/boat/accom of Other, Assets Interest, Contract Educational,AppropriationsLease/Sale of Other, Assets Interest, Lease/SaleAppropriationsContract of Assets Educational, Other, Interest, Lease/SaleAppropriations of Assets Educational, Other, Interest, Lease/SaleAppropriations of Assets Appropriations BALANCE SHEET Years ending September 30, 2011 and 2012

FY2011 FY2012 (US$) (US$) ASSETS Current Assets Cash & Cash Equivalents 272,300 290,035 Accounts Receivable 45,376 176,526 Inventories 73,470 52,101 Prepaid Expenses 3,699 5,276 Other 10,778 12,417 Total Current Assets 405,623 536,354

Property, Plant and equipment, net 2,178,042 2,050,984

Total Assets 2,583,666 2,587,338

LIABILITIES Current liabilities: Accounts Payable 160,059 132,311 Deferred Revenue 120,371 119,262 Accrued liabilities 61,467 61,408

Total Liabilities 341,898 312,981

NET ASSETS Beginning Net Assets Net Assets 2,277,945 2,243,193 Current YTD Net Income (36,177) 31,164

Total Net Assets 2,214,768 2,274,357

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND ASSETS 2,583,666 2,587,338

2011 Statement has been audited. 2012 Statement is unaudited.

© Charlie Boch

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 27 Guardians of the Mission*

Chairman DR. PATRICK U. TELLEI President, Palau Community College

Vice Chairman DR. MAMORU ENDO Board Member MR. ANDREW TABELUAL Director, Division of Resources and Development, Principal, Koror Elementary School Marine Biology Technology Institute, Tokyo Board Member MS. VERNICE YUJI Secretary/Treasurer MS. LOLITA GIBBONS‐DECHERONG Associate Professor, Science, Palau Community College Program Manager, Conservation and Protected Areas, Palau Conservation Society Ex‐officio Member HONORABLE KERAI MARIUR Vice President, Republic of Palau Board Member MS. BERNIE KELDERMANS Minister, Ministry of Finance Retired Science Coordinator, Ministry of Education Ex‐officio Member MR. DAVID ORRUKEM Board Member DR. CLEMENT LEWSEY Director, Bureau of Marine Resources Director, International Programs Office, NOAA, USA Ex‐officio Member DR. YIMNANG GOLBUU Board Member MR. KATSUSHI SKANG Chief Executive Officer, PICRC Ngarchelong State Traditional and Community Leader

*Key players at PICRC from September 2011 to January 2013 Supervisory relationship Advisory relationship

28 † Staff and Advisors*

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Sandra S. Pierantozzi (to August 2012) CAPACITY Dr. Yimnang Golbuu (from August 2012) ENHANCEMENT PROJECT FOR CORAL REEF MONITORING (CEPCRM)

EXTENSION AGENT Senior Advisor ADMINISTRATION AND RESEARCH ENGINEERING Jamie Payne Dr. Seiji Nakaya (JICA) GIFT SHOP DEPARTMENT DEPARTMENT (from January 2013) Project Coordinator Setsuko Matsumoto Administrative Manager Chief Researcher Department Head Mary Yangilmau Dr. Yimnang Golbuu EDUCATION/PR John Wong (JICA) and AQUARIUM Office Assistant Business Manager Researchers DEPARTMENT Maintenance Technician Mingrang Kloulechad Adelle Lukes Isechal Antonio Raquinio Janice Merep Department Head (from December 2011) (from January 2013) Shirley Koshiba Victor Nestor Carol Emaurois Security Officers Shirley Koshiba Office Assistant/ Jacques Idechong Benson Adelbai (from September 2011) Assistant Store Clerk (to January 2012) Joel Melus Joyra Sam Education Officers Morton Sawaichi Ines Kintoki † Organizational chart approved by Assistant Researchers the PICRC Board of Directors in Store Clerk/Receptionist Geory Mereb Takanori Sato (JOCV) August 2011 Charlene Kazuma Arius Merep Senior Aquarist Dawnette Olsudong Store Clerk/Receptionist Asap Bukkurrou Randa Jonathan Emma Edangel Salii (from October 2012) Aquarist Jay Orue-tamor

Board and Staff November 2012

Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 29 PICRC is home to the Palau Aquarium, one of few aquariums in Micronesia. It provides a unique resource for those people wanting to experience Palau’s marine environment without getting wet and is a centerpiece of the Center’s education efforts.

The aquarium includes only habitats and species found in Palau. Starting with a broad view of Palau’s geological formation, habitat displays include mangroves, seagrass beds, inner and outer reefs, and Endemic Nautilus deep sea habitats. A winding trail through the aquarium ties all of Palau’s habitats to each other. In addition to more common marine creatures (fish, sea turtles, invertebrates), the aquarium is home to some of Palau’s most unique species, including Palau’s famous stingless jellyfish and the endemic nautilus. For many in Palau, the aquarium is the only place where they will see and learn about these unique creatures.

A visit to the Palau Aquarium is part of all local children’s schooling and for many it is their first introduction to Palau’s marine biodiversity. In 2012, 960 students visited

the aquarium. There are free or reduced Students visiting aquarium entrance rates for Palauans and residents.

30 Worldwide coral reefs are rich in life but are in crisis. Human contact, environmental and climate changes and other factors

“ subject the vibrant living reef to deterioration at an unprecedented level. Research and management “ to sustain these wonderful centers of marine life are critical.

Palau needs a center like PICRC Her Excellency Helen P. Reed-Rowe, Ambassador of the United States to Palau at PICRC’s 11th Anniversary Celebration

The Palau International Coral Reef Center began operations on January 18, 2001 through an initiative under the Common Agenda of Japan and the United States, as part of the International Coral Reef Initiative and supported by Palauan National Law. The Center is a semi-government autonomous institution with non-profit status under applicable laws in Palau.

Built on an 8,250 square meter pier surrounded by rock islands, the Center houses a modern research facility, visitor center, and administration complex. The Research Department is housed in a two-story building of approximately 640 square meters. The first floor includes a dry lab, wet lab, specimen room, three in-house researcher offices, a student-training laboratory, weather stations, and shower rooms. The second floor houses the library, meeting room, three apartments for visiting scientists, restrooms, laundry room, and lounge area with basic kitchen. The outside area consists of a covered patio with running seawater tables, holding tanks, and an outside shower. Treated fresh water from the city supply is provided to the building. The local power is rated 110v. Four boats, ranging in size from 17 feet to 33 feet in length, provide center staff and visiting researchers with access to study sites.

The Palau Aquarium is a modern aquarium facility housing outdoor exhibits and indoor galleries showcasing Palau’s unique environmental habitats and species. The Center also provides a venue for meetings and houses a state-of-the-art Conference Room. An Education and Communications Department supports all personnel, departments, and projects. The Administrative Department is responsible for all financial and administrative functions. The Engineering Department maintains facilities and grounds (including boats) and ensures Center security.

Run by Palauan administrators and scientists with strong ties to Palau’s communities, the Center encourages partnerships with international and local researchers and educators.

While the Center receives grants to aid its research, it remains dependent on an annual allocation from the Palau government to operate. To achieve our goal of being financially stable so as to be a Center of Excellence, an Endowment Fund was created. Donations to the Endowment Fund are welcome and appreciated. You can also support the Center by visiting the Palau Aquarium, sponsoring activities, Adopting-A-Tank, or attending annual events. Please help the Center by participating in one of our fundraising programs.

© Ian Shive Palau International Coral Reef Center • 2012 Annual Report 31 Palau International Coral Reef Center P.O. Box 7086 • Koror, Palau 96940 • Tel: (+680) 488-6950 • Fax: (+680) 488-6951 • [email protected] • http://www.picrc.org

© Ian Shive A Center of Excellence Palau International Coral Reef Center