Bringing the deep issues of marine conservation in Tobago to the surface

Issue 5: Mar Tr u s t ch - Octob R e e f er 2005 A Buccoo periodic publication of the CARIBBEAN CORALS IN CRISIS aribbean coral reefs are currently experiencing the worst mass bleaching event in over Ceighteen years... according to some Tobago dive operators “the worst in living memory.” Coral bleaching is a phenomenon that happens when corals expel their microscopic symbiotic algal cells (zooxanthellae) as a result of environmental stress, such as high or low temperatures, sediment, excessive sunlight or exposure to air, freshwater or pollutants. This condition, which makes coral colonies turn brilliant white as their calcium carbonate skeletons become visible through their unpigmented tissue (“bleached”), is not always MONITORING TOBAGO’S REEFS..... 6 fatal but can result in widespread mortality if the corals remain bleached for a prolonged period. The zooxanthellae typically provide around 90% of the energy required by corals for a healthy life, the remaining 10% being obtained from mostly nocturnal filter feeding. As a result, when corals are bleached they are in a weakened state and particularly vulnerable to stressors mentioned above. A DEVELOPING SEAMOSS INDUSTRY..... 8

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 7]

EDUCATION IS THE KEY.... 11

Team Highlights...... 2 New Projects...... 5 YEAH youths...... 13 Moorings Installed at Buccoo Reef...... 14 Reef Men and Women Trained...... 14 AND MORE... T E T he Buccoo Reef Trust team is an ever-growing A M B R group of dynamic, vibrant individuals. TPictured on the adjacent page are directors and staff of this amazing team (chronological order). Continue reading to learn more about us.

GERALD MAC FARLANE, in addition to being a businessman, served in the Tobago House of Assembly as a member of the Executive Council. A founding member of BRT, he continues to serve Tobago as Director of this active NGO and brings to the BRT team the a wealth of local knowledge and experience. he Buccoo Reef Trust (BRT) is a non-profit company registered in Trinidad and Tobago. It was specifically created to assist government and communities in KAYE TROTMAN, BSc. is a founding member and Taddressing the threats facing Tobago’s marine environment and to explore Director of BRT. Ms. Trotman is an independent opportunities for the sustainable development of marine tourism, fishing and business consultant and brings to the team aquaculture in the Southern Caribbean region. tremendous administrative and organizational skills and experience.

Our core strategy is to build and operate the Tobago Marine Research Centre BARRY LOVELACE, MSc., serves as Environmental (TMRC) as an internationally recognized institution of marine research and Science and Information Coordinator. Mr. Lovelace education. This centre will also serve as an information and learning centre for is qualified in Natural Resource Management schools and the community. Support for BRT’s activities has been obtained and (UWI, Cave Hill) and is involved in a range of BRT’s pledged from a number of donors, these include: activities, especially as they relate to the production of multimedia content (desktop publishing and designing, • C. L. Financial film production and website development) for the • The Inter-American Foundation dissemination of information. • The J.B. Fernandez Memorial Trust (I and II) HYACINTH ARMSTRONG, M.A., is BRT’s • The Community Development Fund Environmental Education Coordinator. Ms. Armstrong • The United Nations Environment Program is qualified in the area of Environmental Policy • The Travel Foundation (AU Washington, D.C.) and is responsible for the • PADI Aware development and implementation of BTR’s Education • The Inter-American Development Bank Program (B.E.A.C.H). • BG Trinidad and Tobago • The Tobago House of Assembly KELLY MANNETTE, MSc., is employed at the • The Global Environment Facility Buccoo Reef Trust as an Environmental Education Officer. She assists in monitoring, coordinating and executing the B.E.A.C.H. Program. She We invite you to read of our activities for the period holds an MSc. in Science for Management of covered in this newsletter. Previous issues of “Out of Tropical Environments, from the University of the the Blue” can be found online at West Indies, St. Augustine. www.buccooreeftrust.org/news.htm. FARAHNAZ SOLOMON, MPhil., joined the VISION BRT team as the Seamoss Project Coordinator in January 2005. She is responsible for the IAF A worldworld in which the marine environmentenvironment of funded Seamoss Project which aims to facilitate the tropicaltropical islands is conservedconserved for the benefit of development of a seamoss cultivation industry in futurefuture generationsgenerations while maximizing presentpresent Tobago. She holds a Masters degree in Zoology from the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine and opportunitiesopportunities for sustainable livelihoodslivelihoods thatthat has a special interest in the areas of Fish Biology and enhanceenhance the qualityquality of human life.life. Fisheries Management.

ZAKIYA DANIEL, MSc., became part of the BRT in BRT: Recipients of the MISSION World Association of October 2005. Her background includes a BSc. in Non-Governmental Computer Science and Management from the University TheThe BuccooBuccoo ReefReef TrustTrust worksworks in the CaribbeanCaribbean Organizations Environment Award of the West Indies, St. Augustine and she has recently to develop capacity in the areas of tropicalopical 2004 completed her Masters in Environmental Monitoring, marine sciences through research, educationucation Modelling and Management at King’s College, London. Ms. Daniel has been employed as part of the and participatoryparticipatory conservationconservation thatthat will Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Unit enable CaribbeanCaribbean people toto sustainablysustainably that is currently being developed at the manage their coastalcoastal and marine resources.resources. BRT.

Out of the Blue 2 T E A M B R T

RICHARD LANGTON, PhD, a founding member, is also one of the BRT’s Directors. He brings to the team a wealth of international experience, a list too long to iterate here. Dr. Langton had served 10 years as Director of the Department of Fisheries, Maine, USA and is currently an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maine, USA.

OWEN DAY, PhD, got his bachelors degree in MAC FARLANE Biochemistry from Oxford University (1988), then a erald Masters (1991) and PhD (1997) in Marine Biology from LANGTON the University of Wales, Bangor. He is a “pragmatic ichard environmentalist”, with a strong belief in the role of G international cooperation and public-private partnerships in assisting developing countries in managing their biological resources. As a founding member and TROTMAN R Director of the BRT, based in Tobago since 2001, his aye main focus has been in international fund-raising and DAY in developing the research and conservation programs K wen of the BRT. ROLAND ‘SAGA’ GUILLAND, a former Public Health O Inspector, a dedicated fisherman and a true community man. Mr. Guilland brings to the team a wealth of local knowledge and is always willing to assist in any area LOVELACE of work. He is currently an assistant to the Seamoss arry GUILLARD Project and the boat operator. oland ʻSaga’ GWENDOLYN COLLETTE functions as the Trust’s B housekeeper with responsibility for the provision of R janitorial services for the BRT’s office and house. Gwendolyn has been very effective in providing the ARMSTRONG warm Tobago hospitality to all our guests who stay at the BRT house. yacinth COLLETTE wendolyn JOSEPH ‘SHELL’ BENJAMIN is a Project Assistant attached to the IAF funded Seamoss Project. Mr. H Benjamin’s working experience enables him to provide G field work support on this project and other related BRT activities.

MANNETTE DEBORAH BAIRD joined the BRT team in October 2005 elly as Administrative Assistant of the BRT. She manages BENJAMIN the day to day operations of the BRT office and ensures oseph ʻShell’ that the needs of our visitors and the general public are K met in true BRT style. J Not pictured are two directors residing in Trinidad: LAWRENCE DUPREY, Chairman of CL Financial SOLOMON Ltd. and RUSSELL MARTINEAU, SC an experienced arahnaz senior counsel and former Attorney General of Trinidad BAIRD &Tobago. eborah F D SLOGAN DANIEL Protecting our sea of life akiya must be our way of life! Z www.buccooreeftrust.org Out of the Blue 3 T E A M B R T N T S Mr. Mac E W P R O J E C

Hyacinth & Kaye ‘Shell’ & Barry T A t s e a USA B R wway.ay. I amam prettypretty suresure itit waswas thethe team that plays together, high point of the day for us all. he Buccoo Reef Trust in Trinidad and works well together. It Tobago has a sister organization in the was with this belief that WWee aarrivedrrived atat CharlottevilleCharlotteville aroundaround United States: the Buccoo Reef Trust USA A T on Friday 02 September 2005 the 111:301:30 a.m.a.m. aandnd settledsettled atat LLover’sover’s BBayay (BRT USA). The US company has been incorporated as a non-profit company in the directors and staff of the BRT - a wonderfulwonderful place.place. ActivitiesActivities forfor State of Maine and, as of May 2005, has also team decided to have a day of tthehe ddayay iincludedncluded cookingcooking fishfish (which(which Kelly been recognized by the US Internal Revenue total recreational interaction. Mr. wwee boughtbought fromfrom fishermen)fishermen) andand Service as a tax exempt, 501 (c) 3 Corporation. Mac’ (Gerald), Owen, Rich, ‘Saga’ ppotatoesotatoes uusingsing sstonetone fire.fire. WeWe thenthen This status allows individuals and corporations (Roland), ‘Shell’ (Joseph), Kaye, pplayedlayed cricketcricket onon thethe sand.sand. ThisThis in the USA to make tax deductible contributions Hyacinth, Kelly, Farahnaz and game generated much laughter as to the Buccoo Reef Trust USA in support of its myself (Barry) boarded BRT’s new everyone had their chance batting charitable activities. research vessel, Reef Angel II, at at the crease. After a fun game the Buccoo Bay Jetty and headed of cricket we soaked in the warm, The BRT USA shares a common vision with off to Charlotteville. The day saline water of Lover’s Bay. When the company in T&T. That is, a world in which was sunny, the water was calm - a it was about 4:00 pm, we decided to ‘Saga’ the tropical islands is conserved for the benefit perfect day for a boat ride along call it a day so we extinguished the of future generations while maximizing present the north-east coast of Tobago. stone fires, collected all our stuff opportunities for sustainable livelihoods that With Mr. Mac at Reef Angel’s helm, and boarded the boat to head back Rich enhance the quality of human life. This will Owen, Saga and I decided to throw to Buccoo. be achieved by working in the Caribbean to a line along the way while the develop capacity in the tropical marine sciences others watched on with enthusiasm Owen, feeling a little bit defeated through research, education and participatory and great expectation . at not having caught a single fish conservation activities. for the day, decided to throw his Whereas we did not catch any fish fishing line one more time. Before The BRT USA differs from its counterpart in Trinidad and Tobago in that it has a US based on the journey to Charlotteville, long I joined in with my line. we certainly caught a good view Then suddenly, “Ah-haaaa!” Owen Board of Directors and will be focusing on Owen American philanthropy to support its programs. of a large pod of dolphins off the shouted, “I feel something on the The BRT USA will be raising funds to endow Parlatuvier/Castara coast. The line!” Everyone became excited scholarship programs that will facilitate the sight was awesome! Scores of and huddled around. He had caught exchange of students and educators between dolphins began accompanying us a bonito weighing about 10lbs. the US and Caribbean. It is anticipated that along the journey. They often Moments later I felt a tug on my high school and university students, as well as came close to the bow of our line. “Could it be?”, I gasped. Sure high school teachers and college professors, moving vessel and would sometimes enough, when the line was pulled will participate in such educational programs. swiftly duck under the boat to the in, there was a pretty 8lbs salmon Equally important will be the establishment of other side. On a few occasions fflutteringluttering onon itsits end.end. ForFor t thehe a research fund to encourage and facilitate some of them did an out-of-water, rremainderemainder ofof ourour returnreturn journey,journey, intellectual exchange and collaboration acrobatic flip then splashed right wwee ssharedhared llightight cconversationonversation asas wwee bbetweenetween thethe USUS andand CaribbeanCaribbean marinemarine sciencescience bbackack bbeneatheneath thethe water’swater’s surfacesurface ccomparedompared tthehe ccatchatch ooff tthehe dday.ay. YYes,es, ccommunities.ommunities. TheThe researchresearch programprogram willwill bebe – thethe showshow wwasas sspectacular.pectacular. TTheyhey iit’st’s truetrue thatthat Owen’sOwen’s fishfish weighedweighed aaimedimed atat expandingexpanding thethe knowledgeknowledge basebase forfor pplayedlayed w withith usus andand p performederformed mmoreore tthanhan mmine,ine, bbutut I aamm wwillingilling ttoo tthehe entireentire CaribbeanCaribbean basinbasin andand determiningdetermining thethe fforor a goodgood halfhalf o off anan hourhour oror so,so, bbetet t thathat y youou p preferrefer e eatingating s salmonalmon iimpactmpact ofof humanhuman activitiesactivities inin thethe region.region. bbeforeefore headingheading offoff onon ooverver bonitobonito anyday.anyday. ttheirheir m merryerry IIff youyou wouldwould likelike toto knowknow moremore aboutabout thethe BuccooBuccoo RReefeef TrustTrust USAUSA p pleaselease contactcontact Dr.Dr. RichardRichard Farahnaz LLangton:angton: e-mail:e-mail: [email protected];[email protected]; oorr atat thethe DarlingDarling MarineMarine Center,Center, 193193 ClarksClarks CCoveove RRoad,oad, WWalpole,alpole, MEME 0457304573 phone:phone: 207-207- 563-3146 x 421.

Out of the Blue 4 T E A R T M B N E W P R O J E C T S ECONOMIC VALUATION OF TOBAGO’S CORAL REEFS GEF-IWCAM – BRT GETTING READY n October this year, the to the project partners in the two TO START A REGIONAL PROJECT BRT started a new project in countries (both governmental and collaboration with the World he long-awaited UNEP/UNDP/ I non-governmental organizations). Resources Institute - a leading GEF Integrated Watershed The methodology will be designed environmental think-tank based Tand Coastal Area Management to allow consistent and repeatable in Washington D.C., USA, (see Project (IWCAM) is now finally set to valuation of coral reef goods and (IWCAM) is now www.wri.org). The Project entails start. This large regional projectfinally funded set to services, primarily relying on This large regional developing an economic valuation by thethe GlobalGlobal Environment Facilityproject (GEF) funded is existing data and data sources. Environment of goods and services derived being implemented by UNEPFacility and UNDP, (GEF) and Following the development of the is from coral reefs and coral reef- co-executed by UNEP-CAR/RCU and CEHI. Joint missions from methodology and its associated associated systems in Saint these organizations will be visiting Trinidad and Tobago on the 14th estimates for the three pilot Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago. and 15th November to officially start the project and sign the relevant countries, the methodology will Dr. Lauretta Burke of the WRI, agreements. Their visits will also involve several presentations be disseminated throughout the who was the main author of the about the project’s aims; reporting/accounting procedures to the wider insular Caribbean through a highly acclaimed “Reefs At Risk in local partner agencies, such as the THA and BRT; and a field trip to network of partners. The Buccoo the Caribbean” produced in 2004, the designated Target Area, the famous Buccoo Reef Marine Park. Reef Trust is an important partner will be leading the project and The Buccoo Reef Trust will be responsible for implementing a large in this project and will serve as the making regular visits to the island. component of the project, which is the National Demonstration main data repository. Moreover, She will help develop a spatial Project for Trinidad and Tobago. This 3 year project will involve the BRT will develop a geographic threat analysis using a geographic recruiting 5 new staff at the BRT and implementing a wide range information system (GIS) focused information system (GIS) in order of activities (for further information see http://www.buccooreef. on coral reefs and threats to coral to best characterize the location org/GEF_IWCAM.htm). reefs in Tobago. Miss Zakiya and nature of the threats to coral ‘Saga’ Daniel (BSc, MSc) was recently reefs in Tobago. Training in both recruited by the BRT to implement economic valuation and spatial the project in Tobago. threat analysis will be provided Rich MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTION UNIT TO BE ESTABLISHED AT BRT HEADQUATERS CONCH REARING PROJECT n September 2005 UNDERWAY IN TOBAGO the The specific objective of Inter-American he Buccoo Reef Trust Fighting Conch can reach a Development Ba I the project r e q u i r e d is pleased to announce is to help build Owen granted funds to support nk capacity for the production marketable size in as little to preserve the receipt of funding the e of multimedia content T as eight months, they would stablishment T o b a g o ’ s operation of an in-houseand from the J. B. Memorial Trust (DVDs/CDs/cassettes) marine environment still be substantially smaller Film Production Unit at the II for the establishment of a that provides (a) tech which will support than the size of Queen Buccoo Reef Trust. This nical demonstration scale conch information for training tour complement and Conch harvested in the wild. project will build on the operators and government awareness building existing farm and training program for existing efforts and capacity This still offers the possibility employees on sustainable exercises in schools and Tobago. As part of the Trust’s in this area of activity by management of Tobago’s of augmenting traditional communities. aquaculture efforts, conch the BRT and will go a long marine environment; (b) markets and developing way in heightening public will be reared to market size in heightening information on Tobago’s The establishment of the new Tobago conch products, public awareness and sensitivity envir in a flow-through seawater and sensitivity onment, as well as Film Unit will enable the while potentially reducing tthathat are required to sustainable practices and system while their growth are req BRT to produce at least conserve Tobago’sui rmarineed to thethe heavyhea fishingvy f ishing Tobago’ guidelines for marine three (3) environmentally rate and food consumption is resources. s marine pressure onon activities for tourists; and related educational carefully monitored. Although (c) educati ourour QueenQueen onal material documentaries in the first rearing experiments in and good practices year and ten (10) in the C o no c hn c h Florida suggest that juvenile second and third years. population.

Out of the Blue 5 R E S C H E A R R E E F N E W S MONITORING TOBAGO’S REEFS USING LASERS, COMPUTERS AND VIDEO - TESTING THE METHOD

onitoring the health of Tobago’s coral affordable underwater Barry Lovelace setting up a chain transect reefs is essential if we are to protect and video technologies Mmanage this priceless resource. We which generate archive exactly 60 cm in front of the lens. By keeping all know that information leads to knowledge, images useful for long-term comparisons. The both small red laser dots together on the and knowledge leads to better decisions. For method selected by the BRT is based on the seabed, the video operator can easily maintain effective management, we must have knowledge monitoring program used in the Florida Keys a constant distance between the video and the of the current status of Tobago’s coastal zone, Marine Sanctuary by the Florida Fish and coral community. The method has proven to and then monitor any changes to its biological, Wildlife Institute (FFWI) and jointly developed be very cost-effective and practical, and can ecological and physical parameters. Monitoring by the National Coral Reef Institute (NCRI) in provide detailed information of changes over is key to understanding where, when and why Florida. time at fixed stations. It also generates large the environment changes – whether it is for the archives of geo-referenced video footage that better or for the worst. From April to August this year, the BRT evaluated can be used for retrospective studies and this methodology with the assistance of Miss qualitative visual comparisons over time. For In a drive to establish an effective, long- Charlotte Mathews, who undertook this study further details please contact Dr Owen Day at term coral reef monitoring program and in as part of her MSc thesis at King’s College, [email protected] . preparation for the forthcoming GEF-IWCAM London (see pg. 15). The method basically project (see pg. 5), Dr Day of the Buccoo relies on taking video of the coral community Brain coral under chain transect Reef Trust reviewed the various methods used along 20 meter transects (straight segments) throughout the Caribbean. The better known selected at random on different reefs. The methods are those of CARICOMP, ReefCheck, footage is then analyzed using special image and AGRRA. While these all have their specific analysis software (CPCe) developed by staff advantages, none makes use of new and at NCRI. The software helps to estimate the community structure such as, the abundance of live coral species, dead Charlotte Mathews conducting a video transect corals, sponges, algae, soft corals, etc... The method relies on an ingenious use of two small underwater laser pointers attached to the video housing in such a way that their beams intersect at AS A MATTER OF FACT! Over 116 million people live within 100km of the Caribbean coast and over 25 million tourists visit the Caribbean a year, spending the majority of their time in coastal areas. Nearly two-thirds of the Caribbean’s reef are directly threatened by human activities, and it is estimated that future economic losses range between US$350-US$870 million per year from diminished coral reef fisheries, dive tourism and shoreline protection services. Coral bleaching can be a response to many different stresses, including salinity changes, excessive light, toxins and microbial infections, but increases in sea surface temperature (SST) is the most common cause of bleaching over wide areas.

The average temperature of the Earth has risen by 0.60C to 0.80C in the last 100 years and the global average sea level has risen some 18cm. Before 1983, no mass incidents of coral bleaching were formally reported in the Caribbean.

Sources: 1. Reefs at Risk in the Caribbean, Laretta Burke and Jonathan Maidens (2004). 2. P.L Jokiel and S.L. Coles (1977) . 3. P.W. Glynn. (1996)

Out of the Blue 6 R H E S E A R C R E W S E F N E [CONTINUED FROM COVER PAGE] Tobago’s Worst Coral Bleaching Event In the last twenty years, there has been a (Millepora spp) started to bleach at Mt. Irvine and dramatic increase in the reported incidence Buccoo Reef, then Brain Corals (Colpophyllia of mass coral bleaching events, which spp, Diploria spp), and in early October most many experts believe is due to elevated sea species of hard corals and some soft corals temperatures as a result of global warming. (Gorgonia spp). The reefs on the Caribbean The worst event was in 1998, when bleaching Coast between Crown Point and Charlotteville occurred in all three oceans but particularly are now particularly badly affected, with up to throughout the Indian Ocean. 90% of colonies bleached at some sites. The reefs at Speyside and south of Crown Point The Situation in Tobago are also showing signs of bleaching, though to Tobago’s coral reefs are currently experiencing a lesser extent. From these first impressions, the worst mass bleaching event for many years it appears that the worst hit areas are those Bleached fi nger corals (Porites spp.) and according to some dive operators, who that are also affected by pollution from the resources to implement an island-wide have been here for over 18 years, the worst land, such as inadequately treated sewage and monitoring program to determine the extent in living memory. The current coral bleaching sediment from soil erosion. and severity of the situation, as well as to seems to be have been triggered by the high sea establish a medium to long term program to o surface temperatures (30-31 C) that have been International agencies involved in the monitor site-specific coral recovery/mortality. affecting the Caribbean since July this year and conservation of coral reefs, recommend that The Buccoo Reef Trust has sent out a call which also produced this season’s abnormally in order to minimize the damage caused by for assistance to many relevant institutions powerful hurricanes. Coral bleaching is now bleaching, tropical nations that have coral reefs and donor agencies, including the Global being reported throughout the entire Caribbean should focus on improving the resilience of Environment Facility (GEF), the International region, including Barbados, Antigua, Puerto their coastal ecosystems by reducing pollution Coral Reef Action Network (ICRAN), the United Rico, Cuba, Panama, etc. from sewage, wastewater, sedimentation and Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and over-fishing. Land-based sources of pollution the United Nations Development Programme From initial underwater video surveys carried are already considered to be the major causes (UNDP). Coral Cay Conservation (CCC), a non- out by the BRT; the Department of Marine of reef degradation in the Caribbean (and in profit organization based in the UK who have Resources and Fisheries, THA; and from Tobago) and these may soon be exacerbated extensive experience in coral reef monitoring, information gathered from dive operators, by the predicted increase in bleaching events. have offered to send out a team of four the bleaching event in Tobago is severe experienced divers in mid-October to help and widespread. In September, Fire Corals The Buccoo Reef Trust is currently mobilizing establish and implement a monitoring program. LAND AND MARINE POLLUTION By Che Dillon, member of Y.E.A.H (Youth for Environmental Awaren of Habitats; see pg. 13) a fertilizer, causing nutrient enrichment and based sources of arine pollution is defined as the consequently prolific algal growth. The algae marine pollution. The introduction of substances or energy compete with marine organisms for oxygen fishing industry may soon Mby man, into the marine environment in the water and can eventually overgrow and be in a state of turmoil due to, that results in deleterious effects such as harm destroy our coral reefs. in part, pollution and the subsequent to living resources, hazards to human health destruction of our reefs. Reefs serve as a and hindrances to marine activities. If we only focus on upgrading facilities natural breeding ground and nursery for young and developing infrastructure without any fish such as groupers and some sharks. Most marine pollution around Tobago results emphasis on environmental conservation and from land-based sources which arise from preservation, our thoughtless actions will come Tobago must reduce the volume of land-based domestic, agricultural and industrial wastes. back to haunt us in the very near future. Human contaminants reaching its surrounding waters, Here in Tobago the aggressive tourism and health may be directly or indirectly affected by if its present course of development is to be infrastructural development drive that our contamination from improper waste disposal sustainable. In order to achieve this, more government, and by extension our population, methods. The ingestion of contaminated effective enforcement of the legislation that has embarked on is having disastrous effects seafood can cause bacterial and viral infections already exists, is required. Public education on our marine environment. resulting in vomiting and/or diarrhea. Swimming that encourages a better understanding and in contaminated seawater may result in similar appreciation of our biological diversity is Increased human populations in many coastal problems, as well as skin and eye infections. necessary. We need to be aware of the far- areas of Tobago, coupled with inadequate and reaching effects that our choices can have. We insufficient sewage treatment, have negatively One of our island’s most important industries need to understand that in the end, it all comes impacted our fragile marine resources, is also being adversely affected by our land- back to us. especially our coral reefs. Sewage acts as

Out of the Blue 7 M A R I C U L T U R E

eamoss is the collective term given to a commonly used in the production of the ever popular on the cultivation aspects. The St. Lucia visit variety of edible seaweed species used in seamoss “punch” or drink. The popularity of this drink provided some valuable insights into the cultivation Sfood and drink preparations throughout the can be attributed to its age-old reputation as a potent of seamoss and highlighted some of the potential Caribbean. It has no true roots, leaves or flowers but aphrodisiac, in that it enhances sexual stamina. advantages of assessing Eucheuma isiforme (the instead, it consists of branches and fronds attached While there maybe no scientific evidence to prove main species farmed in St. Lucia) as an alternative by an anchor to a stable surface from which the this, seamoss is esteemed as a valuable health cultivation species in Tobago. entire plant absorbs nutrients from the surrounding food. It is a good source of complex carbohydrates, seawater. proteins, vitamins (A, D, E, F and K), minerals (2) On the 14th of June 2005 the BRT hosted a (iron, zinc, copper, calcium, nitrogen, potassium and one-day workshop entitled “Developing Tobago’s The gel extracted from seamoss can be used in sodium) and roughage. No wonder it enhances and Seamoss Industry” at PRDI Building, Scarborough, making a range of interesting products. It is often promotes muscle development, mental alertness Tobago. Participants included researchers, agro- used as a thickener or stabilizer in milk-based drinks, and boost energy levels. This all-natural, thick, processors, farmers, food and beverage managers, in making fruit beverages, ice creams, puddings, creamy, great tasting drink is often marketed as a seamoss processors, home economic teachers non-gelatin gels, bakery products, soaps, skin care perfect “meal in a bottle” for the health enthusiast... as well as representatives from various funding products, and the list goes on. and rightly so! companies and government institutions. The popularity of seamoss Widespread over-harvesting, pollution and Presentations at the workshop were delivered by The disturbance in areas where they naturally occur, Honourable Hilton Sandy, Secretary for Agriculture, drink can be att ributed to have resulted in a significant decrease in natural Marine Resources and the Environment, THA; Ms. stocks here in Tobago. Despite the decline in natural Farahnaz Solomon, Seamoss Project Co-ordinator, its age-old reputation as a stocks, the demand remains strong and is now supplied by imports from Trinidad and St. Lucia. pot ent aphrodisiac... Prices have increased sharply, with about 25 g of dry seamoss (with spices) now selling for approximately TT$10.00.

In 2004 the Buccoo Reef Trust embarked on an Inter-American Foundation (IAF) funded seamoss cultivation, processing and marketing project aimed at facilitating the development of a seamoss cultivation industry in Tobago, by providing the relevant resources, training and scientific support to farmers and processors. It is hoped that this project will contribute towards poverty reduction in coastal St. Lucian seamoss farmer cultivating communities by providing skills for an alternative, Eucheuma isiforme income generating opportunity. Two varieties of seamoss traditionally BRT; and Mr. Allan Smith, a regional seamoss expert used in Tobago; G. domingensis (left) and G. terete (right). The IAF funded seamoss project continued on track from St. Lucia. Mr. Sandy delivered the opening this year with several activities: address, in which he applauded the initiative taken Here in Tobago, only two species of seaweeds are by the BRT and pledged his Department’s support recognized as seamoss, Gracilaria domingensis, (1) In May 2005, two staff members of the Buccoo for the project. Ms. Farahnaz Solomon introduced the centipede type, and Gracilaria ‘terete’ (GT), the Reef Trust, Ms. Farahnaz Solomon and Mr. Barry the project to the participants and provided an bearded type. They are both red seaweeds that Lovelace visited St. Lucia to learn more about the overview of the “Tobago Experience” with respect produce agar gel on boiling. Locally, this gel is most workings of the seamoss industry, with emphasis to the seamoss industry. Mr. Allan Smith delivered

Out of the Blue 8 M A R I C U L T U R E

To make your own seamoss punch or ice-cream follow the instructions below.

• Submerge 25g of dried seamoss in water with 1 teaspoon of A cross-section of participants at the Seamoss Cultivation/ Seamosslime juice and gel allow seamoss to rehydrate for at least 30 minutes. Marketing Workshop. At the foreground are Mr. Jeffrey Joseph of J’n’J ice cream and Ms. Lori Lee Lum of the Institute • Place the rehydrated seamossDelights in about 2.5 liters of boiling water of Marine Affairs (IMA). and add desired spices (nutmeg, cinnamon and bay leaf). • Boil for at least 30 minutes or 5 minutes in a pressure cooker. a presentation entitled “Seaweed use, cultivation • Strain fluid while hot and set liquid to cool until gel forms. and management in the Caribbean: a global • Keep gel refrigerated until ready to use. and regional perspective”. Participants were very interactive during the panel discussion chaired by one of our Directors Ms. Kaye Trotman. Several individuals from both Trinidad and Tobago shared their experiences in the industry and a • 1 cup seamoss gel few expressed an interest in getting involved • 1 cup seamoss •Seamoss 1 tin condensed ice milk cream at the processing level through gel production Seamoss• 1 cup evaporated punch milk • 1 tin evaporated milk and the production of a seamoss drink or ice • sugar • A dash of Angostura bitters cream. A definite delight at the workshop was • Angostura bitters the seamoss cake and ice-cream prepared by • 1 teaspoon lime juice Beat mixture well, and set in the Ms Katrina Callendar, an entrepreneur who is • 1/2 teaspoon essence of freezer until mixture just begins currently involved with packaging and selling dried choice to gel. Beat mixture again in seamoss in Tobago. a mixer. Set in freezer for at Add seamoss gel and evaporated least two hours, scoop out, The BRT also participated in the World Food Day milk to the water. Blend garnish with a cherry and serve. Exhibition 2005 hosted by the Tobago House ingredients and add sugar to of Assembly. Seamoss was the focus of the Dr. Allan Smith, taste. Add a dash of Angostura exhibition as the use of the gel in the production CANARI, Regional bitters, lime juice and essence. of value added products such as a drink and ice- seamoss expert Serve chilled. cream was highlighted. There was collaboration between the BRT, J ‘n’ J Ice Cream, a local ice-cream manufacturer and Paul Williams, a local drink producer,producer, which resulted in samples of both products being available to the public.

Katrina Callendar, a seamoss processing/packaging entrepreneur distributing seamoss information at the World Food Day Fair in the BRT booth.

Out of the BlueBlue 9 E D U C A T I O N B . E . A . C . H The city of Coralville is under attack. The citizens of Coralville need help! ent Pesticide Punk, Dumpster Duchess They decide to call Super Mangrover on Adv ures and Mudd Eyes are rapidly killing and he o the Sponge Ray! T f 1 injuring all reef creatures in sight. 2 Let me destroy The lenticels on my mangrove you with my chemicals! roots are tingling... oh my gosh! The PESTIFY!!!!! people of Coralville need my help!

S U R PE VE R MANGRO I’ll unleash all my garbage into the rivers and seas! Created by: Darion Fraser, Kimberley Moses, Maurice Caruth, Hyacinth Armstrong. Edited by Kelly Mannette I’ll ah make ah dis water so dirty, you he Adventures of Super Mangrover can’t ah even breathe ah! was created in 2004 to celebrate TWorld Wetlands Day and more importantly, to highlight to children and adults the important linkage that exists between mangrove forests and coral reef ecosystems.

Taking in all the pesticides, garbage Mangroves play a vital role in protecting and mud, Super Mangrover filters out the coral reef ecosystem from land- Super Mangrover confronts the evil all the impurities and with a huge blast based stresses. They prevent chemicals, doers disintegrates the evil trio in mere silt, nutrients and other pollutants from seconds! reaching the sensitive waters of the reef. 3 4 The roots of the Red Mangrove also You evil doers come provide a home for juvenile fish, lobster, here killing my friends with garbage, mud and conch and other reef animals. pesticides! I DARE YOU TO USE YOUR Is that all The Buccoo Reef Complex (Buccoo/ Bon ‘powerful attacks’ you’ve got?? Accord Mangrove Forest, Bon Accord ON ME! Ha! Lagoon and Buccoo Reef) is a wonderful example of the interconnectedness of these ecosystems. The mangrove forests perform the same “super hero” duties as Super Mangrover and provide a home for many of our young, popular reef animals.

YEY! SUPER MANGROVER DoD you have an o you have an HAS DONE IT AGAIN! envirocartoone idea nvirocartoon idea you will like to share LET HIM HAVE IT! with us? Our contact information is at the back of this publication. We are eager to hear from you! And so Super Mangrover saves Coralville from the evil polluters...until next time!

Out of the Blue 10 E D U C A T I O N B . E . A . C . H BUILDING ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS of COASTAL HABITATS he academic year, 2004-2005 was From October 2004 to June a very busy one for the education 2005, 966 eight and nine Tstaff at the Trust. Educational year old students from 39 activities took place at the primary primary schools spent a and secondary school levels and total of 5 classroom hours also at the community level, through learning what a coral reef exhibitions. Staff collaborated with is, why they are important other NGOs and Government agencies to Tobago, what threats they and spent quality time interacting with face and how they as young young people in a variety of settings people can minimize some – some challenging, all very rewarding. of the threats. Actually, This article highlights the education students did all the things activities that were spearheaded by I just mentioned. They Trinity Boys at the BRT Offi ce the BRT. learned all about coral Based Assessments (a component reefs through science, map reading, of the Caribbean Examination Council Primary School vocabulary, writing and art. This Ordinary Level Examination). A one This program, though constantly cross curricula approach was very week program of lectures and field evolving, has a simple focus – to ensure appealing as was evidenced in the trips was organized and executed over children know about, interact with and enthusiasm exuded by both students the Easter vacation. Lectures covered appreciate the marine environment. and teachers. coral reef and mangrove ecology, While the marine environment is vast, oceanography, fisheries management, the BRT focuses its teachings on Now five hours may seem like a lot of Geographic Information System time to teach about the environment. applications and seamoss cultivation. However, when placed in the context Field trip activities included snorkeling, of fostering environmental stewardship, seine pulling, visits to Buccoo and five hours is merely a drop in the Speyside Reefs, and hikes to Little bucket. So, BRT went one step Tobago and Argyle Waterfall. further and encouraged schools to The students benefited greatly from participate in a field trip to the Buccoo this one week program as they had Reef and environs. About one-third the opportunity to interact with a of the students had an opportunity variety of informational resources to visit the reef in a glass bottom – government organizations, private boat. This experience was truly citizens, professionals and NGOs. rewarding because not only were the Hyacinth Armstrong lectures students excited about being out of the The B.E.A.C.H. program of activities to a group of eager students classroom or being on the water, but came to a close with the staging of just before they boarded a they were also able to relate what they reef tour boat Sea, Sun & Science: A Marine Science learnt in the classroom to what they Experience (read story on p.12) coral reefs because Tobago’s coastal were seeing. Their questions reflected their assimilation of the information that waters are blessed with many of these Last year (2004-2005) proved to they were exposed to. Furthermore, natural treasures; they are beautiful be a fruitful year for the education their general observations greatly ecosystems; and teaching about their department. Not only were our enhanced their overall understanding diversity and interactions allows us to various activities well received, but and appreciation for the unique incorporate practices and concepts our relationships with Environment environment that is the coral reef. that can be related to other aspects of TOBAGO; the THA Department the natural environment. of Natural Resources and the Secondary School Environment; and the THA Division of BRT’s interaction at this level Education, continued to flourish. The Belle Garden A.C. Students was not as expansive as that at year 2005-2006 will see improvements continue to enjoy themselves the primary school level. Here, after a reef trip to this invaluable service that BRT BRT acted as an informational provides as new partnerships are resource, especially to students sought and existing activities are conducting research at the revamped. Ordinary and Advanced Levels. In fact, BRT held a unique If you want to know more about what we session for 33 young men from are planning or want to make a contribution the Trinity College East High towards our existing efforts please contact School, Trinidad, to assist Hyacinth Armstrong at h.armstrong@buccoor them in collecting information eeftrust.org or Kelly Mannette at kmannette@ for their Geography School buccooreeftrust.org.

Out of the Blue 11 Out of the Blue 11 E D U I O N C A T The YEAHs of Y.E.A.H.

By Kelly Mannett e They got a chance to learn about the fishes. Heavy rains the previous marine environment through a series night caused the usual seine of lectures which covered areas of pulling activities to be cancelled, Coral Reef and Mangrove Ecology, but participants thoroughly enjoyed Marine Organisms, Environmental scaling the nearby rocky shores to Laws and Regulations and Sea Turtle investigate some of the organisms Ecology. Participants found these found in these ecosystems. Imagine lectures interesting but were even their excitement when a sea urchin more fascinated with the spectacular crawled along their hands for the scenes of nature in the Wild T&T and first time or an eel was spotted! Seasonal Sea/Coral Seas videos. Finally, it was time to say goodbye Without a doubt, participants had at the very informal closing the most fun on the field trips. On ceremony held at the BRT office the tour of the Buccoo Reef- they where participants did a great job got a chance to snorkel over the of showcasing some or all aspects reef, walk on the sand bar and of the week’s activities. Participants ahhh Sea, Sun and Science… bathe near the Blue Hole. At Mt. and parents were very pleased with three little words that can Irvine participants investigated the the week’s activities, to the extent Abring a smile to your face! marine life, snorkeled excitedly with that some participants want to return And smiles it did bring to the 20 stingrays and took the opportunity to next year! At the end of the program, participants of the fourth annual Sea, let go of their fear of swimming while participants left with memories, Sun and Science vacation program tightly grasping my arm! Our young souvenirs, smiles on their faces and which ran from 25 July – 29 July, mariners also tried their hand at a host of new friends. A special 2005. Condensed into one week, navigating the Island Girl catamaran thank you must be said to every participants thoroughly enjoyed (lots of tossing and turning) while single person who contributed to the themselves as they tried to make others relaxed on the catamaran’s success of this year’s Sea, Sun and every minute count. bow in nets hung over the sea. Science program! Till next year!

It was obvious that participants were Scuba diving for the fist time was out to have fun (and learn in the exhilarating as participants took to Sea, Sun and Science Participants process of course!) from day one. the sea, spying on the corals and

Out of the Blue 12 E D U I O N C A T The YEAHs of Y.E.A.H. YEAH we are... YEAH we are going to... Youth for Environmental Awareness of Habitats; or assist Tobagonians in playing their part Y.E.A.H as we are commonly known. We are a group by targeting the youth. The more youth of eager young individuals seeking to evolve the face that are educated and are made aware of environmental awareness through education, of the of the importance of caring for the environment, the louder our voice island’s youth. becomes. Y.E.A.H is going to embark on a number of educational activities that

OR EN will mobilize the island’s youth to preserve and YEAH we believe... H F VIRONM UT EN YO TA secure this paradise for future generations. that the face of Tobago’s L environment should no longer be scarred by the destructive hands YEAH you... of Man. Tobago’s children should We are appealing to all citizens, all readers no longer view the responsibility and all children of Tobago. Heed our call and of sustaining the environment as become a part of our drive to save Tobago. A WA Everyone can play a part in making life more a burden but as a civic duty. This RE TS NESS BITA eco-friendly and in preserving our environment. island has a unique and picturesque OF HA To the youth, a special appeal is being made to physical environment that leaves all you to rise up and make the first positive step onlookers, local and foreign, spellbound. towards securing your future. In this fight, age shall It is a beauty that we all, as inhabitants, take be no hindrance; all that is needed is a positive mind and credit for without playing our part to sustain it. Y.E.A.H a will to make a difference. We need to stand together and believes that now is the time for all beneficiaries to look the negative element in the eye, and when the question is play their part in sustaining our island paradise. asked, “Do You think you can make a difference?” the answer can only be: “YEAH, I CAN!’ Y.E.A.H. AT ONE WITH NATURE nlike regular youths who may have spent the is an environmental group, it doesn’t mean that adventurous members, like myself, opted to climb day in front of the television on Wednesday members can’t be afraid of cows! Finally, after about to the top of the waterfall where we waved to the UIndependence Day, 31st August 2005, a 30 minute, never-ending hike, the group got to ant-like group way down below. After a lot of the youths of YEAH (Youth for Environmental rest and laze around by the waterfall. Fascinated eating, we started the short trek out. The Awareness of Habitats) decided to become one by this natural wonder, some members chose to group ensured that they took nothing with nature as they hiked to the majestic Highland take a swim in the deeper sections while others but pictures and memories Waterfall in Moriah. It was an easy hike along a opted to soak in a little area dubbed “the jacuzzi” and left nothing but scenic trail inhabited by wildlife- the occasional bird - an area where the force of the water created a footprints. and cows. The previously chattery group was at little soothing spot to relax. Let’s just say there times reduced to utter silence and frozen stances was a lot of competition for this area. Some whenever a cow was encountered of the more on the trail. Now, granted this C O N S I O N E R V A T A W A R E N E S S MOORINGS INSTALLED AT CORAL GARDENS

hose of you who have recently been out a key role in the project, advising on the Dredging and Diving Contractor. The large 4ft on Buccoo Reef will have noticed that preferred mooring system and identifying the anchors were buried at the selected sites using Tthere are now 11 new moorings on Coral exact locations on Coral Gardens where the a powerful water-jet. The water-jet is used to Gardens. These moorings were needed to stop moorings were needed. liquefy the sand, which allows the anchors to the damage caused by anchors and anchor- literally sink into place without the use of noisy ropes from reef tour boats operating in the area. Custom-made 18” mooring buoys were imported pneumatic-hammers or potentially polluting This extensive patch reef is one of the most from Florida and designed to allow the chain to hydraulic drills and fluids. The water-jet was beautiful areas of live coral inside Buccoo Reef pass right through them to make it very hard powered by a sea-water pump operated from and a popular snorkeling site for visitors and for potential thieves. Each mooring buoy is a small barge, and the operation was closely locals. The area is dominated by the massive fitted with a 6ft long, easily replaceable, piece supervised by staff from the BRT and the THA. Star coral, Montastrea annularis, and is home of polypropylene rope, which can be attached to over 200 species of reef fish and countless to the reef boat. The buoys are attached to This project is the first of many activities invertebrates. Damage caused by anchors will the seabed using a “Manta Ray-type” anchor planned by the Buccoo Reef Management hopefully now be a thing of the past. system, which was designed, built and installed Committee, which was formed in November by Adrian Vlugter who runs the local company, 2004. The success of the project is a clear The project was initiated by the Buccoo Reef indication that collaborative management is Management Committee at a meeting in the best approach when dealing with marine February 2005, and later received the official parks, where multiple stakeholders operate approvals from the Tobago House of Assembly and interact. and Maritime Services in Trinidad. The installation of these moorings was undertaken For any further information about this project as a collaborative effort between the Reef Tour or to report any damage or misuse of the Operators, the Buccoo Reef Trust and the moorings please call us at 635 2000 or email Department of Marine Resources and Fisheries us at [email protected].

of the THA. The Reef Tour Operators played 18” moorings buoys installed at Coral Gardens REEF MEN AND WOMEN TRAINED IN TOUR GUIDING n September 8th an Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry took the form of highly interactive on the 6th September, 2005 at the Mt. overwhelming twenty-eight Certification (TTTIC) system being lectures/discussions and slide shows Irvine Bay Hotel. Present from the Oparticipants graduated from implemented by the THA. on relevant aspects of taxonomy Buccoo Reef Trust were Mr. Gerald the Reef Tour Guiding Training course (species identification), ecology, Mac Farlane and Mr. Barry Lovelace. which was jointly sponsored by the In July, twelve participants geography and marine protected Department of Tourism (DT) and the successfully completed part one of areas management. The feature speaker for the ceremony, Department of Marine Resources the training, titled “Reef Tour Guiding Mr. Hilton Sandy, Secretary for and Fisheries (DMRF) of the Tobago I”, which was developed and delivered The success of the first session Agriculture, Marine Resources, House of Assembly (THA). This by Barry Lovelace and Owen Day of mushroomed into the second, with Fisheries and the Environment, two part course was part of the the Buccoo Reef Trust. Training more than twice the number of emphasized the fact that reef tour participants enrolling. Part two operators and boat owners are major took place in June 2005 with stakeholders in the management of lectures, Navia Beckles and the Buccoo Reef and as such they William Trim of DT; Solomon should be well trained and properly Baksh; Hendricson Waldron represented on the Buccoo Reef and Euthan Yeates of DMRF. Management Committee. Participants were trained in the areas of: Emergency First Response, First Aid for Harmful Marine Life Injury, Tour Guiding ABOVE (from left to right): Graduates of The Reef Tour Training program were Ethics, Requirements addressed by the Honorable Hilton Sandy (Secretary for Agriculture, Marine for Operating a Vessel Resource, Fisheries and the Environment, THA) and by Mr Erol Caesar (Acting at Sea, Safety at Director, Department of Marine Resources and Fisheries, THA) respectively at Sea and TTTIC the Mt. Irvine Bay Hotel Conference facility. Requirements. RIGHT: Mr. Barry Lovelace (Environmental Science and Information Coordinator, BRT) presents a certifi cate to Mr. Edgar Johnson, a Reef Tour Operator, for his The graduation achievement in completing the entire course. Mr. Johnson was the most senior ceremony for these participant and has a long, rich history in reef touring in Tobago. trainees took place C O N S I O N E R V A T A W A R E N E S S COLLEGE OF THE ATLANTIC VISITS TOBAGO n April of 2005 a group of sixteen College the bird population on Little Tobago Island of the Atlantic (COA) students and and issues related to co-management of Iprofessors, visited Tobago. They came Tobago’s marine resources. to Tobago to pursue an integrated course in Tropical Marine Ecology,Conservation Biology Working with Save Our Sea turtles (SOS), and Policy, and Creation and Management students monitored the arrival and egg laying of Protected Areas. Students spent 25 of leatherback turtles that frequent Tobago’s days learning about coral reefs, fishes and beaches each nesting season. COA students fisheries and the island’s coastal habitats, then developed a children’s website for SOS including mangroves and rainforests. and investigated an adopt-a-turtle program. A second group interviewed fishermen to They began their studies in Bar Harbor, investigate current issues related to the Maine, where the College is based, by island’s artisanal fishery and documented examining the diversity and natural history the history of change in the fishing practices of tropical marine flora and fauna. Students used in Tobago. Coral reefs are threatened also learned about and critiqued different not only by pollution and reef walking in College of the Atlantic students listen national and international approaches Tobago but also by the overgrowth of living attentively to a rain forest tour guide to conservation, with an emphasis on corals by the species Palythoa. This conservation in developing Caribbean anemone-like animal, which looks like a nations. With this background they came coral but isn’t, aggressively overgrows many prepared for an intense, but enjoyable, other invertebrate species. It thrives in the field experience where they put theory into nutrient rich waters around Tobago and practice. Using Tobago as a focus, students COA students investigated its distribution explored the diversity of issues surrounding and biology. Little Tobago is home to many parks and protected areas around the world. seabirds and is an important ecotourism destination. COA students interviewed guides As part of this integrated program students and investigated the tourists perceptions pursued independent research projects, of this important bird sanctuary. Finally, which culminated in final reports and issues related to comanagement of Tobago’s presentations on their return home to natural resources were investigated through Maine. The five project areas included; interviews of the Buccoo Reef Management sea turtle nesting studies, interviewing Committee members to give the COA fishermen, examination of biological threats students insight into the realities of the co- Trek in the rain forest to corals, an investigation of ecotourism and management process. MASTER’S STUDENT DO PROJECTS IN TOBAGO Between May and September this year, the BRT facilitated four visiting master’s students with their thesis field-work in Tobago. Their work involved the following; daoma Wosu from the MSc arie-Ann Chambers, from the elanie Broadhurst, from harlotte Mathews from the Aprogram in Biodiversity, Msame MSc program at Oxford, Mthe MSc program in Wildlife CMSc program in Environmental Conservation and Management undertook a questionnaire study to Biology and Conservation at Monitoring, Modelling and at Oxford University collected assess tourists’ attitudes towards Napier University undertook a Management at King’s College and analyzed data about Marine Protected Areas and more study on the population dynamics London. Her project assessed the the activities of stakeholders specifically towards the Buccoo of Elkhorn coral (Acropora advantages and disadvantages in Buccoo Reef Marine Park Reef Marine Park in Tobago. The palmata) in South-West Tobago. of a specific coral reef monitoring (BRMP) to produce a geographic project was aimed at examining the This work revealed some methodology using digital video and information system (GIS) that relationships between ecological/ interesting findings about the special image analysis software revealed trends and patterns environmental knowledge, behavior, physical and biological pressures – see page 6 for details. about how people interact with attitudes and conservation awareness that affect the population of this the environment. among tourists. ecologically-important coral For further details of these theses species. please contact the BRT office.

Out of the Blue 15 he BRT recently acquired a new boat, a 32ft Bowen pirogue, to provide greater safety and Tworking range for our on-going research and conservation projects. The boat has been named “Reef Angel II” and will provide complementary services to ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS the smaller “Reef Angel I”, which is more suitable for inshore work, in and around Tobago’s coast. The new boat is powered by two 90HP four-stroke WRITERS/EDITORIAL TEAM: Honda engines, which are considered to be one Owen Day of the most environmentally friendly marine Kelly Mannett e engines available, with remarkably low fuel Hyacinth Armstrong emissions and noise levels. “Reef Angel Farahnaz Solomon II” was provided by a donation from Barry Lovelace Zakiya Daniel CL Financial, a major sponsor of Kaye Trot man the Buccoo Reef Trust. Richard Langton Gerald Mac Farlane Deborah Baird

GRAPHIC DESIGNS & LAYOUT: Barry Lovelace

CONTRIBUTORS: Michelle Harris Che Dillon Jared Prima Alicia Mc David

BRT CONTACTS:

Cowie’s Building, Carnbee Junction, Auchenskeoch Road, Carnbee, Tobago, West Indies. Phone: 868-635 2000; Fax: 868-639-7333 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.buccooreeftrust.org

Out of the Blue 16