CORAL CORAL ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT New Look “Rebranding CORAL is a tremendous opportunity to both reflect on our past and think

strategically about the direction in which we are heading.” — Dr. Michael Webster, Executive Director of CORAL CORAL was founded in 1994 by a group of scuba divers committed healthy reefs for their survival (many actually eat coral polyps). The to promoting sustainable tourism in destinations. Initially, curvy white bands are reminiscent of the color patterns of our green dive flag logo was an ideal representation of this work, as butterflyfish, but also of the branched and curving shapes of the we were in essence “greening” the dive community. reef itself: picture a fish swimming through a matrix of corals. In the curve on the far left, you might see an ocean wave, a tabletop coral, Fast-forward nineteen years: divers remain—and will always or a mollusk shell. And the shade of blue we chose represents the remain—some of our greatest ambassadors, helping us implement color of the clean, clear, shallow water that coral reefs need to programs that leverage tourism for the benefit of reefs. But over the survive and that we are trying to ensure. years, we have broadened the scope and scale of our interventions to take a more comprehensive approach to coral reef conservation. Finally, the logo highlights the connection between the communities Today, our team looks at all aspects of the reef and uses the best with whom we work and the reef: notice the suggestion of indig- science and tools available to provide durable to the many enous artwork, and a traditional fishing hook (in the swirl) that has complex threats facing reefs. long connected humans to the reef.

To better project the organization we’ve become, in 2012 we The logo, however, represents only one aspect of our rebranding embarked on a rebranding effort. The first public iteration of this effort. In the coming months, you will notice a shift in the look and process is our new logo, one we are confident expresses the feel of all of our communications—from our print and online publica- expanding scope of our work in every detail. tions to our business cards. And later this spring, we will launch our redesigned website, which will better tell our story, make infor- Our new logo evokes many elements of a healthy coral reef. The mation easier to find, and attract more people dedicated to outline is a stylized butterflyfish—a quintessential reef fish. protecting coral reefs. Butterflyfish are found on reefs around the world and rely on

What’s Behind CORAL’s New Logo? To create the logo, CORAL enlisted design and branding expert Mat Squillante of Squillante Studios. Mat’s keen eye for design and visionary thinking were crucial to this project. “As I browsed through reference material to draw inspiration for this assign- ment, I found certain patterns and shapes that were repeated throughout the coral and the marine species living on the reef,” says Mat. “I worked with line and space to bring these two elements together into one graphic. The fish and coral are somewhat camouflaged together resembling the oneness between the fauna and flora of coral reefs.” What do you see in the logo?

CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT - 03 DR. MICHAEL WEBSTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JIM TOLONEN BOARD CHAIR

Nearly two decades ago, a group of divers united Coral reefs continue to be compromised by to form the (CORAL). From threats like pollution, overharvesting and that day forward, we have been focused on a damaging fishing practices, and climate change. singular purpose: saving coral reefs. At first, we However, we are encouraged by the fact that worked primarily to lessen the impacts from dive science-based local actions can improve the tourism on reefs. Over the years, we have broad- future of these amazing and critical ecosystems. ened our work to more directly respond to grow- In fact, in every community in which we have ing stresses on these magnificent—yet imperiled—ecosystems. developed partnerships and trust, we are seeing positive results: In collaboration with local communities, we have implemented better protection for reef ecosystems and economic benefits to programs that improve the health and resilience of reefs through the community. strategies like reducing fishing , minimizing sediment and other pollutants reaching near-shore ecosystems, and better CORAL is at an exciting inflection point. Under the leadership of enforcing existing management rules. Dr. Michael Webster and his team, we are expanding and elevating the scope, effectiveness, and urgency of our work. We are increas- More recently, we have recognized our opportunity—and our ingly being recognized by the conservation, philanthropic, and obligation—to do even more for reefs by ensuring that our regional science communities for past successes, and are being selected successes resonate on a global scale. For example, by taking to perform even greater work to ensure healthy reefs. As you will what we have learned working with hotels in Hawaii to develop a read in this annual report, we have accomplished a lot this past successful program in Mexico, or using a business plan developed year and are poised to move forward with a strong vision for in Fiji as a blueprint for one in Honduras, we are now developing future successes. a program that connects local leaders with the world’s best ideas, tools, and resources. I am personally energized by the opportunity to expand our work. To this end, we are also growing our Board of Directors and wel- As we continue to evolve as an organization, it is imperative that we comed the addition of several new board members already this more effectively express who we are and what we do and encour- year. Additionally, we are recruiting members for a new CORAL age others to join in our efforts. In this special annual report edition International Council, an advisory group that will help the Board and of CORAL Current, we discuss an important step we are making staff by promoting CORAL’s mission, fostering a deeper integration in this direction by launching a new logo. We are also thrilled to of science and policy in sustainable reef health, and developing share details about several new projects and initiatives underway resources to support conservation initiatives aligned with local, that illustrate how we are meeting the many challenges facing coral cultural, and economic interests. These additional leaders will reefs. You will learn about the Reefs Tomorrow Initiative, a partner- help ensure our future global momentum and impact. ship between CORAL and a team of renowned researchers and conservation practitioners that will help guide future conservation CORAL is more committed than ever to working with our partners and management decisions on coral reefs. And finally, you will find around the world to implement on-the-ground conservation out about the expansion of our work to new locations and to tackle strategies that benefit reefs—but we need your continued help. new threats. We are grateful for your past support and look forward to your future engagement. I look forward to sharing the outcomes of our projects and initiatives with you over the next year and beyond. We are very fortunate to have such dedicated and loyal supporters and are grateful for your continued partnership.

Staff and Board

CORAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS CORAL STAFF Conservation Grants Manager FIELD REPRESENTATIVES (as of February 15, 2013) Executive Director Kate Trevelyan-Hall Sirilo “Didi” Dulunaqio (Fiji) Jim Tolonen, Board Chair Dr. Michael Webster Accountant Adriana Gonzalez Haro (Mexico) C. Elizabeth Wagner, Secretary Conservation Programs Director Anne Shelley Riyan Heri Pamungkas (Indonesia) H. William Jesse, Jr., Treasurer Rick MacPherson Conservation Programs Associate Pamela Ortega (Honduras) John Anner Development Director and Coral Reef CSI Coordinator Kara Osada-D’Avella (Hawaii) Ian Boisvert Sarah Freiermuth Candace Leong Manoa Rasigatale (Fiji Shark Project) Linda Cain Finance and Administration Communications Assistant Arthur Sokimi (Fiji) Paula Hayes Director Joseph Clerici Julia Stewart (Hawaii) Matt Humphries Christine Reyes, CPA Membership Assistant Editor: Lisa Owens Viani Nancy Knowlton Assistant Director of Simone Sheridan Design: Squillante Studios Elizabeth Ulmer Conservation Programs REGIONAL MANAGERS Jason Vasques Contributing Authors: Kenneth Johnson (Mesoamerica) Sarah Freiermuth, Jim Tolonen, Pacific Coral Reef Naneng Setiasih (Coral Triangle) Resilience Program Director Michael Webster, and Susan Wolf Dr. Madhavi Colton FIELD MANAGERS Copyright © 2013 by the Communications Manager Liz Foote (Hawaii) Coral Reef Alliance (CORAL) Lisa Owens Viani Jenny Myton (Honduras) Molly Powers Tora (Fiji)

Cover: Close-up of the tentacles of a magnificent sea anemone (Heteractis magnifica). Photo by Gareth Williams.

02 - CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT New Sites Building MPA Networks Since our early days, marine protected areas (MPAs) have been a cornerstone of our conservation efforts. After all, while the advantages of MPAs are well documented, only about one percent of the world’s oceans have been designated “protected.” And the reality is that many of the current MPAs exist only as “paper parks,” where resources are scarce, management plans are poorly developed, and legislation is inadequately enforced.

Historically, we have worked to strengthen the management of existing MPAs; now, we’re going one step further, adding new sites that help establish biologically connected networks of protected areas that are more advanta- geous than one alone.

Bay Islands, Honduras Sunda-Banda Seascape, Indonesia

Photo by: Antal Borcsok Photo by: Jeff Yonover CORAL is working to protect Tela’s magnificent elkhorn coral. A gorgeous reef.

In Honduras, we are applying nearly a decade now, I have CORAL is also working to create Karangasem and Buleleng—by the lessons learned from our been involved in different layers an ecologically connected and replicating the successful volun- progress with the Roatan Marine of ’s conservation move- socioeconomically sustainable tary donation dive tag program Park to two ecologically impor- ment,” she says. “Never before network of locally managed at Amed. tant areas in the region—Utila have I seen such a positive shift marine areas (LMMAs) in the and Capiro Banks. This strategic in awareness as there is now. Sunda-Banda region of eastern “This multi-tiered project is really move is part of a larger effort to Since CORAL started working Indonesia. Our primary region of exciting,” says Jason Vasques, build momentum for a network of alongside our partners on the focus is the rapidly developing Assistant Director of Conserva- MPAs across the Bay Islands. island, people seem more area of Amed in northeastern tion Programs at CORAL. “If we committed and ready to take Bali, where we’ve been working succeed in our efforts, Bali Utila, the third smallest of the conservation to the next level.” for several years. And now, we will be a leader in supporting Bay Islands, shares important are also investigating conserva- ecosystem-based management fishery resources with both The neighboring town of Tela tion needs and opportunities in with regency-level entrance Roatan and mainland Honduras. and its associated reef, Capiro a traditional fishing community fees and incentives that pro- It currently has two designated Banks, are also strongly called Lamalera in Lesser mote large scale conservation. Areas of Special Interest within connected with Roatan and Sunda, and exploring ways to It would also serve as a good the Bay Islands National Marine Utila. In 2012, the mayor of Tela help that community protect model for other communities in Park, but management of these declared Capiro Banks—an and conserve their marine how to integrate resource MPAs has been passive. impressive reef boasting 69 resources. Both areas have management with the necessary percent live coral cover—a highly significant marine incentive and finance structures.” Last year, CORAL hired Pamela protected area. resources that are threatened by Ortega to boost the manage- unregulated and unmanaged ment capacity of Utila’s MPAs This municipal decree provides activities. and surrounding resources. protections to the reef and its Pamela has made considerable approximately 800 endangered CORAL is engaged in a multi- inroads in gaining local support elkhorn coral colonies. While a partner effort to build broad for more effective conservation municipal decree offers some support at the community and management. Her efforts include level of protection, it does not government levels for co- piloting conservation workshops offer the same level of visibility managing a network of LMMAs and producing a community and durability that federal de- in the Sunda-Banda Seascape. newsletter to align common signation does. CORAL is Our first project is to help to environmental interests; she is developing a proposal to see this develop a financing mechanism now working to establish a area federally declared as an to generate economic incentives fund to support the island’s Area of Wildlife Importance to for at least two major coral reef management activities. “For ensure its lasting protection. destination regencies in Bali—

04 - CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT New Interventions Improving “The focus on water quality is a natural transition for us Water Quality because we have been working with hotels to improve their level of sustainability and environmental reef stew- ardship for some time,” says Rick MacPherson, Conservation Programs Director at CORAL. “We are building on our years of experience, working with multiple stakeholders to ensure that destinations retain and enhance the exceptional resources that make them appealing for tourism.”

As some wastewater infrastruc- ture improvements are imple- mented by the County of Maui (others have yet to be funded and approved), Hawaii Field Manager Liz Foote is developing a series of resources that will give hotels the information and tools they need to transition to recycled water. Liz is also facilitating comprehensive water use surveys and workshops that disseminate much-needed technical expertise to staff from several West Maui properties.

In Mexico, we are just beginning our water quality work. Unfortu- nately, the existing water standards in the region were not

Photo by: Michael Webster developed with reefs in mind and A whitemouth moray eel (Gymnothorax meleagris) and knobby finger coral (Porites duerdeni) in clear Hawaiian water need much stronger environmen- tal criteria. Working together with o thrive, coral reefs need untapped opportunities to drive for irrigation for many years, but our partners in the Mesoamerican clean, clear water. When sustainable wastewater manage- progress has been slow due to Reef Tourism Initiative (MARTI), a healthy reef is over- ment practices. limited infrastructure and funding. we are encouraging local whelmed by excessive Fortunately support for water businesses to take wastewater nutrients, the ecosystem Through a program launched reclamation is gaining momen- treatment more seriously and Tcan undergo a shift from a last fall as part of the larger multi- tum, and the West Maui Ridge are aligning key stakeholders coral-dominated reef to an partner West Maui Ridge to Reef to Reef Initiative—a collaborative to strengthen current effluent algae-dominated reef, setting in Initiative in Hawaii, CORAL is effort addressing land-based disposal standards. motion a series of events that working with hotels to help them pollution as a means to reduce alter the reef’s biology and transition from using potable to stress on coral reefs—is defining By targeting the root causes productivity. Bottom line: the reclaimed water for landscaping, project priorities for wastewater of coral reef decline, such as impacts of excessive nutrients a practice that will keep millions reuse. poor water quality, overharvest- are incredibly damaging to the of gallons of treated wastewater ing, and destructive fishing, reef and the surrounding from being injected into under- “CORAL is an ideal partner, and creating partnerships with environment. ground wells each year. always looking for ways to communities to work on these coordinate, synergize, and problems together, we are CORAL is increasingly focusing Nutrient-laden wastewater from leverage our collective building sustainable solutions on wastewater management as these gravity-fed wells has been resources and efforts,” says that will help make coral reefs we broaden our conservation shown to emerge within the Tova Callender, the West Maui more resilient to the many threats interventions to ensure we are nearshore reef system, fueling Watershed and Coastal Manage- they face—and ensure their addressing the root causes of algal growth and contributing to ment Coordinator. “Since survival in a changing world. coral reef decline. Around the reef declines, so redirecting and CORAL has already built the world, wastewater pollution from recycling this water for landscap- needed relationships with the coastal communities is becom- ing is a common sense . visitor industry in West Maui, ing a common and substantial important stakeholders are problem for nearshore reefs. In Scientists, resource managers, already engaged and working to 2012, we launched new initiatives and many others in the commu- improve water quality, reducing with our hotel partners in Hawaii nity have been calling for the outreach, education, and and Mexico to explore previously increased reuse of wastewater project work we need to do.”

CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT - 07 Photo by: Gareth Williams by: Photo

A spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari) glides silently over a pristine reef in Palmyra. New Science An Initiative Supporting Conservation and Management

round the world, coral set of tools that will guide reef middle of the Pacific Ocean. to management and conserva- reefs are suffering managers as they evaluate Purchased by The Nature tion actions through partnerships from threats including difficult tradeoff decisions. Conservancy in 2000, Palmyra with local reef managers in the overfishing, pollution, Known as the Reefs Tomorrow and its surrounding waters are Pacific and beyond. ocean acidification, Initiative, this project will use permanently protected as a andA increasing . computer models and field National Wildlife Refuge. Its reefs “We tend to find the same With limited resources and studies to build a true scientific are considered to be some of the threats plaguing coral reefs in varying conditions from place to understanding of how reefs healthiest in the world, boasting each of our project sites, yet it place, how do we ensure we function, respond to combina- vast numbers of large fish and can be difficult to know how best are investing in conservation tions of threats, and rebound high coral cover in clear blue to address and prioritize these strategies that have the greatest from disturbances like coral water. By understanding how threats to maximize our benefit for reefs and are most bleaching events. these healthy ecosystems conservation impact,” says Dr. likely to succeed in the long term? withstand and recover from Michael Webster. “By developing We are starting this work in the disturbances, we can better empirical data at Palmyra that To help answer that question, remote and pristine coral reefs manage our interventions on better explains how reefs work CORAL is working with a group at Palmyra Atoll. Palmyra is part degraded reefs. and how threats interact in a of researchers from academic of the Northern Line Islands, management context, conserva- institutions and other conserva- located halfway between Hawaii CORAL looks forward to applying tion managers will be better tion organizations to develop a and American Samoa in the what we learn in Palmyra directly equipped with the tools and

CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT Photo by: Gareth Williams by: Photo

A spotted eagle ray (Aetobatus narinari) glides silently over a pristine reef in Palmyra. Colorful convict surgeonfish (Acanthurus triostegus) over Acropora corals in Palmyra’s clear, blue waters. New Science An Initiative Supporting Conservation and Management knowledge they need to be John Kaye, Program Officer of Introducing Madhavi directed interdisciplinary and successful in their roles.” the Marine Microbiology Initiative Dr. Madhavi Colton, scientifically rigorous programs at the Gordon and Betty Moore a trained ecologist monitoring California’s marine A $2.5 million grant from the Foundation, is looking forward to with a Ph.D. in protected areas, working closely Gordon and Betty Moore the outcomes. “With CORAL’s from with resource managers and Foundation established this leadership, the research team the University of policymakers to develop an partnership between CORAL and will attempt to fill a critical gap in Melbourne (Australia), recently understanding of how science an elite team of scientists and knowledge of coral reef science joined CORAL as program can be incorporated into conservation experts from the and its application to manage- director of the Reefs Tomorrow decision-making processes. American Museum of Natural ment and conservation,” he says. Initiative. In this new role, History, Stanford University, The “Ultimately, this understanding Madhavi is collaborating with a A self proclaimed “applied Nature Conservancy, the should inform science-driven team of top-notch research and ecologist,” Madhavi is drawn to University of California-San management and conservation environmental institutions (see roles that bridge the gap Diego’s Scripps Institution of of coral reef systems in many main story) and is tasked with between science, management, , the University of critical and threatened locations.” managing the project’s many and policy. She looks forward to California-Santa Barbara, the moving parts. Madhavi is no working with our partners to University of North Carolina- stranger to large scientific provide a science-based tool that Wilmington, and Victoria Univer- research projects. In her last conservationists and managers sity of Wellington (New Zealand). position, she developed and can use to save coral reefs.

CORAL REEF ALLIANCE 2012 ANNUAL REPORT NON-PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID REDWOOD CITY, CA PERMIT NO. 688

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“Rebranding CORAL is a tremendous opportunity to both reflect on our past and think Statement of Activities for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2012 We are proud to report a significant increase in our conservation We would also like to extend a special thank you to our partners, — Dr. Michael Webster, Executive Director of CORAL strategically about the direction in which we are heading.” investments during the last fiscal year (more than 36%), thanks in volunteers, photographers, and former staff and board for your time large part to increased support from thousands of donors, founda- and expertise over the last year. Your commitment is critical to our tions, corporations, and government agencies. We are truly grateful ability to unite communities to save coral reefs. From all of our staff for your partnership and are honored to recognize some of you on around the world: thank you, gracias, bula, mahalo, and terima kasih! the enclosed donor list.

Support and Revenue Expenses Foundation and Government Grants $1,641,770 Program Services $1,689,287 Individual Contributions $543,305 Management and General $201,832 Other Revenue $190,916 Fundraising $177,674

Total Support and Revenue $2,375,991 Total Expenses $2,068,793

8% 8% Other Revenue Fundraising 10% Management 23% and General Individual Contributions

69% 82% Foundation and Program Government Grants Services