Research
Oaxaca, Mexico
The Location
Bahías de Huatulco National Park, located in Oaxaca, Mexico, has a unique design of being comprised of nine bays with varying levels of tourism and development. The park contains some of the most important coral reef ecosystems in the region, which are critical to both biodiversity and the local economy. The livelihoods of local communities, who depend on these ecosystems are intrinsically linked to the health of the coral reefs.
The Problem
The coral reefs are facing mounting pressures from human activities such as tourism, fishing, and coastal development, as well as environmental threats like the 2023 El Niño bleaching event, which caused widespread coral death and further threatens their survival.
The Research
We will study how the reefs in Huatulco are recovering from the El Nino event and understand how human activities affect that ability to thrive. Over two years, we will work with local universities and conservation groups to monitor the reefs, analyze water quality, and study the relationships between corals and the algae they depend on.
The Communtiy
We will collaborate with the local community through stakeholder seminars, by creating outreach materials for tourists, working with the National Park to develop an Integrative Management Plan, and continuing the research through a citizen science monitoring program
The Outcome
This study will provide essential data to guide the creation of informed, sustainable policies that balance the needs of conservation with the economic demands of eco-tourism and local communities.
