Gardening under the sea? Yes, Akumal has an underwater garden just outside the bay and a wonderful team that tends it – Expedition Akumal. We all realize there is some coral death in the bay, but a group of highly trained underwater coral specialists are doing a great job propagating coral. These local diving celebrities donate their time to help make this project a reality. Their Facebook page – Expedition Akumal – and newsletter will keep you up to date on the coral restoration success in Akumal Bay. This is REALLY-Good to KNOW!! See previous editions of AkumalNow for more information.
Expedition Akumal is a charitable organization that represents a partnership between the Centro Ecologico Akumal (CEA) and local Akumal businesses to create an infrastructure that will restore healthy coral growth and protect the Mesoamerican coastal reef ecosystems in Akumal, Mexico. Known as the Akumal Coral Reef Restoration Project, the project works through a five pronged approach:
• Developing healthy coral reef regrowth in areas that have sustained significant damage.
• Limiting the impact of the invasive lionfish specie that is threatening reef biodiversity.
• Creating a strong positive reputation within the community that promotes participation and support.
• Promoting awareness about Mesoamerican Reef ecology while informing and entertaining tourists.
• Generating unique eco-tourism and events that involve and engage local businesses and residents.
We are devoted to protecting the reef ecosystem to ensure that it lives for future generations to experience and enjoy.
∗ Sign up for the Expedition Akumal newsletter to keep on top of the progress of the garden: http://reef4akumal.org/contact-us/
Leave a Reply