Carolina Coral Crusade 2025

Our primary goal is to increase the health and biodiversity of coral reefs by transplanting and rescuing Oculina robusta, the only hard coral native to the Carolinas, while expanding efforts to include other hard and soft corals over time.

This involves relocating at-risk corals to carefully selected sites and rescuing those broken off by storms, anchors, fishing, and diving activities. By focusing on these rescue operations and detailed mapping of potential transplant locations, we aim to create robust, thriving ecosystems that promote coral growth and survival.

To further enhance coral habitats, we are addressing the critical loss of sea urchins, essential allies in controlling algae growth that can overwhelm reefs. Using innovative Bioball streamers in our nurseries, we nurture and protect baby sea urchins, increasing their numbers and restoring their natural role in maintaining balanced ecosystems. Together, these efforts ensure a healthier future for the coral reefs of the Carolinas.

Central to our mission is the involvement of the local community. We will host workshops and training sessions to educate volunteers on coral preservation techniques and the importance of reef ecosystems. By fostering a sense of stewardship and providing hands-on opportunities for community members, we aim to build a dedicated network of reef guardians committed to the long-term health of our marine environments.

With the ongoing warming of the ocean, we will investigate the feasibility of assisting the migration of southern corals northward. This research will explore the potential for introducing resilient coral species to the Carolinas to enhance reef ecosystems' adaptability to climate change. We will collaborate with NOAA, universities, other reef restoration groups, and expert organizations to study environmental impacts, growth patterns, and survival rates. Our goal is to develop strategies for sustainable coral migration and conservation in the face of global warming, leveraging the expertise and resources of our partners.

If you're passionate about making a difference, join our team and become part of the Carolina Reef Foundation family. We're always looking for dedicated individuals to help us achieve our goals.

Issue: Coral reefs worldwide, including those in the Carolinas, face unprecedented threats. Natural events like storms break off coral branches. While human activities—anchoring, fishing, and diving—cause physical damage.

Solution: The project focuses on rescuing and transplanting Oculina Robusta, the Carolinas’ only native hard coral. By enhancing and restoring damaged reef areas, we mitigate habitat loss and promote coral resilience. 

Issue:  Sea urchins are vital to coral reef health, as they control algae growth that can overtake and damage corals. Unfortunately, sea urchin populations have been severely impacted by disease, habitat degradation, and environmental changes, leaving coral reefs vulnerable to algal overgrowth and ecosystem imbalance. 

·Solution:  CRF is addressing this critical issue by utilizing innovative Bioball streamers in our nurseries. These streamers provide an ideal environment for nurturing and protecting baby sea urchins, encouraging larval settlement and growth. By increasing sea urchin numbers, we help restore their natural role in maintaining healthy coral reefs, fostering balanced ecosystems, and promoting coral regeneration in the Carolinas. 

Issue: Rising sea temperatures due to climate change led to coral bleaching, where corals expel symbiotic algae, making them vulnerable to disease and death.

·Solution: The Carolina Coral Crusade 2025 explores assisted migration of resilient southern coral species to the Carolinas. Collaborating with NOAA and universities, we develop strategies to enhance coral adaptability to changing climate conditions.

Issue: Coral reefs support local economies through tourism, fishing, and diving. Their decline threatens these industries.

Solution: By preserving healthy reefs, we ensure sustainable fishing grounds and vibrant diving experiences. Coastal communities benefit economically from thriving marine ecosystems. 

Issue: Pollution harms coral reef health. Debris, chemical runoff, and pollutants smother corals, reduce water quality, and hinder growth and reproduction.

Solution: Our comprehensive reef cleanup operations remove debris and pollutants, creating clean environments that support coral health and resilience 

Issue: Coral decline directly impacts marine biodiversity. Healthy reefs provide essential habitat for diverse marine species.

Solution: Through transplanting and rescue operations, the Carolina Coral Crusade 2025 sustains diverse marine communities by enhancing stable and healthy reef environments.

Join us in making a difference. Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or simply learn more, there are many ways to get involved and support our work.