Caribbean Coral Reef Research Institute Inauguration

by Moisés Orengo-Avilés

Last September three coral reef research institutes were funded by NOAA: one in Hawaii, one in Florida and this one in Puerto Rico. The Caribbean Coral Reef Research Institute’s mission is to conduct biological and social research on Puerto Rico's coral reef resources. This interdisciplinary approach presented by the Institute to support coral reef conservation efforts is an outstanding and unique one.

The effective collaboration of the Institute with Puerto Rico’s Department of Natural and Environmental Resources will guarantee the promising results of this endeavor. Researchers from Marine and Social Sciences will provide the leadership to engage the top investigators in the field to contribute to the preservation and management of coral reefs.

Today we make a historical statement that sent a strong message to conserve our natural resources and to enhance mitigation initiatives. With the establishment of this Research Institute our University is at the forefront of an important area for the Caribbean. Studying, preserving and mitigating damages to our coral reefs will be of outmost significance to the future of marine habitats and the protection of the environment.

This award reflects NOAA’s strong support for coral reef conservation efforts and recognizes the Department of Marine Sciences and the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources leadership in this strategic area.

Congratulations to all the people who made this initiative possible and I look forward to our outstanding success.

Thank you.