Coral reef mitigation and restoration techniques employed in the Pacific islands. I. Overview

In the past two decades numerous reef mitigation and restoration projects have been undertaken throughout the world. This article summarizes the authors' experience with a wide range of projects in Hawaii and the U.S.-affiliated Pacific islands. The terms "mitigation" and "restoration" are often taken to mean reef repair, coral transplantation or construction of additional habitat (e.g. artificial reefs). However, other options are available and should be considered. In some situations removal of the anthropogenic factor causing the damage while allowing natural processes of recovery to occur is the best approach. Natural rates of reef recovery can be very rapid in such situations and direct human intervention on the reefs is unnecessary. In some instances a negotiated environmental settlement or financial penalties can be used to establish trust funds to offset environmental losses. Review of past attempts to mitigate reef damage and restore reefs suggests that managers must have a broad strategic plan and incorporate a wide range of approaches designed to fit each situation on a case by case basis. Although protection of the reefs must always be the top priority, there will inevitably be situations where damage will occur. In these situations restoration and mitigation measures will have to be considered.