Broadreach: Programs at Sea - Caribbean Marine Reserves

On dives in St. Barts, at artificial reefs off Statia or at a Marine Park in Saba, you’ll witness the challenges and potential impact of marine conservation.  

Ocean ecosystems are wondrous but fragile environments that are becoming increasingly threatened as a result of anthropogenic actions such as overfishing, coastal development, pollution and climate change. Marine reserves present a powerful tool to help combat some of these problems but they are not without controversy. This course examines the interdisciplinary field of ocean conservation and looks at the science behind marine reserves, as well as the real-world challenges that ocean scientists face when interacting within the related disciplines of ocean law, economics, policy, history and culture, ecosystem management and international relations. You'll gain valuable experience in reef surveying techniques and learn daily water measurement techniques as you work with research scientists and marine park staff in Saba, St. Eustatius and St. Bart’s to investigate the diverse challenges and various methods used to help conserve delicate marine environments.