How Can I Help the Coral Reefs?

- Use the suggestions already outlined in How Can I Help the Oceans?
- Do not buy the marine life - alive or dead unless you know where it came from. For example: live propagated corals are fine to buy for a home aquarium.
If You Have a Boat:
- Please do not dump your garbage into the ocean , especially monofilament lines, six-pack ring holders, and plastic bags (besides, it's illegal).
- Recycle your trash.
- Stay away from shallow areas. If your boat becomes grounded, it can damage the reef. (Check tide charts).
- Do not collect or harass fish and other animals that make the reef their home. Avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Try to drop anchor in areas that are not over corals or seagrasses. If there are reef mooring buoys, use them.
- Your local Coast Guard offers classes in boating safety. Good and responsible seamanship is strongly recommended.
- If you are fishing, be sure to follow size and catch limits.
If You are Snorkeling or Diving:
- Again, do not collect or harass reef animals, including corals.
- Do not touch the polyps.
- Don't feed the fish.
- Do not allow your equipment to drag across the reef.
- Divers should practice neutral buoyancy to avoid contact with the corals. Snorkelers can wear float coats to achieve the same goal.
- Don't go out on the reef if the water is rough. It is much more likely that stronger currents, winds, etc. will result in contact with the fragile polyps.
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