Coral Restoration at Lighthouse Reef Atoll

The Reef Healers Program, led by Reef Healers as primary and assistant Program

Directors, in partnership with Lr³, is a three-year initiative designed to restore degraded

coral reef habitats around Long Caye at Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Belize. Coral

ecosystems in this region face growing threats from climate change, bleaching events,

storm damage, and localized human pressures. These reefs provide essential

ecosystem services, including coastal protection, fisheries, tourism, and biodiversity, yet

are increasingly degraded.

The program focuses on identifying priority restoration sites, securing permits,

establishing a field station, deploying remote monitoring systems, and propagating

resilient corals. Lr³ provides marine technicians, safety oversight, and dive support,

working closely with Long Caye Dive Services and Elvis Solis.

Restoration is expected to occur in the shallow patch reefs on the southwest side of

Long Caye, though final sites will be determined during initial surveys. Collaboration

with the Audubon Society ensures alignment with reef regulations and protection

policies. Reef Healers and Lr³ will partner with a university for scientific collaboration

and an outside consulting partner experienced in comparable global coral restoration

programs.

Long Caye spans approximately 2.25 miles in length and 0.75 miles in width, providing

an ideal laboratory for reef restoration while maintaining minimal human interference.

Lr³ is committed to long-term stewardship, ensuring the reef’s protection and

sustainable management for future generations.