| Description |
The overarching goal of research conducted for this project is to provide scientific understanding of the natural physical processes and anthropogenic impacts that critically influence the development and sustainability of U.S. coral reefs. This goal is achieved through field, laboratory, and modeling studies involving USGS staff, partners, and stakeholders in many diverse disciplines. Our results are made available to partners and resource mangers through peer-reviewed publications, USGS reports, briefings, presentations, and web sites.Research studies are conducted through four linked and overlapping Tasks:TASK 1. Sediment Dynamics and Circulation on ReefsTASK 2. Submarine Groundwater Discharge to ReefsTASK 3. Rapid Sea-Level Rise and Reef ResponseTASK 4. Resilience and Recovery: Science for Future Reefs These research studies will lead to understanding of the highly complex nature of flow and particle retention on coral reefs, the first step in predicting the fate on reefs of fine-grained sediment and nutrients, contaminants, and larvae. Such information is essential for effective management of coral reef resources. Complementary research will characterize the relationship between precipitation, recharge, storage, and discharge of submarine groundwater (SGD) through the coastal zone and develop metrics of coral reef response to variations in SGD with climate change and land use. This information will help guide management of coastal water supplies, aquifers, and critical marine resources that sustain ecologic, cultural and economic functions for human livelihood. Research will also address how reefs will respond to rapid sea-level rise at a decadal time-scale, and how increased wave energy and altered circulation across the reef flat will affect sediment transport. Lastly, this research will identify the key factors that determine a coral reef’s ability to withstand multiple stresses and recover from periodic disturbances, and to provide GIS-based maps of the reefs in Hawaii critical for protection. |
| Keywords |
coral reefs, sedimentation, coral health, sea-level rise, sediment dynamics, groundwater discharge, turbidity, erosion, coastal circulation, late Holocene |
