Ecological Monitoring Program

The Ecological Monitoring Program (EMP) is an introduction to coral reef ecology for divers interested in learning how to view the reef scientifically. The course first teaches students how recognize key biotic and abiotic reef components and reef survey techniques. Students will then do a series of dive safaris to identify the indicator species and then later conduct dive surveys collecting ‘Live’ data that will be recorded into the database. This course certifies them to conduct their own surveys and report data back to the online database. Parameters assessed include fish and invertebrate abundance and biodiversity, substrate cover, coral taxonomy, coral diseases, coral bleaching, and more. This course is a prerequisite for many of the other courses offered by Conservation Diver.