is the reef dead

At Lady Musgrave Experience, “Is the Reef Dead” is one of the most common questions we get asked. The simple answer to this question is no.

Although the reef is most certainly facing threats, it is a diverse and complex ecosystem, home to a vast array of marine life and some of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Although its natural beauty and wildlife are still very much present, there are signs of deterioration in some areas.

The Great Barrier Reef is about the size of Italy, Japan or the United Kingdom. Imagine that a large area of any one of these countries was affected by deforestation, or some other devastating environmental impact. It wouldn’t mean that there is no more forest in the whole country, or that the whole country collapses. If every forest in the whole nation were to disappear, however, there would be devastating impacts on its population – both human and otherwise.

There is no denying that coral cover on the Great Barrier Reef has declined in recent decades, however it is not dead. There are many areas on the reef that remain untouched by impacts such as bleaching, including vast expanses of reef at Lady Musgrave.

Although our reef remains vibrant and thriving, it is not entirely exempt from possible future impacts, and this is why we take every action possible to reduce, mitigate and educate to reduce threats and build reef resilience. Building reef resilience will increase the chances of Lady Musgrave Reef to bounce back from potential threats such as climate change, coral bleaching and outbreaks of the Crown of Thorns Starfish (Insert link to a Crown of Thorns Starfish Page).

We are in a position where we need to focus on building awareness about reef health and the actions that can be taken to increase its resilience, and we envision that every guest who comes on our tours leaves feeling inspired and empowered to make positive change for the future of the Great Barrier Reef, and all reefs worldwide.

Tourism operators – and you, our guests – are in a unique and important position to respond to the challenges the reef faces, and be drivers of positive change. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park is one of the best managed marine parks in the world, recognising that reef management is the responsibility of all.

As a High Standard Tourism Operator (link to “How we protect the Reef” page), we at Lady Musgrave Experience work with the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority by contributing data and observations of reef health. Every reef visitor makes an Environmental Management (EMC) contribution, which goes directly towards the management activities of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

By choosing to experience the Great Barrier Reef with a responsible tourism operator, you can ensure that your trip to the reef will leave the wonderful place you’re visiting even better than you found it.

You can really make an impact by:

• Joining our Marine Biologist for a Day Experience (link to page)
• Being a Responsible Reef Visitor
• Following the crew’s instructions regarding “do’s and don’ts”