Hope Beneath the Waves: The Catuano Coral Restoration Project in Bayahibe and Saona

Coral reefs are the rainforests of the seas – yet they are more threatened than ever. In the Dominican Republic, off the coasts of Bayahibe and Saona Island, committed environmentalists are making a powerful statement: the Catuano Coral Restoration Project.

A fascinating example of how sustainable tourism, environmental protection, and community work can go hand in hand.

Why Are Coral Reefs So Important?

Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but host about 25% of all known marine species. They provide coastal protection, serve as vital nurseries for fish, and support the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide.

Yet climate change, pollution, and uncontrolled tourism threaten their very existence.

The Birth of the Catuano Project

In 2017, the local ecotourism company SeavisTours founded the Catuano Coral Restoration Project. The goal: to rebuild the heavily damaged reefs on the western coast of Saona Island, in the Catuano area.

In collaboration with the environmental organization FUNDEMAR, six coral gardens were created – floating structures where coral fragments are grown and later transplanted to damaged reefs, creating new, vibrant ecosystems.

How Coral Restoration Works

• Coral fragments are fixed to underwater structures, where they grow under optimal conditions.

• Once large and healthy enough, they are transplanted by divers onto damaged reefs.

• The replanting stabilizes the reef system, increases biodiversity, and improves water quality.

The project combines cutting-edge techniques with the traditional knowledge of local fishermen and divers.

This documentary focuses on the coral restoration efforts in the Dominican Republic. The coral restoration organizations Fundemar (based in Bayahibe /DR) and Secore International (based in the US) have joint forces to give the coral reef of the Caribbean a future!

Community and Education as Key Elements

What makes the Catuano Project special is the active involvement of the local community and tourists:

• Workshops and information centers raise awareness about the importance of coral reefs.

• Tourists can participate in ecotours and contribute directly to the restoration efforts.

• Volunteers help maintain the coral gardens and gain valuable experience in marine conservation.

Why This Project Brings Hope

At a time when many environmental efforts are progressing slowly, the Catuano Project shows that local engagement can have a major impact. It stands as a model for other coastal regions and proves that sustainable tourism can not only generate income but also preserve our natural treasures.

Bayahibe and Saona are not just beautiful beach destinations – they demonstrate how responsible tourism can help save our future.

The People Behind the Success: Rita Sellares and Dr. Dirk Petersen

No sustainable environmental project would be possible without dedicated individuals. Two names stand out in the success of coral restoration in Bayahibe and Saona:

Rita Sellares – Executive Director of FUNDEMAR

As Director of the Fundación Dominicana de Estudios Marinos (FUNDEMAR), Rita Sellares coordinates numerous environmental and restoration projects in the Bayahibe region. With her team, she leads programs for coral nurseries, reef restoration, and environmental education. Her vision: a harmonious future where conservation and sustainable tourism work together.

Dr. Dirk Petersen – Founder and Executive Director of SECORE International

Dr. Dirk Petersen, a renowned marine biologist and founder of SECORE International, is known worldwide for his pioneering work in sexual coral restoration. He developed techniques that grow corals from natural larvae – a huge leap forward for reef biodiversity. SECORE works closely with FUNDEMAR and local partners like the Catuano Project to implement these innovative methods.

Conclusion

Thanks to the commitment of organizations like FUNDEMAR and SECORE, and individuals like Rita Sellares and Dr. Dirk Petersen, not only are new coral reefs being created – but also new hopes for the future of our oceans.

Bayahibe and Saona today are shining examples that conservation, community, and sustainable tourism can be a powerful combination.

Sources: Information compiled from Fundación Dominicana de Estudios Marinos (FUNDEMAR), SECORE International, SeavisTours Bayahibe, Reef Patrol, and related marine conservation efforts. Special acknowledgment to Rita Sellares (Executive Director of FUNDEMAR) and Dr. Dirk Petersen (Founder and Executive Director of SECORE International) for their invaluable work in coral reef restoration in the Dominican Republic. Link

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