The Government of Dominica‘s support has been identified as a key factor in the continued success of coral restoration efforts within the Soufriere Scotts Head Marine Reserve (SSMR), according to Simon Walsh, Director of Coral Conservation at Ocean Forward.
Speaking during SSMR Day celebrations in Soufrière, Walsh praised the Fisheries Division for its consistent support of coral restoration initiatives, describing the partnership as essential to preserving Dominica’s marine ecosystems.
Walsh explained that while coral restoration projects in some countries have faced delays or restrictions, the collaborative approach adopted in Dominica has allowed conservation work to progress more efficiently.
“Government support has been really crucial. The Fisheries Division has always been a very enthusiastic supporter of what we’re doing. They understand the reasons for it, they understand that we’re passionate about this, and they allow us to proceed with the project,” he said.
He emphasized that the initiative is entirely focused on protecting Dominica’s marine environment rather than generating commercial profit.
“We’re trying to do this for Dominica. We’re not selling anything, we’re not making money on this project. It is purely to save Dominica’s reefs and corals,” Walsh stated.
Walsh also highlighted the need for greater public education, particularly among fishing villages, to increase understanding of the relationship between healthy coral reefs and sustainable fisheries.
He explained that thriving coral ecosystems provide habitat for numerous fish species and ultimately benefit fishers by supporting healthier fish populations.
“Without coral you won’t have any red fish left. If you create a healthy environment then there’s more fish, and the fishermen benefit. So it’s all positive,” he said.
With the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season now underway, Ocean Forward has also developed contingency measures to protect its coral nurseries. Walsh said specialized tanks can be sealed to prevent freshwater contamination during storms, while backup generators have been installed to maintain essential water circulation systems if electricity is interrupted.
He acknowledged that an extreme event similar to Hurricane Maria would present significant challenges but noted that Ocean Forward has already invested in resilient infrastructure at Rosalie, including hurricane-resistant buildings designed to withstand winds exceeding 200 miles per hour. The facilities also support sustainable fundraising initiatives connected to coral and sea turtle conservation.
Walsh said the success of the coral restoration programme demonstrates what can be achieved through cooperation between government agencies, conservation organizations and local communities. He expressed hope that continued collaboration, education and scientific research will help safeguard Dominica’s coral reefs and the livelihoods that depend on them for generations to come.
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