For a fourth consecutive year, the Bermuda Zoological Society [BZS] is heading out on the water with its team of citizen scientists to survey coral reefs around the island as a part of the annual BZS REEF Watch, with the excursion taking place with the support of lead sponsor HISCOX.

The event, which is also supported by Groundswell, contributes to the ongoing research of Bermuda Reef Ecosystem Analysis and Monitoring [BREAM], under the direction of Dr. Thaddeus Murdoch.

“REEF Watch is a fun and interesting programme with real-world implications,” said Dr. Murdoch.

“Bermuda relies on an ecologically healthy and resilient reef for its economic, social and ecological well-being. It is vital that Bermuda’s fishes and marine habitats are continually monitored for ecological health.”

“It is also of extreme importance that we make Bermudians aware of both the vitality of Bermuda’s reef system, and its extreme fragility.

“The best way to do so is to empower Bermudians to be able to accurately assess the condition of coral reefs and fishes themselves, so they are no longer solely reliant upon research scientists nor the government to provide the reef health information that so directly affects all of our lives.”

“Bermuda’s coral reefs are the very reason for our island’s existence,” said Jeremy Pinchin, CEO of HISCOX.

“Our protection of them remains vital today given the protection they provide to the island and the economic benefits the island derives from them. They will provide a glorious backdrop when the island is on show to the world during the America’s Cup.

“We hope everyone privileged to live in Bermuda can join us, in any way they can, to help protect this wonderful asset. HISCOX is delighted to support the REEF Watch project. I’d urge as many people as possible to sign up as citizen scientists, and make a contribution towards protecting the future of our reef.”

A spokesperson said, “This year the event will take place over a two day period, giving participants the option to choose their preferred date, or to partake in a two day adventure on the water.

“REEF Watch participants have a unique opportunity to enjoy a little bit of good-hearted competition, whilst also making a lasting contribution to ongoing research into Bermuda’s coral reefs.

“Although Bermuda currently has some of the healthiest reefs in the world, ongoing monitoring allows scientists to readily monitor and protect hundreds of square miles of reef to ensure that they can continue to be conserved for future generations.”

“Each registered team is encouraged to raise at least $500 for reef conservation. At the end of the second day the teams with the most funds raised are awarded great prizes for their efforts at a BBQ held on the grounds of the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo for all the participants.”

“Over the past 3 years REEF Watch has raised over $60,000 for the research and conservation of Bermuda’s reefs.”

“This year, the event is scheduled for Saturday, 24 September and/or Sunday, 25 September and we hope to have a record number of teams signing up to participate this year.

“Each team of four will be assigned two reefs and will be provided with the necessary training to successfully conduct a survey on the health of those reefs. Teams must provide their own water transport out to the reefs and are also asked to try and raise at least $500. All proceeds raised will go towards reef conservation.”

“Without question, those participating in BZS REEF Watch are sure to have a GREAT time. Those interested in creating or joining a team are encourage to visit here, or for more information, contact development.bzs@gov.bm.

“Training nights are scheduled for Monday, 19 September and Tuesday, 20 September. A training video is also available online as a refresher for past participants.”

A full copy of the 2014 BZS REEF Watch Report, which includes results from last year’s event, can be downloaded from here.