When CORAL actively engages in an area, we first determine site-specific cultural, economic, and conservation needs and then begin a dedicated commitment to the location. Initial investigations into potential CRSD locations inform our strategies for engagement and conservation. We work with the local and international leadership to assess whether a site is a good candidate for CORAL support. 

Evaluation Criteria Snapshot
  • High biodiversity of coral reef area
  • Types of threats to reef
  • Presence of active marine tourism operations
  • Presence of or potential for Marine Protected Area
  • Political and cultural stability
  • Potential for sustainable financing opportunities
  • Presence of potential conservation partner organizations

CORAL currently operates conservation programs at seven project sites: Mexico, Belize, Honduras, Hawaii, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia. Coral Reefs Forever: The 5-Year Program to Save Coral Reefs (PDF) will expand our project sites from seven to seventeen. Learn more about our target areas and their unique potential in Where We Work.