REEFDO.org

The Purpose: The strategic plan embodies seven guiding principles or purposes. 1. To optimize the biological and economic benefits of artificial reefs to ensure that the marine environment, human health and marine organisms are protected, restored, enhanced or sustained, 2. To provide educational programs based upon the best available scientific and experiential information, and best management practices for artificial reef development, 3. To create employment and career development opportunities for the local and regional communities, 4. To support data collection, the use of innovative technology, and evaluation to adjust management approaches for accomplishing the objectives of REEFDO programs, 5. To support the pursuit of adequate funding to accomplish the ongoing objectives of REEFDO programs, 6. To provide future direction for the development of local, regional and national artificial reef guidelines and other related rules and policies, 7. To provide a framework for public education and outreach about REEFDO programs. REEFDO has established alliances with several private, public and long-standing international organizations with extensive experience in all areas of marine biology and artificial reef development including: PADI, The Ocean Futures Society, WiserEarth and others. The REEFDO business model is to establish local and regional programs through site development and training with the intention to transition the ownership and management to the local communities.