Equip rangers to save coral reefs in Micronesia

On October 28th, 2021, a two-day compliance and surveillance training of trainers was held in Pohnpei (Federated States of Micronesia).  It was led by Pohnpei State Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW). DFW, in partnership with OneReef partner, the Conservation Society of Pohnpei (CSP), and two other organizations. It was attended by key Community Conservation Officers (CCO) and Police Officers from five municipalities that have active Marine Protected Areas.

During the training, the CCOs and municipal Police officers had the chance to familiarize themselves with the basics of Pohnpei’s code with regards to Marine Sanctuary and Wildlife Refuge System. The training also
included basic exercises where DFW designed scenarios for CCOs to practice. Simple reporting forms were designed by DFW for all CCOs to follow when reporting incidents. Many of the participating CCOs are from OneReef partner communities.  They can now go back to their respective communities and train their fellow community officers and further enhance communication between surveillance peers. This training will also help the CCOs better utilize the equipment OneReef has provided them with donations from people like you. Thank you for your support!

Training initiatives like this help build a stronger surveillance alliance to reduce the growing Illegal, Unreported and
Unregulated (IUU) fishing in Pohnpei’s coastal waters.

In addition to the basic equipment you have helped us provide to our partner communities, we are still raising funds for supplemental equipment that will help the CCOs protect their Marine Protected Area in a safe and effective manner. Thank you for your continued support!

Links:

• Home Page
• Pohnpei communities, Micronesia
• Read about the OneReef Solution to Saving Coral Reefs