Across the world, coral reefs are declining as a direct result of human interference. As the global climate continues to shift, these fragile, underwater habitats bear mass disturbances such as increased storms, mass bleaching events, and crown of thorn outbreaks. Unlike many reefs worldwide, coral reefs in Palau have been fortunate not to face any mass-disturbances from 1998 to 2012.

In a study published in the scientific journal, Proceedings of the Royal Society Biological Sciences, PICRC researcher Marine Gouezo and her colleagues from Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC), Southern Cross University, Australian Institute of Marine Science, James Cook University, and CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, were able to determine that it takes around 9 to 12 years for coral reefs to completely recover in the absence of large-scale disturbances
Understanding coral recovery has been a challenge due to insufficient long-term data and the frequency of disturbances. This study is one of few that have been able to track complete coral recovery expanding over 14 years free from any mass disturbance. read more

On February 15, 2019, Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) and Stanford Center for Ocean Solutions (COS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Palau National Government. This MOU states that PICRC and Stanford COS will partner with Palau’s leaders to support the successful implementation of the Palau National Marine Sanctuary (PNMS).

Honorable Minister F. Umiich Sengebau, PICRC CEO, Dr. Yimnang Golbuu, and Co-directors of Stanford COS, Dr. Fiorenza Micheli and James Leape all participated in the signing of the MOU. President Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. was also present during the ceremony. As part of the memorandum, PICRC and Stanford COS will develop policy options and analyses to inform and promote sustainable resource use and effective marine governance in the face of increasing pressures on marine ecosystems. The overall work from this partnership will provide Palau with coastal and pelagic policy management options that will support the ecological, social, and economic well being of Palauan’s in the near and long-term future. read more

One of the biggest issues facing Palau and the whole world is how to manage our  coasts and estuaries. Almost half of the world’s population lives along the coast. The challenge facing us is how to maintain and protect these critical ecosystems and their functions while at the same time, continue to utilize them for the benefit of people that depend on them.

For more than 10 years, Shimbros International has been a dedicated supporter of Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC). Still today, they continue to be one of PICRC’s most dedicated supporters. Over the years, Shimbros has printed numerous banners, donated to the Arts and Tides Calendar Contest, and have been significant supporters of PICRC’s annual Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Gala.

This year, just like previous years, Shimbros did not hold back in their support for PICRC, playing a large role in the success of the 18^th Anniversary held on Jan 17, 2019. During the dinner gala, Shimbros donated all the drinks that were served that evening.  In addition to the drinks, they also donated a large banner with the Anniversary theme, “Building a Strong Foundation for a Resilient Future”, and the backdrop for the Anniversary Gala picture booth. read more

On January 17, 2019, the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) held their 18^th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Gala. The successful, sold-out event was filled with partners, donors, and supporters of PICRC from all over Palau.

From fairy lights dangled from the ceiling to local palm leaves and flowers carpeting the building, parking lot at the Tommy E. Remengesau Jr. building was transformed into an elegant venue.

As guests entered the venue, they were entertained by brother and sister duo, Ngerchelei and Kendall Titiml, who sang a mix of classic Palauan songs and original pieces. The brother-sister duo put on an outstanding performance from when guests arrived until the very end of the night. Not only are these two very talented performers, they also presented themselves with class and had an exceptional stage presence that complemented the ambiance of the evening. read more