GIS Modeling and Mitigation of Coral Reef Damage

The objective of this study is to demonstrate that an efficient instrument for conducting surveys and inventories of coral reefs to assess those ecosystems at higher risk and develop mitigation strategies is through the use of a Geographic Information System (GIS). Efficient monitoring requires the assessment of various coastal data baselines and the evaluation of subsequent alterations in spatial patterns. While monitoring involves real-time components, among the most powerful tools of a GIS are its modeling capabilities, which allow simulation of various climate change scenarios. Relevant aspects include changes in coastal land use, wetlands, and shoreline configuration. Using Caribbean coral reef examples, the results of this research reveal that GIS techniques and applications play an integral role in defending coral reefs from climate change and other threats. Planners and politicians require the ability to analyze risks, assess impacts, and consider alternatives based on input from researchers across diverse disciplines. GIS provides the collective tool that integrates multifaceted data and transforms it into a meaningful medium for informed decision-making