From June 17 to 20, CTC had the pleasure of welcoming Shannon Rake, the Mission Blue Hope Spots Manager, for an insightful field visit to the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area (MPA). The visit aimed to showcase collaborative conservation efforts, particularly in MPA management and coral restoration, implemented by CTC and the Hope Spots Mission Blue program in Nusa Penida MPA.

Hope Spots are special places that are scientifically identified as critical to the health of the ocean by Mission Blue. Nusa Penida MPA has been declared as a HOPE SPOT in 2020. This area is home to nearly 300 species of coral and more than 500 species of reef fish, a few being new discoveries to science. Based on a Marine Megafauna Foundation study, two species of manta, the oceanic manta (Mobula birostris) and reef manta (Mobula alfredi) are found within the Nusa Penida MPA. These species are currently listed as vulnerable to extinction on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List of Endangered Species. 

Moreover, Nusa Penida is rooted in its people. Local residents actively participated in the planning of the MPA, they champion reef and mangrove restoration programs and assist  with park management. The majority of residents around the Nusa Penida MPA are Balinese, who traditionally uphold strong cultural practices, many of which honor the ocean and the immense life it provides.

During the four-day visit, Shannon Rake engaged in a series of activities that highlighted the impact of the Hope Spots Mission Blue program in Nusa Penida MPA. The activities included coral restoration maintenance on June 17 at CTC Coral Restoration Demonstration site close to Quick Silver pontoon. She actively participated in ensuring the health and growth of coral structures. This hands-on experience provided valuable insights into the successful MARRS method of coral restoration. On that day, Shannon also had the opportunity to visit Ped Temple to learn how Balinese culture relates to conservation in Nusa Penida.

On the 2nd day, June 18, Shannon embarked on a visit to Nusa Lembongan with Surya Mandiri who offer unique canoe tours through local mangrove forests. The tour includes planting new mangroves to support coastal protection and biodiversity. After the tour, she had discussions with I Wayan Sukitra, the leader of Surya Mandiri, about the challenges of managing mangrove areas. There, she also joined the CTC team in maintaining coral restoration through adopting a coral. Additionally, she visited other communities such as Satya Pesona Nusa to observe seaweed farming and Sandu Care to learn about making sustainable products for the benefit of the local seaweed farmers. She immersed herself in the local culture and learned about the conservation efforts driven by the community.

On the last two-day, Shannon had the opportunity to observe the vibrant marine life at Manta Point and Crystal Bay where she was amazed to observe ten mantas during the dive. She noted, “the success of the MARRS method being implemented by CTC,  has significantly contributed to the revival of coral reefs in the region”. 

Through the support of the Mission Blue HOPE SPOT program, CTC, together with partners, has implemented various activities to anticipate and mitigate threats within the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area (MPA). These efforts include conducting regular surveillance activities, implementing codes of conduct related to marine tourism, promoting effective MPA management practices, and empowering local communities in surveillance, awareness campaigns, livelihood initiatives, and plastic waste management. Additionally, collaborative coral restoration efforts have identified restoration areas and involve partners in active coral restoration activities. These collaborative efforts aim to safeguard the biodiversity and sustainability of Nusa Penida’s marine ecosystem, ensuring its resilience against ongoing environmental challenges. 

Writer: Adam Putra, Evi Ihsan
Photos: Marthen Welly/CTC, Evi Ihsan/CTC