Describes use of cellular automata model as part of a damage assessment process to forecast seagrass recovery rates in areas of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary affected by vessel groundings. Notes field validation of the forecasts was done by comparing model-predicted recovery to that observed to be occurring naturally for 30 documented vessel grounding sites. Preliminary findings indicate that the recovery model is generous to Responsible Parties, since the model forecasts a faster recovery than was observed to occur naturally. Report also notes that an examination of the relationship between select environmental factors and injury recovery dynamics is also underway.

This Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) systematically evaluates the short and long-term environmental and socioeconomic effects related to the implementation of seagrass restoration and seagrass injury prevention projects in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS). The goal of this PEIS is to describe a range of seagrass restoration techniques, used for both primary and compensatory restoration projects and seagrass injury prevention actions that potentially may be implemented in the FKNMS. The types of seagrass restoration and injury prevention projects proposed in this plan will be implemented with funds collected through natural resource damage assessment (NRDA) settlements for injuries to seagrasses within the FKNMS. The anticipated beneficial and adverse environmental and socioeconomic impacts of each restoration technique are discussed in detail.

"This document presents the results of the monitoring of a repaired seagrass area injured by the N-Control vessel grounding incident of May 29, 2001. This grounding occurred in State of Florida waters within the boundaries of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS) and impacted a total of 96.87 m2 of seagrass habitat, predominantly Turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum)"--Abstract.

" this book is the first to describe, in detail, the art and science of coral reef restoration. It is to be hoped that the information that can be gleaned within the pages of this book will set a path towards continued preservation of this valuable underwater treasure to be used, appreciated, and experienced for future generations." -- Senator

Explores emerging monitoring strategies and presents adaptive management techniques to anticipate and mitigate coral bleaching, with emphasis upon identification and promotion of resilience in coral reef ecosystems. Includes coverage of strategic use of marine protected areas.

This two-volume handbook is a comprehensive account of the rapidly emerging and vibrant science of the ecological restoration of habitats and species. Ecological restoration aims to achieve complete structural, functional, self-maintaining biological integrity following disturbance. In practice, any theoretical model is modified by a number of economic, social, and ecological constraints. Consequently, material that might be considered as rehabilitation, enhancement, re-construction, or re-creation is also included. Principles of Restoration defines the underlying principles of restoration ecology in relation to manipulations and management of the biological, geophysical, and chemical framework.

There are many things and services in our everyday life that we take for granted, and telecommunications is one of them. We surf the internet, send emails to friends and colleagues abroad, talk to family members in foreign countries over the phone, book airline seats and make banking transactions without actually realizing and appreciating the sophisticated technology that enables us to do so. This report covers the history and nature of cables, their special status in international law, their interaction with the environment and other ocean users and, finally, the challenges of the future. It is an evidence-based synopsis that aims to improve the quality and availability of information to enhance understanding and cooperation between all stakeholders. UNEP-WCMC in collaboration with the International Cable Protection Committee and UNEP has prepared this new report to provide an objective, factual description of the sub-marine cable industry and the interaction of submarine telecommunications (which route 95% of all international communications traffic) with the marine environment. This important report seeks to focus and guide deliberations and decision making on the wise conservation and protection of the oceans in concert with their sustainable management and use.