Seminar Series 2004

The Relation Between Development and Sediment Deposition from Stormwater Runoff on Coral Reefs in Moorea, French Polynesia

SHAY BOUTILLIER (UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY)

Coral Reefs are often referred to as the “rain forests of the ocean” because of their phenomenal biodiversity and productivity. However, they can only tolerate a narrow range of environmental conditions and are thus very sensitive to environmental changes (ICRIN, 2003). Sediment exposed from changing land-uses, mobilized in stormwater runoff and delivered to ocean via freshwater outflows can be one of the most significant negative impacts to coral reefs, resulting in various lethal and sub-lethal effects (Burke et al., 2002; Nowlis et. al., 1997; Rogers, 1990). Land management and zoning regulations are necessary for sediment control, but are not sufficient by themselves. They must also be coupled with site-specific implementations of best management practices (BMP’s) to ensure disturbed sediment remains on site. The steep tropical volcanic island of Moorea, French Polynesia is located 11 miles from the neighboring island of Tahiti and sprawling capital city, Papeete. Due to the proximity of Papeete, exurban growth pressure drive development on the island of Moorea. In my thesis, I assess what aspects of development are increasing sediment transported in stormwater runoff, how zoning regulations affect these aspects, and what can be done to mitigate the impacts to coral reefs on the Island of Moorea, French Polynesia.