What does AGRA mean in OCEAN SCIENCE

What is AGRA?

AGRA stands for Atlantic and Gulf Reef Assessment — a comprehensive evaluation of coral reef health in the Atlantic Ocean from North Carolina all the way down to Florida's Gulf Coast as well as in the Gulf of Mexico from Texas to western Florida. Scientists participating in AGRA are focused on collecting data on reef condition (e.g., bleaching), health indicators such as species diversity, water quality measurements and habitat mapping along with observational surveys to better understand any potential impacts human activity has had on these vulnerable ecosystems. Additionally, AGRA scientists are conducting research into methods that could be used to restore deteriorated coral reef habitats across both regions. AGRA's Impact: AGRA is critically important to understanding how best we can protect our nation's coral reef system, especially considering that this unique ecosystem helps provide habitat for many species which are both commercial and recreational fisheries. Moreover, coral reefs also provide protection from natural disasters such as hurricanes by dissipating wave energy before it reaches shorelines thus limiting coastal flooding and erosion. Determining how humans are impacting our ocean life is essential if we are going to develop plans of action that maintain our aquatic environment while allowing us to reap its benefits without causing further harm. Thanks to programs like AGRA we can make smarter choices when it comes preserving our planet's precious aquatic ecosystem and ensure it remains safe and healthy long into the future!