Breaking into marine biology is challenging. With limited hands-on opportunities in this highly competitive field, gaining real-world experience can feel out of reach.
My time with Coral Restoration Foundation in St. Croix provided an immersive, firsthand experience in reef restoration. The lessons I learned extended beyond technical skills, showing me how science, strategy, and action work together to build resilient reefs and drive meaningful conservation.
When the time came to select a professional placement for my Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology at James Cook University, I wanted an experience that felt personal. Instead of choosing a pre-organized placement, I sought an opportunity that allowed me to contribute to reef restoration while giving back to my home island.
Reaching out to CRF led me to their St. Croix satellite program , where I gained more than just technical training. The work involved developing a self-sustaining broodstock collection and prioritizing genetic diversity, revealing how innovative, science-driven restoration efforts create lasting change.
The CRF St. Croix program plays a crucial role in rebuilding local reefs, which have suffered severe damage from intense coral bleaching over the past two years. One of the most impressive aspects of CRF is the commitment to self-sufficiency. Instead of continuously sourcing coral fragments from the reef, the team developed a broodstock collection within the nursery, ensuring a stable and genetically diverse supply for propagation. Many of the corals introduced into this system were already displaced or partially damaged, making them unlikely to survive without intervention. This approach minimizes disruption to wild populations while turning potential reef losses into valuable resources for large-scale restoration.
One of the most striking elements of this work is the emphasis on genetic diversity. Every coral fragment is carefully tagged and tracked, preventing competition or inbreeding within the nursery. This level of precision results in stronger, healthier corals that have a higher chance of thriving when returned to the reef. Seeing the care and attention given to each step of the restoration process deepened my appreciation for the science that drives conservation. The focus on cultivating resilient coral strains strengthened my hope for the future, proving that strategic restoration improves reefs’ ability to withstand environmental challenges.
One of my primary projects during this placement involved developing an education and outreach plan. Growing up in St. Croix allowed me to bring a local perspective, helping CRF explore ways to connect with schools, organizations, and the public. Contributing to community engagement efforts reinforced the importance of involving people in conservation efforts to ensure long-term impact.
Even with all of these meaningful experiences, my favorite part of this placement was working in the water. Cleaning nursery trees, propagating coral fragments, and actively participating in restoration efforts felt incredibly rewarding. After seeing firsthand how bleaching events have devastated reefs, being part of the solution gave me a sense of purpose.
Beyond the fieldwork, this experience introduced me to an incredible community. From the dedicated CRF team to nursery visitors eager to learn, I was surrounded by passionate individuals committed to making a difference. I am especially grateful for my placement advisor, Bailey, who provided guidance that extended far beyond technical training. She shared invaluable knowledge, helped me navigate the transition from student to professional, and sent me internship and job opportunities, making the uncertainty of post-graduation life feel more manageable.
This placement solidified my passion for marine conservation and deepened my understanding of how fieldwork and community engagement must work together. Whether working underwater, developing outreach initiatives, or witnessing the direct impact of restoration efforts, I felt part of something bigger.
The restoration efforts led by CRF, combined with a strong focus on community involvement, provide hope for the future of St. Croix’s reefs. I am incredibly grateful to CRF for welcoming me into such an impactful mission and to JCU for supporting me in completing this placement.
For anyone wondering if making a difference in ocean conservation is possible, the answer is yes. Even small actions ripple outward, and the work being done proves how much can be achieved through collaboration and dedication.
Written by: Lidia Boguslawska, Temporary Student Placement
