​In the Virgin Islands Reef Resilience Study (VIRRS), we are investigating what makes coral reefs resilient - their ability to withstand and recover from disturbances - across the US Virgin Islands. Our large-scale research project analyzes data from 42-50 reef sites at depths of 3-63 meters. These sites represent nearly all coral reef habitats in the USVI region, from nearshore to offshore and shallow to deep areas.

We are examining how various factors influence reef resilience, looking at both external conditions (like temperature, water quality, and distance from shore) and internal reef characteristics (such as coral health, species diversity, and fish populations). VIRRS data comes from three major monitoring programs that have tracked these reefs over time: the Territorial Coral Reef Monitoring Program (TCRMP), US National Park Service, and California State University Northridge.

VIRRS data comes from three major monitoring programs that have tracked these reefs over time: the Territorial Coral Reef Monitoring Program (TCRMP), US National Park Service, and California State University Northridge.

To analyze such a complex dataset, we've developed a novel and transparent approach using a website and data repository system.

Our website processes and visualizes the data, while a separate repository preserves all original data sources with detailed documentation. This system allows us to continuously integrate as new data become available and ensures our analysis remains reproducible and accessible to researchers. The website and repository will be made public upon completion.

We recently held a workshop in November 2023 in St. Thomas that brought together 35 team members and experts to discuss our ongoing analyses and future directions. We also hosted a town hall and eLightning session at the Ocean Sciences Meeting in February 2024. Through these events, we've engaged with over 60 experts who have helped shape our understanding of reef resilience in the Caribbean. 
​
We are in the final stages of data collection and analysis, working to identify the key drivers of reef resilience in the USVI. This knowledge will be crucial for developing effective management strategies to help these vital ecosystems persist in the face of increasing environmental pressures.

Our eLightning session at the Ocean Sciences Meeting, New Orleans, Feb 2024

updated 26 Dec 24