Project Overview
Dramatically Scaling up Multi-species Coral Restoration in Targeted Sites in the Dominican Republic as a Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (CoralRestore DR)
Dominican Republic
CoralRestore DR built the climate resilience of Punta Cana and other Dominican communities by scaling a proven coral-restoration model. Land-based coral nurseries produced explants for restoration while creating land- and sea-based employment, particularly for fisherfolk. The project refined techniques for wider replication and supported national outreach through a broad network of tourism, conservation, and community partners.
Key Objectives
- Scale multi-species coral restoration and land-based coral nursery production
- Improve the resilience and ecological function of coral reef and coastal ecosystems
- Create alternative employment and livelihood opportunities for fisherfolk and community residents
- Refine and replicate coral-restoration techniques across the Dominican Republic
Ecosystem Focus
Coral reefs and associated coastal ecosystems off Punta Cana and targeted sites in the Dominican Republic.
Communities Involved
This project was implemented in the following communities and project areas:
- Punta Cana coastal communities
- Fisher communities, tourism workers, and visitors in the project area
- Partner communities and restoration practitioners reached through national replication activities
Implementing Organizations
Lead Organization:
Fundación Grupo Puntacana (FGPC)
Fundación Grupo Puntacana led coral propagation, restoration, training, community employment, partnership coordination, and the development of a scalable national restoration model.
Project Partners
- The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
- Asociación de Artesanos y Servicios Marinos (ARSEMAR)
- Asociación de Centros Acuáticos
- The Eastern Hotel Association (ASOLESTE)
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ)
- Grupo Puntacana
- Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA)
- Coral Morphologic