MANAGEMENT

Coral Reefs are under pressure from a diverse range of natural and human threats. This presents complex challenges for those tasked with their management, and means that not only coral reef ecosystems, but also people, must be considered in the management and protection of coral reef resources.

To encourage the use of the most up to date science, strategies and tools in the management of coral reefs, it is important that managers from across the globe are provided with opportunities to access new information, share their experiences, and to learn of successful strategies and best practices being conducted in other countries. It is also critical that the experiences of managers are effectively relayed to decision makers within governments to encourage the development of supportive environmental policy.

To respond effectively to the shared challenges, the international management community must join forces and learn from each other's efforts, while developing effective networks for a more coordinated approach to coral reef management.

ICRAN works to reach a broad audience on international, regional and local levels to:

• Provide opportunities for managers to meet and exchange knowledge and information
• Develop innovative training materials and training programmes to build capacity among managers
• Encourage the uptake of effective actions across the globe through the promotion and dissemination of best practices
• Create opportunities for managers to build contact networks and linkages to other sectors

The International Coral Reef Symposium (ICRS) is a major scientific conference focused on coral reefs worldwide, providing opportunities for resource managers and scientists to exchange experiences and ideas on coral reef science, management, and conservation. The 11th International Coral Reef Symposium took place on July 2008 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.

Some examples of ICRAN management activities are listed below: