The Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program is committed to restoring and conserving the Cozumel coral reefs. In 2022, we experienced a significant coral die-off event followed by increased algae growth. This prompted us to investigate potential causes, including the possibility of untreated wastewater entering our coastal waters.
Initial Investigation
Initial Testing: Preliminary water testing by former intern Mckaela Jones indicated the presence of nitrates, nitrites, and phosphates near Villa Blanca Reefs. These substances, byproducts of organic matter decomposition, act as fertilizer and fuel algae growth.
Visual Observations: Volunteers observed what appeared to be toilet paper fragments floating near the reef, further raising concerns about wastewater contamination.
Official Investigation
On October 30, 2024, we partnered with Laclicsa, an independent laboratory, to conduct a comprehensive water quality analysis. Water samples were collected from six sites between Sand Dollar Sports and Tikila Beach Bar, Each sample was sealed with a clear chain of custody for accuracy and reliability.
Key Findings
Site 1-5 had negligible fecal bacteria, but Site 6 revealed alarming levels of fecal bacteria. Since we get so many American tourists, we used the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s more stringent guidelines to put the values into context.
Enterococci: 78 NMP/100ml (more than double the U.S. EPA's marine safe swimming guideline)
E. coli: 4.5 NMP/100ml (any presence is of concern)
The Impact of Wastewater Pollution
High levels of fecal bacteria pose risks to human health and marine life:
Human Health: Swimmers and beachgoers are at increased risk of illness.
Coral Health: Wastewater pathogens can cause coral diseases, weaken their immune systems, and increase susceptibility to bleaching events. Additionally, the decomposition of organic matter in sewage depletes oxygen levels in the water, stressing corals and other marine organisms.
Our Actions
Raising Awareness: This report aims to initiate a community discussion on solutions to address this wastewater leak. We are happy to provide the official lab report upon request.
Coral Protection: Our volunteers are actively mitigating algae overgrowth by scrubbing the areas surrounding corals. Corals grow 1-2cm per year and algae grows 1-2 per day. This prevents the algae from smothering them.
Relocation of Coral Nurseries: To protect our coral nurseries, we have moved them to deeper waters with cleaner currents. These relocated nurseries are showing positive responses.
Next Steps
We are committed to collaborating with local authorities, businesses, and community members to identify the source of the wastewater contamination and implement effective solutions. We believe that collaborative action is crucial to help us preserve the natural patrimony of Mexico for future generations.
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