Coral reef conservation has long been a core value at Dive Bequia Dive Shop, and during 2022 and 2024 we were proud to be part of an ambitious and meaningful Coral Nursery project in Bequia. In mid-June 2022, we successfully established Bequia’s first coral nursery, with the goal of supporting reef regeneration at Devil’s Table and other sites along the leeward coast.

The project was the result of nearly five years of planning, research, discussion, and persistence. After countless conversations and preparations, the idea finally became reality. We installed ten coral nursery trees, fully stocked with Acropora palmata (Elkhorn coral) — one of the Caribbean’s most important reef-building coral species. Our long-term vision at the time was to expand the nursery and eventually introduce additional coral species to strengthen reef diversity and resilience.

Throughout the project, the nursery structures were carefully maintained to give the corals the best possible conditions for growth and survival. Each coral fragment was closely monitored, and once corals reached an appropriate size, the plan was to outplant them back onto the reef, where their progress would continue to be documented.

Every step of the process was meticulously recorded. From selecting donor corals to hanging individual fragments, we logged coral origins, took before-and-after photos, assigned each structure its own nursery “tree,” and tracked survival and growth rates. This data-driven approach allowed us to evaluate how corals from different areas performed and helped guide future restoration decisions.

This project would not have been possible without the generous support of the SVG Conservation Fund, whose funding enabled us to establish the nursery and sustain the work through at least two outplanting cycles. We were also incredibly fortunate to receive guidance and hands-on support from Ken Nedimyer of Nedimyer Consulting Services. Ken, along with his wife Denise and volunteers Andrew and Deidre, worked tirelessly with us, sharing their expertise, materials, and practical knowledge. Their energy, efficiency, and attention to detail played a crucial role in the success of the project.

However, following the heartbreaking loss of Bob, Cathy’s husband and the founder of Dive Bequia, and shortly after the impact of Hurricane Beryl our focus and resources had to shift. During this difficult period, there simply wasn’t the capacity — emotionally or practically — to continue the coral nursery work. As a result, the project was placed on hold.

Now, with time, healing, and the support of a new and strengthened team, the idea of reviving this important reef conservation project in Bequia has once again come into our thoughts. While nothing has been confirmed yet, the passion for protecting and restoring Bequia’s reefs remains strong, and we are hopeful that, in the future, we may once again be able to dedicate the energy this meaningful project deserves.

We’ll be sure to share updates as these plans continue to develop — and we look forward to the day when coral restoration once again becomes an active part of our journey. 🌱