The work of Alligator Head Foundation falls under three main pillars: management of the East Portland Fish sanctuary, the science and research within and around sanctuary, and our fervent work and outreach within the community.
Sanctuary
Fish stocks in Portland, and across the island have been depleting drastically. The establishment of the East Portland Fish Sanctuary put a halt to the fishing pressure over the years and allows the fish numbers to be restored over time. The success story of other sanctuaries and marine protected areas, such as our partners Cabo Pulmo National Park, acts as inspiration for what Portland’s fisheries could be.
Science
Mangroves, seagrass and coral reef and deep water habitats are all present on our Portland coastlines, and restoration of these critical habitats is central scientific work we undergo at AHF through various outplanting activities. Our scientific work also includes monitoring and assessment of coral reef health through global GCRMN protocol, which includes lionfish control. Our newest endeavour is the sea turtle conservation programme, which involves the monitoring of nesting beaches, and sea turtle hatchling releases.
Community
It has been said that management of fisheries is less about managing the fish themselves, and more about the dialogue and bond built with the people interacting with it. As a result, we value our ongoing relationship with the communities surrounding the sanctuary, and equip them with knowledge and sustainable fishing practices through education and outreach, as well as offering various livelihood diversification options for the displaced fisherfolk.