In this episode of 'Rising Tide, the Ocean podcast,' hosts David Helvarg and Vicki Nichols Goldstein interview Melanie McField, the founder and director of Healthy Reefs for Healthy People. Melanie shares her journey from a childhood interest in marine biology to her work in Belize with the Peace Corps and beyond. She discusses the creation of the world's first science-based coral reef report card, which evaluates the health of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest coral reef system globally. Melanie details the indicators used in the report card, including coral cover, macro-algae levels, herbivorous fish populations, and commercial fish stocks. She explains the impact of COVID-19 on fishing practices and reef health, the importance of protected areas, and the ongoing challenges of pollution and nutrient management. The conversation also touches on global reef stressors like coral bleaching and disease and the potential for coral restoration projects. Melanie expresses cautious optimism for the future, citing the dedication of conservation groups and innovative restoration efforts.

** Links & Resources **
Reef Report: https://www.healthyreefs.org/en/healthy-reefs-data/report-cards

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