Coral reefs are in crisis worldwide. One of the least known environmental emergencies is the decline of coral reefs globally. Last year President Clinton established the Coral Reef Task Force by Executive Order 13089. The second meeting of the CRTF will be held March 5 - 6 in Maui, Hawaii. The purpose of this meeting will be to present plans developed to address the global coral reef crisis.

As a member of the media you are invited to attend the meeting as well as participate in additional activities designed to give reporters a first-hand look at the problems facing coral reef ecosystems.

Additionally, on March 4, prior to the CRTF meeting, the Center for Marine Conservation, NOAA and the State of Hawaii will host a panel discussion on human impact to coral reefs. The goal is to help define stress and degradation in coral reef habitats. I encourage you to participate.

Enclosed is a preliminary meeting agenda and a summary of possible decisions to be announced at the meeting

The Meeting will be held at the Outrigger Wailea Beach Hotel on the island of Maui. Rooms may be reserved by calling the hotel at 800-367-2960. A block of rooms is being held under "Coral Reef Task Force". If you are interested in attending, please contact me at (202) 482-6090. I will glad to make additional arrangements for you to interview researchers, examine the coral reef habitat and obtain background materials.

Sincerely,

Matt Stout
NOAA Public Affairs

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U.S. Coral reef Task Force Meeting
March 5-6, 1999
Maui Hawaii

Thursday, March 4

Arrival day

(The Center for Maine conservation, NOAA, and the State of Hawaii will host a science panel discussion focused on how to define and evaluate disturbance, stress, and degradation of coal reefs.)

Evening reception

Friday, March 5

8:00 AM
Media Registration

8:30AM
Opening remarks by Task Force Co-Chairmen
Interior Secretary Bruce Ba
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Contact: Matt Stout
matthew.stout@noaa.gov
202-482-6090
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
22-Feb-1999