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The Kosrae Coral Reef Monitoring Project -- About Kosrae
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The Future Reef Monitors of Kosrae
Kosrae (pronounced variously as Ku-shy or Ko-shry) is the
easternmost and second largest of the islands of the Micronesian
island chain (which includes the well known dive destinations
of Chuuk, Palau, and Yap) and is one of the four States of the
Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Centered on a 2000 foot volcano,
Kosrae is a lush tropical jungle environment with numerous rivers
and waterfalls. The island's mangrove forests are some of the
most impressive in the Pacific. The white sand beaches, temperate
trade winds and warm water (average daily 80F) combine to create
an exceptionally attractive destination. (See Map for location)
Kosrae is completely surrounded by a rich coral reef system
populated by a tremendous variety of exotic fish and invertebrates
and at least 170 species of corals. Rays, eels, grouper,
and barracuda are common. The island additionally has
a large population of Green turtles and schools of bottlenosed
dolphin which cruise the outside of the reef. Kosrae is triangular
in shape, with good dive sites on all sides, so diving is not
typically restricted by wind or current. Visibility averages 100+ft.
and in August it is not uncommon to have 200 ft. clarity.
Kosrae's history has included whaling, piracy, and warfare,
and the remnants of these activities can be found both on the
island and underwater. There are a number of wrecks, both contemporary and historic located
in Kosrae's Harbor. For those with an interest in archaeology, the
Lelu Ruins rank as one of the most significant historic sites
in the Pacific. Lelu was the capital of a complex feudal society
and ruins of many of the dwelling and burial compounds remain
and are in the process of being preserved. For those who wish
to explore, there are numerous hiking trails, caves, waterfalls
with bathing pools, and the mangrove channels which can be reached
by canoe. With luck you may spot some of the island's more unusual
inhabitants; skinks, geckos, and monitor lizards.
To learn more about Kosrae and the Federated States visit the links at the right.
GREAT ARTICLE ON HIS
VISIT TO KOSRAE
PACIFIC ISLANDS FORUM
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