April 2009 E-Current

Dear Friends,

We're just a couple of weeks away from the 39th anniversary of Earth Day. As individuals, organizations, and governments around the world turn their attention to the environment this April 22, we'd like to focus that attention on our precious oceans. After all, the oceans make up 71 percent of the Earth—and while coral reefs cover less than 1 percent of the oceans, they are essential ecological support systems for nearly 25 percent of all marine fish species.

In this edition of E-Current, we share the story of the first Earth Day in 1970, announce the launch of our new online community on YouTube, reveal some fascinating research that looks at vacation photos to track fisheries declines, and congratulate the winners of our San Francisco Ocean Film Festival raffle.

Since Spring is a time of new beginnings, why not take this opportunity to share your passion for coral reefs with a friend. Forward this issue of E-Current to someone who loves the ocean and help us recruit more members for our grassroots conservation team. Thanks for your help and for your ongoing support.

Cheers,

Brian Huse
Executive Director