The MSC Foundation is marking one year of progress in The Bahamas, highlighting expanded work in coral restoration, marine science, education and community engagement, particularly in Bimini.
Since opening its Marine Conservation Centre at Ocean Cay in April 2025, the Foundation says it has built a growing presence in the destination, advancing restoration efforts, training marine science students and engaging visitors in ocean education.
More than 600 corals have been grown in the Centre’s underwater nursery, with over 250 already outplanted onto nearby reefs. According to the Foundation, these corals have shown resilience through peak summer temperatures.
“Our work in The Bahamas is grounded in partnership, science, and shared responsibility,” said Emeline Bouchet, MSC Foundation Marine Program Manager based at Ocean Cay.
“As we mark Earth Day, it is an opportunity to highlight on how our efforts must extend beyond restoration to building on local knowledge and capacity–ensuring that Bahamian students and communities are actively involved in research, education, and environmental stewardship.”
The Marine Conservation Centre serves as a hub for research, training and public engagement. In February 2026, the Foundation expanded its partnership with the Perry Institute for Marine Science through a coral species exchange aimed at increasing genetic diversity and strengthening reef resilience. The initiative included the addition of elkhorn coral to restoration nurseries and contributions to the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank.
The Foundation has also strengthened academic partnerships, including collaboration with the University of The Bahamas to support a dedicated marine science laboratory. Six graduate internships were completed with students from the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, alongside field visits and immersive training programs.
Students from the University of The Bahamas and the Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute also participated in week-long courses at Ocean Cay, with 16 participants receiving hands-on training in coral propagation, reef monitoring and restoration.
Public engagement has been another focus. The Centre has welcomed more than 17,000 visitors in its first year, while community initiatives in Bimini included a beach cleanup with more than 120 participants and a high school agricultural education program reaching up to 80 students.
The Foundation says its work aligns with broader goals around marine conservation, education and sustainable tourism development in The Bahamas.
“As we look ahead, our focus is on translating this momentum into measurable, long-term impact,” said Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director.
“By deepening our partnerships and investing in local capacity, we will continue to support The Bahamas as a leader in marine conservation and sustainable development.”
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