Rangers on Palau's Helen Reef endure months of isolation and limited supplies while patrolling a rich ecosystem threatened by poachers and climate change.
Yannick Peterhans reports for The Associated Press.
In short:
- Helen Reef, part of Palau’s Protected Areas Network, is home to over 500 fish species, sea turtles and coral, attracting poachers.
- Four rangers at a time live on Helen Island, patrolling for illegal fishing while battling isolation and resource shortages.
- Erosion from rising sea levels now threatens the island itself, putting their station at risk.
Key quote:
“What we are worried about is the disappearance of the island.”
— Hercules Emilio, senior conservation officer
Why this matters:
Helen Reef supports rare species and biodiversity, but climate change and poaching jeopardize its future. Protecting this remote ecosystem is vital for conservation efforts in the Pacific.
