Penguatan Literasi Konservasi dan Aksi Transplantasi Terumbu Karang dalam Meningkatkan Partisipasi Masyarakat Pesisir di Teluk Tomini, Kota Gorontalo

Abstract

The marine conservation area of Tomini Bay, Gorontalo Province, faces increasing anthropogenic pressures that threaten coral reef ecosystems, particularly within limited-use zones. Limited community literacy regarding conservation regulations remains a challenge to sustainable management. This community engagement program aimed to strengthen conservation literacy and enhance community participation through regulatory education and coral reef transplantation activities. The program was conducted on 21–23 November 2025 at Century Beach and Botutonuo Beach, Gorontalo City, involving 81 participants consisting of academics, coastal communities, and the Gorontalo Naval Base (Lanal Gorontalo). The methods included participatory counseling, interactive discussions, and hands-on coral transplantation through group diving activities. Coral transplantation was carried out at a depth of 3–5 m using concrete blocks and pyramid-shaped PVC pipe structures, with 37 coral fragments of Acropora spp. transplanted. Activity evaluation was conducted descriptively through observation of participant engagement, responses during discussions, and participation in field practice. The results indicated a qualitative increase in participants’ understanding of the functions and management of conservation areas, as well as the emergence of initial community initiatives to support periodic area monitoring. The activity also provided participants with technical experience in ecosystem restoration efforts. Overall, the integration of educational and field-based practical activities showed potential to strengthen community social capacity and support collaborative governance of the Tomini Bay conservation area.