Palau’s Rock Islands harbor an abundance of marine life. The islands provide habitat for several endangered species. The Rock Islands are also well known as a premier diving and tourist destination.

In previous years, PCS worked in partnership with traditional leaders and the Koror State Government to implement improved management of the Southern Lagoon (containing the reef and the Rock Islands). Koror State now manages the entire Southern Lagoon using a sustainable financing mechanism (through the sale of visitor permits), and employs a number of Rangers who patrol and manage the Rock Islands. PCS continues to work with Koror State on several projects, such as to implement a tour guide training program.

PCS was instrumental in the development of the famous Jellyfish Lake as a tourist destination. Working in partnership with Koror State and RARE Center for Tropical Conservation, in 1996 PCS installed a nature trail with educational signboards, floating docks both inside and outside the lake, and provided composting toilets. Jellyfish Lake has since become one of Palau’s most popular tourist destinations.

A comprehensive management plan has been developed for Koror’s Southern Lagoon area and is currently pending legislative approval. Some of the highlighted conservation areas include the following:

Ngerukuid Islands Wildlife Preserve, also known as “Seventy Islands,” a critical breeding site for endangered hawksbill sea turtles and home to seven of the world’s nine known giant clam species.

Ngerumekaol Channel, an important grouper spawning area. PCS helped the national government institute a law based on the traditional practice of bul, which bans fishing here throughout the year.

Ngemelis, one of Palau’s top dive destinations. Recognizing the area’s value as a natural resource, local communities helped influence Koror State’s decision to ban fishing within a one-mile radius around Ngemelis.