Lachelle Russell and Kristian Moree have joined the team at Conservation Cove, as Aquaculture Technicians, for the Grand Bahama Queen Conch Mariculture Center. They tell us why they are excited to be working on cutting-edge solutions and the challenges facing one of The Bahamas’ most iconic fisheries resources.
Lachelle, a Registered Phlebotomy Technician, said: “It is essential that we boost conch reserves to ensure that this resource doesn’t become locally endangered. The Mariculture Center employs meticulous methods to grow conch eggs in the lab, from samples provided by local fishermen. Careful control of water quality, salinity and temperature is used to care for the eggs and for the juvenile conch from hatching to maturity.”
Kristian added: “Restoring conch populations is only one part of the equation. It is very important to educate fishermen, the public in general and most importantly, young Bahamians about the lifecycle of the conch, the fragility of the local population and the threat posed by overfishing and other manmade and climate-created challenges.”
We, Blue Action Lab, launched The Mariculture Center earlier this year in partnership with Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute. It operates in conjunction with BAL partner Coral Vita, a high-tech coral farm which has been working in Grand Bahama to restore dying reefs impacted by ocean warming and other serious challenges.
Dr. Megan Davis, a research professor in aquaculture and stock enhancement and director of the Queen Conch Lab at the Institute, spent several weeks in Grand Bahama training Lachelle, Kristian and other Mariculture Center team.
“It is extremely encouraging to see young
Bahamian scientists so enthusiastic about and dedicated to this effort,” she said. Despite their youth, Lachelle and Kristian bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the center, but also a deep appreciation of the importance of this species and the urgent need to protect it.”
Lachelle graduated with honors from the University of The Bahamas, School of Environmental Life Science in Nassau, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry in May 2022. She is a Registered Phlebotomy Technician through the Phlebotomy Mastery Institute and the American Medical Technologists in Grand Bahama. Lachelle also has a strong background in community engagement and education, having worked as a teacher at ICAN Community School in Grand Bahama. She is currently involved in the Pine Forest Restoration program in East Grand Bahama.
“When I think about the Mariculture Center and the Blue Action Lab in general, I think about conservation meeting innovation,” Lachelle said. “The primary goal of BAL is creating a sustainable environment for the social and economic benefit of Bahamians and that brings me so much joy. To think that we are preserving our nation’s treasures for future generations to come is a wonderful concept and I’m proud to be a part of the initiative.”
Kristian was recognized for his dedication to Biology with inclusion on the Dean's List at Dalhousie University in Canada. Since graduating in 2022, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to the environmental sector, serving as a Science Officer for the Bahamas National Trust, where he managed operations at the Mobile Queen Conch Hatchery in Moriah Harbor Cay National Park. His enthusiasm for community engagement led to speaking engagements at TEDx Grand Bahama and active involvement in international coastal cleanups across Grand Bahama and Great Exuma.
“My work with BNT led me to become really interested in the science of conch aquaculture, particularly being drawn towards the very practical and hands-on aspect of it all, along with the intricacy of the life cycle. I had the privilege of being trained by Dr. Megan Davis at that time, and the knowledge that she was able to share with me was spectacular.
“Not only am I passionate about the restoration and conservation efforts of the Blue Action Lab's Grand Bahama team; I am also very adamant about the educational opportunity that this project can provide to both the Bahamian populace and students who may not realize the practical value of the skills that they are being taught on a weekly basis in their science classes. As a nation, we must realize that the Queen Conch is an invaluable resource, and we cannot exploit it beyond the point at which the natural restoration of wild breeding populations is no longer possible. Our team here at Blue Action Lab is committed and determined to make a positive change for future generations that are to follow.”
BAL founder and president Rupert Hayward said: “At Conservation Cove, where we are pioneering solutions to a wide array of urgent challenges posed by climate change to low-lying coastal nations like The Bahamas, while also building a thriving new economy to benefit Bahamians. The Grand Bahama Queen Conch Mariculture Center is a most welcome addition to this effort.
“Bright young Grand Bahamian minds like Lachelle and Kristian exemplify the kind of cutting-edge career opportunities that are available to Bahamians in the environmental sustainability space. Crucially, they are doing rewarding work that will also create economic benefits for other Bahamians in a plethora of industries – from fisheries, to hospitality, to research and development, and much more.
A Technician's Journey in Aquaculture at Blue Action Lab
by Lachelle Russell
As a biology major with a minor in Chemistry, I’ve always had a deep interest in the sciences, and my university years further solidified this passion, particularly through hands-on laboratory work. The meticulous world of microscopy was a highlight for me, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of life at the cellular level. These experiences, along with the diverse set of skills I’ve developed have all played a crucial role in preparing me for my current role as an Aquaculture Technician at Blue Action Lab.
Since joining Blue Action Lab, I’ve immersed myself in the complexities of aquaculture, particularly in understanding the life cycle of conch and how to nurture these animals to ensure their proper development.
The company’s small size has been a blessing, as it allows us to work closely together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared growth. The work we do is new, and each day brings fresh knowledge and experiences, which we bond over as a team. Training with Dr. Megan Davis was a particularly memorable experience—intense, informative, and rewarding.
The work we are doing at Blue Action Lab is not just innovative—it’s essential. By focusing on improving food security and nutrition while revitalizing a major industry in The Bahamas, we are tackling significant challenges head-on. It’s a difficult task, but one that I believe will have a lasting impact, providing Bahamians with access to diverse food sources and sustainable income for years to come.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. I’m excited to continue growing with Blue Action Lab and contributing to the important work we do here.
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