“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.”

Jacques Yves Cousteau, oceanographer

Paradise Lost – and Found

When Noah Idechong looks out over the warm, clear waters that surround the islands of Palau, he sees corals, fish, turtles, and countless other creatures that might not be there today if not for his work. When too much commercial fishing threatened the waters that had supported his ancestors for centuries, Noah decided to take action. He helped develop new fishing regulations and worked with local fishers to rediscover traditional fishing methods.

Many of the marine populations have recovered, but his work isn’t done. Noah’s always looking for new ways to help Palauans meet their economic needs while they protect the biodiversity that makes Palau a paradise.