Earthwatch Research Expeditions Guide by Ian Allison

you measure you photograph you identify you excavate you document you explore you count... research expeditions 2010

environmental timeline 1890s Scientists Svante Arrhenius and Thomas C Chamberlain, independently question the effects of CO2 building up in the atmosphere, speculating that this could lead to a rise in global temperature.

1972 Delegates at the UN Conference on the Human Environment, Sweden, adopt 109 recommendations for government action, while pushing for the creation of the UN Environment Programme.

1916 National Park Service established in the USA to conserve scenery and wildlife for future generations.

1973 US Congress passes the Endangered Species Act, acclaimed as the “most comprehensive legislation for the protection of endangered species ever enacted by any nation”.

1948 The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) publishes the first Red List of endangered and threatened species, creating a world standard for gauging threats to biodiversity. 1957 Scientist David Keeling initiates the first continuous monitoring of CO2 levels in the atmosphere, soon finding a regular year-on-year rise. 1962 Rachel Carson publishes her book Silent Spring, raising awareness of the threat of toxic chemicals to the environment. 1968 International experts meet for the first time at the UN Biosphere Conference in France, to discuss global environmental problems. 1970 At the first Earth Day, approximately 20 million US citizens campaign against environmental abuses, setting the creation of landmark environmental laws into motion.

1971 Earthwatch Institute established in USA to engage people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment.

1972 Landmark ecologically-themed sci-fi film, Silent Running, released, depicting a future in which Earth’s plant life faces extinction.

1976 The UN Environment Programme conference in Nairobi establishes an independent commission to craft a “global agenda for change”. 1982 Earthwatch opens Australia office in Sydney

1983 The US Environmental Protection Agency and the US National Academy of Sciences release reports warning that rising greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere are likely to encourage global warming. 1985 First major international conference on the greenhouse effect, in Austria, cautions that greenhouse gases will “in the first half of the next century, cause a rise of global mean temperature which is greater than any in man’s history”. 1988 UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) formed to analyse and report on scientific findings.

1989 Earthwatch launches Student Challenge Awards Programme to offer scholarships to students, supported by the Durfee Foundation, to promote environmental awareness and lead to a new wave of environmental leaders.

1990 Earthwatch opens Europe office, based in Oxford, UK

1992 The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (Kyoto Protocol) signed by 154 nations in Rio de Janeiro, agrees to work against â&#x20AC;&#x153;dangerousâ&#x20AC;? warming from greenhouse gases.

2006 Former US vice president, Al Gore, releases An Inconvenient Truth, a film which has educated citizens around the world about global warming and encouraged them to take action.

1993 Earthwatch Japan established in Tokyo 2007 International bank, HSBC partners with Earthwatch in a ground-breaking fiveyear programme on climate change to inspire action by individuals, businesses and governments world-wide.

1996 Earthwatch works with the inventors of the Internet to provide the first live webcast from an Earthwatch research project in the mountains of Mexico to the Harvard Science Center and a classroom in Massachusetts.

2009 The cautionary movie, The Age of Stupid, is released, hypothesising a world devastated by climate change in the world of 2055, with humanity on the brink of extinction through its own actions.

1997 Kyoto Protocol agrees on legally binding emissions cuts for industrialised nations to be met by 2010.

United Nations Climate Change Conference, the official follow up to Kyoto, takes place in Copenhagen

2000 A series of major floods around the world reinforce public concerns that global warming is raising the risk of extreme weather events. 2005 Chairman of Copenhagen Climate Council, Tim Flannery, publishes The Weather Makers: The History and Future Impact of Climate Change, which includes 36 essays predicting the consequences of climate change.

Earthwatch has inspired over 90,000 individuals of many nationalities, backgrounds and cultures in support of field research on thousands of projects worldwide, contributing thousands of days to essential fieldwork.

During the next decade Earthwatch aims to create 10 million environmental ambassadors and initiate 35,000 community action projects in our mission to work for a sustainable future.

contents introduction

research areas: what, where and why

learning and education: who, how and when

get involved!

the big picture: journey round a photograph

joining a research project: what types of experiences can you expect?

day in the life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; amazon riverboat exploration

day in the life â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wildlife of the mongolian steppe

ecosystems projects

climate change projects

heroes for the planet

oceans projects

cultural heritage projects

additional expeditions: teen, family, short duration, groups and fellowships

find out more

in safe hands health and safety

support earthwatch

frequently asked questions and essential information

earthwatch worldwide dates and prices

International Board of Directors

inside back cover

Symbol key = Rigorous Volunteers must be physically fit, as the expedition involves long hikes over rough or difficult terrain, or is at high altitude

= Family teams Available as family expeditions, for children ages 10 and up and their parents or guardians. See page 41 for details.

= Teen teams Available as teams specifically for teenagers. See page 41 for details.

= Short duration expeditions Expeditions that last five days or less

= Scuba To go on these expeditions, you must be scuba-certified. If special certification is required it is noted in the description.

= In focus = Follow for more information

introduction Welcome to the world of Earthwatch. For almost 40 years, Earthwatch has pioneered a unique model of citizen science. We inspire people from all walks of life to take a hands-on role in helping field scientists around the world find solutions to the most challenging environmental issues of our time. This guide demonstrates the urgency of the research we support in climate change, oceans, ecosystems and cultural heritage. Our results contribute to global scientific knowledge and inform better ways of managing our planet. And you are at the heart of our research. Earthwatch volunteers have many faces: students, families, educators, employees and more. What they share is a desire to make things happen and create a lasting legacy – for the environment, and in their lives and communities. We hope this guide will be the start of your journey with us – and we invite you to visit our website where you will find information about our projects, the latest research results, environmental news, events, fundraising ideas and many other ways of supporting the vital work that our scientists and volunteers share. At Earthwatch you measure, you learn, you inspire, you change…and importantly, you count. We do hope you will join us in our collective quest for a healthy and sustainable planet. Nigel Winser Executive Vice President and Head of Programmes, Earthwatch

www.earthwatch.org/europe

ecosystems

climate change

oceans

cultural heritage

Organise a student group in 2010 with Earthwatch

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Earthwatch funds results

research areas: what, where and why? Earthwatch research Earthwatch will fund critical scientific research projects across four key areas in 2010. You’ll have the opportunity to join one of more than 50 research projects in 24 countries around the world. You will join leading researchers and demonstrate the power of “citizen science”. On our climate change expeditions, you can help the world face one of its greatest challenges. From the permafrost of the Arctic Circle to the volcanoes of Central America, you’ll improve understanding of how climate change affects ecosystems, and of how plants and soils play key roles in the carbon cycle. Whether restoring Kenyan mangrove forests or conserving Borneo’s tropical rainforests, Earthwatch researchers will mitigate climatic disruptions. Supporting the study of species and habitats as different as caterpillars in Costa Rica and chipmunks in Nova Scotia, Earthwatch unravels the mysteries of adaptation and provides data for climate change management policies. Since climate change and other global issues threaten worldwide cultures, Earthwatch preserves biocultural diversity through Cultural Heritage research. Some expeditions touch the distant past, investigating remnants of Imperial Rome in Europe or uncovering the fate of Ice Age mammoths in North America. Others identify the influence and ensure the legacy of cultures both past and present, from the Rapa Nui of Easter Island, the Angkor people of Southeast Asia, to the Yakama Nation in the northwest United States. These projects discover how branches of humanity affect the natural world – and each other.

Human dependence upon ecosystems – and how we endanger what we need – is another key area of our research. Addressing the biodiversity crisis, we fund work to save cheetahs in Namibia, macaws in the Peruvian Amazon, and songbirds in the Rocky Mountains, along with many other species and habitats. Volunteers, scientists, and local communities work to understand and protect complex ecosystems that sustain agriculture and the economy by providing fresh water, timber, medicines, and more. From New York City’s urban wilds to the remote richness of the Mongolian Steppe, from mountain waters of the Czech Republic to the wildlife and people of Samburu in Kenya, Earthwatch investigates and ensures our interconnected survival. Interconnectedness is clear in our Oceans projects, since all seas are part of one global ocean. We focus on vulnerable coastal habitats like coral reefs and threatened species like dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Whether showing the effects of development in the Caribbean, protecting key migration routes in the Pacific, or discovering new zones of marine biodiversity in the Seychelles, Earthwatch research grapples with threats to the global ocean from climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Whatever their specific projects, Earthwatch scientists produce results that give us hope for a sustainable future. As they discover new species, establish protected areas, preserve lessons of the past, and conceive ways to address current environmental challenges, these researchers – and the volunteers who assist them – become the planet’s heroes. We’re honoured to support their work, and invite you to join them in 2010.

A few recent accomplishments of Earthwatch scientists and volunteers: • Discovering 18 new species in South Africa’s Mkhambathi Nature Reserve • Shaping management policies in Peru’s Lago Preto Conservation Concession that have fostered the recovery of key species • Aiding Ikh Nart Nature Reserve’s designation as an Important Birding Area in Mongolia, establishing its ecotourism camp and ranger corps, and helping create its management plan • Improving field techniques and materials for banding and video-monitoring threatened African penguins • Discovering fragments of reused masonry in the foundations of an ancient Roman fort in South Shields, England, that pre-date the fort’s estimated AD 160 origins • Documenting blue spotted salamanders for the first time in New York’s Harriman State Park • Celebrating the first fledgling of a chick reared by hand-reared macaws, and establishing that blue and gold macaws fly beyond currently protected areas of the Peruvian Amazon • Advancing the case for Greece’s Amvrakikos Gulf to be made a Marine Protected Area with data on bottlenose dolphin and other threatened marine life in the region • Confirming that while ingesting toxic plants helps caterpillars ward off birds and spiders, it weakens their immune systems, leaving them vulnerable to parasitoids like wasps and flies. • Earthwatch publishes 2008 Science Report. Read or download: earthwatch.org/ europe/publications

Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or go online www.earthwatch.org/europe/schoolgroups

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“ We are making changes in the way we relate to the natural world and to each other based on expert global scientific field research. These changes are fundamentally about balancing the needs of humanity and the natural world, in such a way that actually sustains life.” Ed Wilson President and CEO, Earthwatch

Previous volunteers’ experiences: www.earthwatch.org/europe/diaries

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learning and education: who, how and when? No matter what your motivation for joining an Earthwatch expedition, we are passionate about providing a unique and amazing educational experience for you, illustrating the importance, complexity and vitality of nature. By joining an Earthwatch expedition, you’ll work alongside leading environmental scientists, and make a real contribution to their research projects, as well as gain an understanding of the political, social, and economic impacts of their work. You’ll learn about the application of field-based scientific research, and how the resulting data are used to inform management agendas, policies, and practices. These studies lead to establishing protected areas, halting the loss of threatened species, discovering new species, and finding ways to live more sustainably. Our volunteers return with a heightened sense of personal connection with the environment, a greater appreciation of the natural world, and a new perspective on environmental science. You’ll possess a deeper awareness of humanity’s impact and will have witnessed the relationships between communities and the environment. Our expeditions provide an unforgettable and invaluable educational experience whatever your age, sex, or walk of life. Those of you who have been out with Earthwatch already know this, and we’re grateful that you share your experiences, perspectives, thoughts, ideas, and enthusiasm with us and with other volunteers new and returning. You tell us how you’ve come back transformed and enlightened. You’ve often made new friends and personal and professional connections with our amazing scientists and staff, and have valued the warmth and hospitality of local community hosts.

We know your inspiration nspiration fills you with fresh enthusiasm m and motivation to promote sustainability ability and environmental awareness in your ur life and in the lives of those around you. u. Many of you take action in your workplaces ces and communities by establishing and participating in ongoing environmental projects. rojects. Some of you even change your ur careers entirely… and you might even ven end up running an environmental al non-profit or NGO. (Ed Wilson, our President and CEO, discovered Earthwatch hwatch as a volunteer on one of our projects.) cts.) Earthwatch is especially pecially eager to work with individuals who, in turn, can reach larger audiences. We offer funded Fellowship programmess that at are generously supported by companies, foundations, mpanies foundations and individuals committed to providing outstanding field research opportunities to educators, conservation professionals, corporate employees, and students. Find out more: www.earthwatch.org/europe/learning

“There is no doubt Earthwatch expeditions have totally transformed my life. I abandoned my IT career of 10 years and now, when not in Africa with Earthwatch, I work with other charities focusing on environment and the developing world.” Rob Thompson volunteer on eight Earthwatch expeditions

you photograph, you document, you explore, you count...

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get involved! Earthwatch’s community includes scientists, expedition volunteers, students, educators, corporate fellows, members, donors, staff, field representatives, board members, advisory council members, community and NGO partners, and other supporters, worldwide. We’re a movement of more than 100,000 people engaging in research, education and outreach in some of the places where our fragile planet needs us most. Whether you volunteer in the field or not, you can help.

online Take part in our Facebook, Eons, and YouTube communities, and follow updates on Flickr and Twitter.

events Our offices in Australia, Japan, the UK and US sponsor lectures by Earthwatch scientists, volunteers, and staff; we hold debates; we throw fundraising events; thousands of you attend our social gatherings every year. Many of our events are free and open to the public – check online for details of Earthwatch activities in your area. Subscribe to our monthly eNewsletter for advance notice of events throughout the year. www.earthwatch.org/europe/enews

donations Earthwatch invests millions of pounds/ dollars annually in research and action. One-time donors, annual and lifetime givers are essential to the Earthwatch movement. Visit www.earthwatch.org/ europe/donate to make your contribution. Your donations are invaluable, allowing Earthwatch to continue supporting vital research projects, working towards solving the most critical environmental issues our planet faces now and in the future.

fundraising Increase your support by encouraging matching donations or donations in honour of a special accomplishment, like a marathon. Call +44 (0)1865 318878 in the UK for more information, or visit www.earthwatch.org/europe/ donate_fundraise. You can also help on event-planning committees, particularly for annual events like the SustainaBall in Oxfordshire, UK, our spring fundraiser in New York City, and the Beat the Heat Climate Change Event in Boston, USA. Love Earthwatch? Tell us why!

Go to page 45 at the back of this guide for more information on how to donate to Earthwatch.

expeditions More than 3,500 people each year join our scientists in the field. Students, educators, families, conservation professionals, corporate employees, members of school and community groups – Earthwatch volunteers come from every part of the population, from every country in the world. Volunteers can be as young as 10 on family teams, and there is no upper age limit – we have repeat volunteers in their 90s. You need no special skills or experience, just a desire to make a difference. This is really what this publication is all about. Turn over, and discover the amazing experiences you can have as a volunteer while helping the environment!

in your community More than 91,000 volunteers have joined scientists in the field since Earthwatch began in 1971, and they are our most effective ambassadors. If you’d like to give a presentation on your Earthwatch experience(s) to your workplace or local school, library, community group or the media, Earthwatch can provide a Power Point template and to help promote your talk. Email info@earthwatch.org.uk if you’re interested.

partnerships Earthwatch is proud to collaborate with nearly 40 corporate partners around the world. We select companies that take their environmental responsibilities and performance seriously and are open to working constructively with us to benefit the environment and help us achieve our mission. To learn more, visit www. earthwatch.org/europe/corporate

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Find us on Facebook. Tweet on Twitter. Engage on Eons.

the big picture: journey round a photograph 5. Earthwatch volunteers and local people from Gazi Bay, who depend on the mangrove forests for wood products and fish habitat, have a great time working and learning together. To encourage the sustainable use of these resources, community involvement in this conservation project is essential. For more information visit www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/huxham.html

4. As well as the tree planting activities, teams monitor the experimental stands already established, in order to assess how the trees are growing and surviving, take faunal surveys, and measure the flux of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, from the sediment surface. The volunteers also determine the amounts of carbon deposited below-ground by different species of tree.

3. The plantation area is subdivided into two experimental blocks, each 140 square metres, separated from each other by 200 metres. Each block is divided into 16 plots of six square metres. The mangrove restoration grows three tree species in mixed and single stands. Research on the project has demonstrated that the grey mangrove (Avicennia marina) is a dominant species when replanted â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it grows vigorously, has a high survival rate, and also appears to facilitate growth and natural recruitment of other species, making it ideal for restoration efforts.

2. Mangroves suffer one of the fastest rates of destruction of any habitat â&#x20AC;&#x201C; about two per cent of global mangrove cover is lost annually, largely as a result of shrimp farming or unsustainable exploitation for firewood and building materials. Over the past 50 years, approximately one-third of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s original mangrove forests have been lost.

1. Volunteers help to replant an area of mangroves destroyed by El Ni単o weather patterns in Mwache, Kenya. Mangrove forests support a diversity of plant and animal species, and provide a variety of ecosystem services. Mangroves serve as a powerful, long-term carbon sink due to their high productivity and the long term stability of below-ground carbon stores (usually in the form of peat) that they develop. They can help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide in their roots and trunks, and also trap carbon rich sediments from the water, which add to their total carbon storage potential. This project aims to demonstrate how community-run plantations could generate payment for mangrove carbon credits in the future.

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joining a research project: what types of experiences can you expect?

The experience of a lifetime Joining an Earthwatch expedition, you’ll donate time and energy to a research or conservation project. Your financial contribution will cover the costs of your participation and support the scientists. With over 50 available projects, you could observe rhinos in Kenya, protect diamondback terrapins in America, track jaguars in Brazil, or help coffee farmers in Costa Rica become more sustainable.

You’ll be a research assistant, working with award-winning world class scientists in some of the most amazing parts of the world. You’ll make connections to the local community and perhaps even help sustainable ecotourism. You may work in areas accessible only to researchers, or experience the problematic proximity of the natural world to the built environment. Live, work, and eat like the scientists and put in long hours doing things you’ve never done before. Performing vital research in a unique, hands-on way can be wet and dirty, hot or cold. Share azure waters with leaping dolphins, hear the calls of rainforest monkeys, uncover remnants of ancient civilisations.

You don’t need any special skills or previous experience – except for a few water-based projects where snorkeling or diving is involved, and here you may need to be SCUBA trained. The scientists will teach you all you need to help with research and data collection. All you need to do is meet the physical demands of the research tasks and field sites.

You Yo might stay in a tent on an African wildlife rreserve or enjoy the luxury of Amazon riverboat, slee sleep in a college dormitory room, or rest in a hammock. You may eat h local delicacies in sit-down kitchens or trail sit-dow mix and fruit on a rainforest log. Research rainfores locations are on isolated mountaintops as well as near country in inns and formal hotels. You may have hot showers or a bucket of sh cold water, a private bathroom or a pit toilet. We provide the most comfortable facilities m available while m minimising environmental impact and the cost of participation.

As well as standard teams, we are now offering an excellent and expanding range of additional opportunities to suit your varying needs. We run short duration expeditions, lasting 3-5 days. We offer expeditions just for teenagers (teen teams, age limit 16-17 years). We can cater for families on some expeditions (family teams, lower age limit of 10 years) and we can organise special group teams (for 6-20 volunteers) for schools, colleges and universities, and other groups.

We usually have multiple expeditions happening happenin over the year on our research projects. projects Regular expeditions (standard teams) teams usually last from seven to 15 days, day not including travel to and from the rendezvous. You’ll work on teams usually re comprised of 4-15 volunteers, aged 18 and up. On some standard teams, volunteers as young as 16 can accompany a parent or guardian; there’s no upper age limit on standard teams, as long as volunteers are able to perform the required tasks. Many of the people you meet on your expedition may be repeat volunteers.

You could find yourself freeing a fossil from the soil or a bird from a mist net. You might interview farmers and ranchers. You could be using a gravity meter or a GPS unit, a pair of tweezers or a pair of high-powered binoculars. But whatever you’re doing, you’ll be making a difference.

Turn to the spread on page 41 for more information and a list (correct at time of press) of all our short duration, teen and family teams. Go online for the latest updates and additional expedition dates: www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions Turn over for an insight into a typical day on two of our projects, then read on for a guide to all Earthwatch projects, listed by research area: ecosystems, climate change, oceans and cultural heritage.

Earthwatch picture show: watch videos from our projects

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the experience of a lifetime

Go to www.youtube.com/EarthwatchInstitute

5:30am Blue and gold sunrise “A small group of us head out through the dark and foggy morning to our first observation point. As we wait, the sun begins its rise through the mist, bathing the forest in a soft, long morning light. Grey and pink river dolphins swim alongside our boat, playing and jumping, and around us the birds are active along the river: kingfishers, toucans, wading birds, herons, cormorants and egrets. A flock of 20 macaws pass above us, vivid against the gentle light. Their squawks are a call for action, and we quickly record their number and species: scarlet, chestnut fronted, redbellied or, most commonly, blue and gold macaws.” Dr Richard Bodmer Lead scientist

Macaw surveys: Populations of the larger species of macaw have recovered significantly over the past few years, reflecting a reduction in the capture of the birds for the pet trade. Macaws are viewed as an indicator species; data about their populations are being used to assess the general health of the forest ecosystem.

11:15am Piranha! “We were fishing using little bits of meat attached to hooks. You drop the hook into the river and suddenly the water is seething with life. When you pull in the line, the meat has gone, so you do it again. Again things swarm unseen in the murky water and this time, when you pull in the line, the hook has gone. A third time, and suddenly there’s a piranha gnashing and flapping in the bottom of the boat and everyone’s getting out the way!” Hong Quan Volunteer

Net and line fish surveys: These offer guidance on the density and variety of the Amazon’s economically important fish populations.

1:00pm Community action “A highlight for me was visiting a Cocama community on the fringes of the reserve. Approaching the village – a collection of wooden huts standing out against the lush green forest backdrop – we could see everyone going about their daily life in routines that were probably unchanged over many generations: a village elder with a boat full of fruit and vegetables, a young boy spearing a fish right before our eyes… Later, everyone in the village gathered in the tiny school

house to discuss our research findings and that felt very rewarding. They were all so welcoming and even did a traditional dance in our honour.’

is impossible to describe that sense of being so intensely alive and at one with this exotic yet unfamiliar environment.” Jaroen Kuijper Volunteer

Charlotte Gale Volunteer

Engaging local communities: All volunteers have the opportunity to visit local villages. Engaging local communities with research is vital to a sustainable future for the Amazon; more inclusive conservation strategies over the past 15 years has boosted wildlife populations.

Biodiversity: The biodiversity of the Amazon is overwhelming. Terrestrial transects take volunteers deep into the forest to take notes on the frequency of encounters with key indicator species, including various monkey species, tapir, bush pig, brocket deer, partridge, and the loud piping guan. Though only very rarely seen, the jaguar is never far away.

2:30pm Wolves of the Amazon “Walking through the forest along the shores of Lake Puenfin, the guide stops and points. Two glossy giant river otters swim slowly past. Excited, we follow, but are stopped short by a sudden loud barking: it’s a warning from the male otter. They swim back past us, and actually toward us, baring their teeth in defiance, before swimming back up to the point where we first saw them. A few minutes later, having decided we were not a threat, these beautiful animals, which the Spanish call los lobos del rio or river wolves, started fishing and actually eating fish right in front of us. Unforgettable.” Andy Miller Volunteer

Risk of extinction: Extensive hunting in the twentieth century drastically depleted giant river otter populations, and they currently face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Volunteer surveys are vital to measure the success of current conservation initiatives.

4:15pm In the land of the jaguar “Walking in the forest, it felt like there were no animals here, but when we stopped to take measurements we realised why: distances of just a few yards risked obscuring you from view! We walked slowly and quietly, all the time listening and trying to see beyond the layers of dense green. The highlights were unforgettable: incredibly huge, vine-covered trunks, sudden bright forest flowers, the loud cries of howler monkeys or birds flying overhead. Better still was the feeling we got when, after noticing moving branches, we saw a group of 20-30 spider monkeys moving above us – long-limbed and long-tailed, with small bellies and small, almost catlike heads, with babies clinging to the mothers. It

5:00pm Where dolphins play “I’d read about river dolphins a year before the expedition and was immediately enthralled. The idea of pink dolphins swimming through a flooded forest seemed incredibly magical, and surveying these creatures in their natural habitat proved to be a wonderful experience... Once in location, we switched off the engine and waited. Sure enough, they appeared: I’ll never forget the shushing sound – like steam – of their blow holes. These are secretive creatures, only once did I see one jump out of the water. But it was more than enough to catch a glimpse of their pink bodies gliding past in the water, watching them play around the boat, and to know that they had come to us, and that we were helping to preserve their future.” Sarah Wilson Volunteer

Taboos: River dolphins are not hunted by the local fishermen, thanks to strong local taboos. Statistics on fresh water dolphin populations are therefore extremely useful in helping scientists to understand the bigger picture of the Amazon River ecosystem. Large mammal populations are usually the first to suffer when there are problems with the food chain.

6:30pm Supper onboard “After a shower to wash off the jungle, the team has supper. The chef maintains an extraordinarily excellent kitchen. And as for the boat itself, you have to see it to believe it! The polished wood skirting and furniture, the shining brass, the mahogany bar and swabbed white decks. You truly feel like you’ve gone back in time…” Paul Prescott Volunteer

The riverboats: The accommodation vessels include The Apuyua, a refurbished rubber-boom boat dating back to the 1890s, and the The Clavero, a restored 19th century Peruvian naval mail delivery vessel, which runs in the cooler season. Immaculately maintained, these riverboats add a unique historic and cultural dimension to this project.

10:45pm See you later, alligator “I chose to do the caiman surveys every night. This involved sitting on a small boat, late into the dark night, surrounded by a vast emptiness of the flooded Amazon. It was a truly incredible experience. Only the sounds of frogs and insects disturbed the silence; only my spotlight disturbed the blackness, scanning the water’s edge until, finally, two orange marbles would appear in its glare, hovering above the surface of the water. Then I would suddenly find myself part of a motivated team, struggling to keep the caiman in the spotlight as the others carefully brought the boat closer and closer, for the final exciting haulingin, analysis and re-release.”

amazon riverboat exploration Volunteers on our Amazon Riverboat Exploration project participate in a broad range of activities which will assist in the conservation of this magnificent, threatened ecosystem. Our lead scientist on the project and some past volunteers provide insights into their experiences of the Amazonian wildlife and communities that can form a day in the life of the project.

Rated number one conservation experience – BBC Wildlife magazine (see page 25)

Paul Prescott Volunteer

Overhunting: The hide of black caiman – a very large crocodilian species – carried a substantial commercial value during the 1950s to the 1970s, leading to extensive overhunting. Earthwatch research shows populations are now recovering along the Samiria River.

a river runs through it For more information on how you can be part of this amazing experience visit: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/bodmer.html www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/bodmer_clavero.html

land of the blue skies wildlife of the mongolian steppe Our Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe project is located in the stunning Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, a rich and varied ecosystem. Research activities focusing on various threatened species, combined with a fascinating local culture, contribute to the many experiences that our lead scientist and volunteers can expect to encounter during a day in the life of the project.

6:00am One giant Steppe

11:40am Counting sheep

4:20pm A flying visit

“I wake before the sun has risen. We are working with wildlife in one of the world’s last great wildernesses. I have a great team of hard-working Earthwatch volunteers and Mongolian students, and today we rise early to check two grids of small mammal traps we baited last night. It’s just about freezing, and cloudless, portending another day of rapid warming under an almost painfully blue sky. It turns out we get a bumper crop of jerboas (two species of large, kangaroo rat-like rodents) with some dwarf hamsters and gerbils thrown in to keep things interesting.”

“A group of us are tracking argali sheep with a view to catching a new-born lamb. For about the first 48-72 hours of life, the argali’s reaction to danger will be to lie down rather than run. Observing with binoculars, we spot a family group. As we descend into the valley, one ewe behaved differently, not fleeing with the flock, she’s protecting her lamb! Within 20 minutes her lamb was duly measured, weighed and tagged, and fitted with a radio collar before being reunited with its mother.”

“We are checking nest success rates for vultures. We classify them as ‘chick,’ ‘incubating,’ ‘empty,’ or ‘destroyed’. An incubating bird will lie flat in the nest to avoid being seen so we have to watch carefully for a while through binoculars. If there is a chick, the adult will occasionally stand up to cool the chick down. We prefer not to approach the nests with adults and chicks in them – Mongolia’s winds are often very cold, and a chick or embryo could die from exposure if the parent is barred from the nest for too long. We want to be as efficient as possible, so two of us sprint towards the nest, see what is inside, and run back to the van to report the results.”

Rich Reading Lead scientist

The teams survey prey species, including small mammals, lizards and invertebrates. For five years, Earthwatch teams have worked to study and conserve the area’s wildlife, and the research is shedding light on the ecology of the entire plant and animal community of Ikh Nart, a prerequisite to effective ecosystem management and conservation.

Donald Jackson Volunteer

Less than half of all argali lambs survive their first month at Ikh Nart. The team is studying the survival and mortality of the lambs in order to understand the species’ ecology. Predation and starvation were found to be the most significant causes of death. However, it was also ascertained that lambs born later in the year enjoyed a significantly higher survival in their first month.

2:55pm Net results 9:05am Raptors! “We set out to attach a radio transmitter to a vulture – no easy task. These huge birds are very wary, but we have the right bait and it doesn’t even smell (too) bad. Eventually we get our bird. Rushing up, we quickly hood the vulture to calm her, and remove the foot snare. After the difficult process of putting on the transmitter, we measure, tag, and weigh the animal. It takes several people to perform these tasks as the birds are strong with over 3m (10ft) wingspans and razor-sharp bills. We pull off the hood, and after a few running steps with beating wings, the bird takes flight. We all cheer.” Rich Reading & Emma Fowler Volunteer

Tagging and tracking shows that the threatened cinereous or Eurasian black vulture (Aegypius monachus) migrates up to 12,000 miles away from its homelands. These data will contribute to understanding the bird’s behaviour and help Earthwatch scientists and conservation decision-makers to better protect the species. The team’s efforts have led directly to the Ikh Nart Reserve’s designation as an Important Bird Area in Mongolia.

“The grassy valley ends in a sort of T junction with rocks rising up on either side – an ideal place for the herdsmen to corral the argali sheep for trapping and releasing. Large nets and eight-foot poles are already dumped and waiting for us. We set about balancing the poles and linking the nets for almost a quarter of a mile. The poles were very splintery so we all wear work gloves. It takes all afternoon – tiring, sweaty, but exhilarating and rewarding work.” Clare Arends Volunteer

Argali, the largest mountain sheep in the world, are listed as ‘Near Threatened’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (www. iucnredlist.org). Research suggests that argali population declines primarily as a result of poaching and conflicts with domestic livestock production. Data have been used to inform the IUCN’s status review of the Caprinae family (wild sheep and goats). The Earthwatch research team participated directly in a review for Mongolian mammals and in the drafting of an Action Plan for endangered and threatened species identified by that review.

Hilary Harrington Volunteer

Nesting success rates have been nearly identical for cinereous vulture nests located in trees compared with nests on rocky outcrops. These results are surprising in that they do not illustrate a predicted, lower success rates for pairs that nested in rocky outcrops, as most of these nests are easily accessible by ground predators such as wolf, lynx or fox. This mystery is the subject of ongoing research and analysis.

9:35pm Solar nights “Back at camp we take solar showers before our cook demands our presence at her sumptuous feast (when Tsomoo tells you to eat, you eat!). We trade stories with our Mongolian colleagues and other volunteers about the day, before inputting data (and blogging) on our solar-powered computer.” Rich Reading

Team members share quarters in traditional Mongolian gers – also known as yurts – cosy and colourful oases from the vast Steppe, or in smaller camping tents. Project staff endeavour to hold one ceremonial Mongolian barbeque for each team, and in the evenings there are usually games of Mongolian cards that can get quite spirited!

For more information on how you can be part of this amazing experience visit the expedition web-page: www. earthwatch.org/europe/exped/ reading.html

ecosystems

samburu communities and wildlife Work with the Samburu people of Kenya as they use their rich cultural traditions and expertise to protect biodiversity and promote sustainable economies.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I felt the balance between the Earthwatch research and the interaction with the Samburu community was incredibly well managed, thanks to the research and domestic arrangements, staff, and to the generosity of the local people.â&#x20AC;? Judith Mason volunteer

Kenya is famous for its abundant wildlife and inviting savannahs, vast grassland spaces backed by impressive mountains. The Samburu people, traditionally nomadic pastoralists, have co-existed with wildlife for centuries, but growing human populations and new settlement patterns put both people and wildlife at risk. In this biologically diverse and culturally rich region, scientific research will help the Samburu people adapt to change. We have run several research programmes over the years in this unique ecosystem. Our current projects include:

Grevy’s Zebras are an endangered species, but you can help. We’ll teach you to use zebras’ individual markings to monitor population size and help protect the species.

Some results from our Ecosystems research projects: Saving Kenya’s Endangered Zebras

Medicinal Plants

The Samburu region is among the last strongholds for the endangered Grevy’s zebra. With Dr Paul Muoria and Dr Nicholas Oguge you’ll count and photograph these beautiful animals to monitor population size, structure, and distribution. You’ll record GPS locations, activities, and other details of livestock, people, and wildlife you observe to complete your surveys. The data you collect will be shared with NGOs such as the African Wildlife Foundation and with the Samburu community, to improve management practices in reserves and in the unprotected community lands.

The Samburu people have long used plants as medicines, and maintaining this traditional knowledge is crucial. You’ll help Dr Callistus Ogol, Dr Paul Okemo, and Dr Isaiah Ndiege work with local communities to identify medicinal plants, document their uses, and even investigate whether some could purify water for drinking, a huge need in this arid land. You’ll also help identify and collect plants in the field, determine their abundance and distribution, and process them by tagging, pressing, and drying. The information you collect will help local resource managers plan for the sustainable use of medicinal plants.

Go online: Expedition webpage: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/samburu.html Scientist training (Capacity Development) case study from Samburu: www.earthwatch.org/europe/cbp-samburu062009 Day in the life of Dr Nicholas Oguge: www.earthwatch.org/europe/blog_oguge

Several Park Authorities in South Africa have approached our research team to expand their surveys in order to provide more information on brown hyaena for conservation action. It is hoped research on the species’ genetics will help scientists understand the viability of the hyaena populations inside protected areas, and what additional action is needed in ensuring their survival. Find out more about our South Africa’s Brown Hyaenas project on page 23 Video data on the nesting habits of scarlet macaws at the Tambopata Research Centre in the Peruvian Amazon will be used to document the interactions between parent macaws and siblings in order to aid conservation plans. Find out more about our Macaws of the Peruvian Amazon project on page 21

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Amazon Riverboat Exploration Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve, Peru – The Amazonian forests shelter an incredible diversity of wildlife, yet in other parts of South America, changes in habitat due to factors including agricultural and industrial development have caused many species to become locally extinct. Why you’re needed – You’ll help Dr Richard Bodmer assess threats and

Birds, Biodiversity and Biking in Provence Provence, France – Conservationists are monitoring populations of the European roller bird (Coracias garrulous), and evaluating the impact of current conservation measures. By demonstrating the consequences of different approaches to farm and river management, the project aims to improve local awareness of the area’s rich, but fragile, natural heritage.

Why you’re needed – Volunteers play a crucial role in assessing bird populations and habitats. Cycling from site to site, you’ll assist Muriel Gervais’ research by conducting biological transects, monitoring nest boxes, sweep-netting for insects, measuring plants and weighing birds, as well as analysing videos of bird behaviour.

Ankarafantsika National Park, Madagascar – The fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox), the largest of Madagascar’s nine carnivore species, is a keystone predator within Madagascar’s forest ecosystem. Research into fossa habitat and distribution will help identify threats from deforestation and human persecution. Why you’re needed – Dr Luke Dollar, Leon

Eland’s Joy, Namibia – Persecution and habitat loss have depleted cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) populations across Africa and Asia. These cats are most numerous in Namibia, but 95 per cent of Namibia’s cheetahs live on farmland and are viewed as unwelcome predators. Why you’re needed – Dr Laurie Marker is working to secure the long-term survival of

develop sustainable management strategies. Activities include boat-based surveys for river dolphin, caiman and macaws, and land surveys of peccaries, monkeys, and birds. Involvement of the indigenous Amazonian people is an important aspect of this valuable project, which offers two accommodation options via two large riverboats with varying amenities.

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Carnivores of Madagascar

Cheetah

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Pierrot Rahajanirina, and Dr Julie Pomerantz are charting Madagascar’s fossa populations, developing valuable datasets for research programmes and conservation management planning. You’ll assist in the capture and measurement of fossa and other carnivores to obtain anatomical and physiological information, mortality rates, as well as radio-tracking movement patterns.

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the cheetah. Her research into their ecology and habitat use embraces key conservation issues. Dr Marker’s research is identifying areas of human-animal conflict and developing approaches to livestock management which minimise this conflict. You’ll assist with game counts, vegetation transects, spoor tracking, rearing guard dogs and caring for rescued cheetahs.

Costa Rican Coffee From Community to Cup Tarrazú Valley, Costa Rica – Intensive farming practices are proving unsustainable for the coffee growers in Costa Rica. Coffee yields are falling; the environment is being eroded. This project aims to understand the practices that will lead to more sustainable coffee production, resulting in higher quality and yield, as well as effective land-management. Looking for flights? Try www.flyforgood.com

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Why you’re needed – Activities include assisting Dr John E Banks, Dr Mark Chandler, Sebastián Castro Tanzi and Natalia Urena Retana in collecting data on soil conditions, shade tree coverage, erosion, and plant yield. Sample coffee plants, map biodiversity and help determine the factors that affect farms’ sustainability.

+44 (0)1865 318831

Diamondback Terrapins of Barnegat Bay

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New Jersey, USA – The diamondback terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) inhabits estuaries, tidal creeks, and salt marshes within the United States. However, populations have been severely depleted by land development and other human impacts along the Atlantic coast. Why you’re needed – With Drs Hal Avery,

Jim Spotila, Walter Bien and Ed Standora, you’ll research terrapin nesting ecology and habitat use to help improve management of the regions ecosystem, providing a model for the conservation of marine estuary ecosystems worldwide. You’ll work from a boat to capture, tag, release and track terrapins. You’ll also monitor nests and collect data to determine preferred habitat.

Elephants of Tsavo Tsavo East and West National Parks, Kenya – The Tsavo Conservation Area harbours Kenya’s largest population of more than 10,000 African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Fragmentation of the species’ original range has disrupted traditional migration routes, leading to increased human-elephant conflict. Why you’re needed – The Kenya Wildlife

Geology and the Shaping of the American Southwest

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Service needs accurate information on seasonal movements of elephants in order to ensure they have safe access to key dispersal areas without threatening local communities and their crops. With Drs Barbara McKnight and Samuel Kasiki, you’ll monitor elephant populations, ranging patterns, resource use and behaviour. These data will help managers and landowners make decisions on wildlife corridors, fencing, and water development.

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New Mexico and Colorado, USA – Tectonic plates and ancient volcanoes alike brought the Rio Grande Rift into being. These powerful forces determine water flow in the region, shaping how we inhabit it. Why you’re needed – Investigations by Dr Aviva Sussman and colleagues have critical implications for water use and other

ecosystem management issues, showing how the Rift may respond to climate change. Volunteers conduct soil studies, collect rock samples, and carry out water flow analyses to yield data on how to manage water supplies, especially in light of potential industrial pollution.

Macaws of the Peruvian Amazon

Tambopata Reserve, Peru – The survival of Peru’s brilliantly coloured macaws is under threat. Unregulated ecotourism and illegal animal trade is increasing pressure on populations already suffering due to loss of natural habitat. Why you’re needed – With Alan Lee and Dr Don Brightsmith, you’ll monitor the

Mammoth Graveyard

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ecology of macaws to mitigate the effects of environmental change and human activity. Travelling by boat and hiking through tropical rainforest, you’ll visit clay-lick sites, monitor activity and breeding success at artificial and natural nesting sites, and take notes on nest activity using infrared cameras.

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South Dakota, USA – Fossil remains from more than 50 mammoths have been extracted from this former deadly sinkhole. Help Dr Larry Agenbroad excavate their bones and discover more about mammal evolution during the last Ice Age. Why you’re needed – Working with field staff, you’ll excavate, record, and preserve

bone fragments. You’ll learn how to map your finds on a computer, how to determine an animal’s age by its teeth and how to apply this to death assemblage analyses. You’ll also share your knowledge with the many visitors to the site, now a museum and a National Natural Landmark thanks to the project.

Looking for gear? Visit http://earthwatch.newheadings.com

www.earthwatch.org/europe

Mapping Change in California’s Mountains

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California, USA – The protected landscape of the San Jacinto Mountains depends heavily on citizens and scientists working together to protect its many natural and cultural resources. More knowledge is needed to understand how the area is responding to development and climate change. Why you’re needed – With Rusty Russell,

you’ll hike several miles each day, using the latest technology to record precise location data on plant species. You’ll help determine the potential effects of current and future management policies on the overall health of this ecosystem. Your work will be used to document plant cover change and inform future land management policies for the region.

Meerkats of the Kalahari

Kuruman River Reserve, South Africa – Recent studies question the theory that cooperative breeding – whereby animals help others raise their young – benefits related animals by ensuring shared genes are passed on in the young. Why you’re needed – With Dr Timothy Clutton-Brock, you’ll be helping to explore

Mountain Waters of the Czech Republic

Why you’re needed – You’ll help Dr Josef Krecek and Zuzana Horicka to gain a wider understanding of issues surrounding the rehabilitation of mountain and freshwater ecosystems. Activities include water, river fauna and vegetation sampling, evaluating tree and soil health, and studying erosion and plant succession.

New York City Wildlife New York City and environs, USA – With more than 50 per cent of the world’s population living in cities, understanding the health of the urban environment is vital. New York’s five boroughs harbour numerous mammals and reptiles, as well as over 250 bird species. In the greater metropolitan area, biodiversity is even more extensive.

Patillas, Puerto Rico – Most of the mature rainforests in Puerto Rico during the last few centuries have been converted to agriculture. Expansion of coffee plantations and pastures has had devastating consequences for biodiversity, while a lack of sustainable conservation practice is impacting the local economy. Why you’re needed – Working with Dr

cooperative breeding behaviour in meerkat (Suricata suricatta) populations. You’ll conduct focal sampling of meerkat habitat use and feeding behaviour, walk line transects to monitor plant and animal species, use GPS technology, and collect data such as feeding rate, weight of meerkats and climatic variations. You’ll also investigate interactions between meerkats and other wildlife.

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Jizera Mountains, Czech Republic – The Jizera Mountains lie within Europe’s “black triangle”, a region devastated by air pollution and acid rain. By 1989, acid rain from coal-fired power plants had damaged two-thirds of the Jizera’s forests; mountain streams – flowing past dead and dying trees – had been without fish for 40 years.

Puerto Rico’s Rainforest

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Why you’re needed – Dr Catherine Burns’ research aims to identify the long and short term impacts of land-use change, and other urban pressures on key species to influence protective development strategies. You’ll track and camera-trap live mammals, and carry out bird surveys, capturing and releasing amphibians, water sampling, and plant identification.

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Mark Nelson, project director Thrity Vakil, and research staff, you’ll help find ways for communities to sustainably restore and profit from local rainforests. You’ll monitor the rainforest ecosystem by measuring trees, counting lizards and frogs, tagging and identifying vine species, and setting up experimental plots for tree and shrub species. Project work involves hiking up steep terrain. Looking for dates and prices? Unfold the back cover

+44 (0)1865 318831

Saving Kenya’s Black Rhinos

Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya – Over the past 40 years, poaching has reduced Kenya’s population of black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) from 20,000 to a mere 539. Patrolled, fenced-in sanctuaries have offered some protection, but the success of breeding programmes has had varied results.

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Why you’re needed – Volunteers will help Dr Geoffrey Wahungu explore the ecology of rhino habitat in the Conservancy, including broad surveys of the region’s plants and other wildlife. You’ll discover how interactions with other wildlife and damage to local vegetation are affecting not only the rhino population but also the larger dynamics of the Conservancy.

Songbirds of the Rocky Mountains Wyoming, USA – Studies have shown that the numbers of both resident and migratory songbirds have declined in the past 30 years. Join research teams investigating this issue in the majestic Grand Teton National Park. Why you’re needed – Embere Hall and Dale Gentry are monitoring songbirds throughout Grand Teton National Park and

South Africa’s Brown Hyaenas Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa – The commonly persecuted brown hyaena (Hyaena brunnea) is an intelligent, social mammal, whose scavenging may be instrumental in preventing disease outbreaks. Populations are thought to be in decline due to competition from newly introduced spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta), and conflicts with humans.

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Bridger-Teton National Forest, both parts of the Greater Yellowstone geo-ecosystem. They hope to understand how songbirds use various habitats, and identify the cause of population declines. You’ll search for nests and relocate colour-banded birds, providing much-needed information on seasonal survival and productivity.

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Why you’re needed – Dr Dawn Scott is developing guidelines and training to promote human-wildlife coexistence, working with South African farmers to change their attitudes toward hyaena. You’ll monitor hyaena using camera traps and conducting wildlife surveys. You’ll also participate in vehicle-based night-time surveys, using sound recordings to attract carnivores for observation.

Tracking Brazil’s Elusive Jaguars Emas National Park, Brazil – Most of the Cerrado, South America’s largest savannah, has been converted to crop fields and the remaining conserved land cannot support healthy populations of most of the region’s large carnivores, including maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) and jaguar (Panthera onca).

Volcano

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Why you’re needed – Dr Leandro Silveira and Anah Jácomo radio-track previously collared jaguars and record signal locations to discover habits and needs. You’ll help investigate prey populations and you may choose to work with trained dogs to search for and analyze jaguar scat and kills to determine diet. You’ll assist with cameratrapping, some image analysis, data input, and data processing.

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Masaya and Telica volcanoes, Nicaragua – In many areas, volcanic activity takes the form of constant or frequent low level emissions of sulphur dioxide and other pollutant gases. How these affect local environments and communities is still unclear. Why you’re needed – Drs Hazel Rymer, Mike Gillman, and Glyn Williams-Jones are

developing a detailed understanding of volcanic pollutants, examining their environmental and ecological impacts. Hiking up and down steep volcanic inclines, you’ll use sophisticated equipment to measure gas output and sub-surface magma movements. Other tasks include testing soil and water for contamination and conducting vegetation surveys.

Need more info? Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions

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Walking with African Wildlife Hluhluwe-imfolozi Park, South Africa – Large animals in Africa are under increasing threat from, among other things, poaching and an expanding human population. An important contribution to these species’ conservation can be made by informed and appropriate ecological management of conservation areas.

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Why you’re needed – You’ll assist Dr Dave Druce by walking long distances through savannah and forest, surveying herbivore populations including giraffe, zebra, elephant and rhino. You’ll collect data, and will be trained to use a magnetic compass, GPS and electronic range finders. Also included is a crash-course in Zulu.

Wildlife and Wine in Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France – Dr Maarten van Helden and Josepha Guenser are hoping to identify which farming practices are best for enhancing and maintaining biodiversity in French vineyards. He is also investigating techniques in viticulture for reducing soil erosion and the risks of fertilizer and pesticide pollution to biodiversity.

Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe Ikh Nart Nature Reserve, Mongolia – Many of Mongolia’s species are under threat from poaching and habitat destruction, while poverty and social change have led to huge increases in domestic herds and degradation of important pasturelands. Why you’re needed – Dr Rich Reading, Ganchimeg Wingard, and Sukhiin Amgalanbaatar, an international team

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Why you’re needed – You’ll help test and improve current viticulture methods, and help researchers gather data to provide feedback to farmers on how farming practices could be modified to benefit surrounding wildlife. You’ll sample insects and plants and identify them in the laboratory.

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of scientists, are working to collect data on a variety of little-studied species, and investigating the impact of human activity on their populations. Activities include capturing, radio-collaring, and radiotracking animal species such as argali sheep, locating and monitoring vulture nests, and related vegetation and small mammal surveys.

volunteer profile Moria Robinson – recipient of an Earthwatch Student Challenge Awards Programme (SCAP) Fellowship* It’s a regrettably safe bet there aren’t many college-aged parasitoid enthusiasts. Moria Robinson, studying biology and conservation photojournalism in Vermont, USA, aims to change that. Moria – a butterfly enthusiast from childhood – applied for an Earthwatch SCAP Fellowship and found herself on assignment studying desert caterpillars in Arizona on our Climate Change and Caterpillars project. Moria worked on a student team helping Dr Lee Dyer collect data on caterpillars’ favoured plants, their

predators (including parasitic species such as wasps and flies), and their defences against them. Catching the bug (literally!) for field research, Moria deferred college in order to study on another Climate Change and Caterpillars field site, this time in Costa Rica, and continues to work with one of the scientists, Dr David Wagner, at the University of Connecticut during her summer breaks. Inspired by her transformation from butterfly catcher to experienced field researcher, Moria is determined to share the beauty of Lepidoptera. She’s already landed a cover-featured article in Johns Hopkins University’s prestigious Imagine magazine. Moria is staring to spread her new wings.

Looking for flights? Try www.flyforgood.com

Opportunities for students: www.earthwatch.org/europe/ young_people www.earthwatch.org/europe/ exped_teen_family

high praise for earthwatch Earthwatch scored higher than any other international wildlife and conservation volunteering organisation in an assessment carried out in 2009’s Wildlife and Conservation Volunteering: The Complete Guide, from award-winning travel guide publisher Bradt. The Guide is the first of its kind to use a strict scoring system, allowing readers to compare 50 organisations. Earthwatch earned maximum scores for demonstrable achievements – the most important measure of success for our environmental research. The world’s best-selling natural history and environmental magazine, BBC Wildlife, rated Earthwatch’s expedition, Amazon Riverboat Exploration (see our day in the life spread on pages 14 and 15) as the number one choice in a feature about the top ten conservation excursions in 2009. Earthwatch’s Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides expedition (see page 33) was rated at number three on the list. National Geographic Society’s Adventure magazine has named Earthwatch as its top-rated volunteer expedition organization for the last two years, in global surveys which have included almost 50 organisations. Earthwatch is also the only organisation Adventure has given a 100/100 score in the Education category. Earthwatch has been voted a top five environmental organisation for corporate partnerships in the UN Global Compact/Dalberg Global Development Advisors survey published in the Financial Times.

The identification and calculation of animal droppings is vital to the collection of baseline data, allowing scientists and volunteers to estimate local wildlife populations.

climate change

mammals of nova scotia Monitoring mammal populations to determine the impacts of climate change and other environmental challenges.

“Chris and Christina were fantastic – they would always explain the science and reasoning behind all the tasks we were carrying out – and were excellent company, creating a real team spirit.” Natasha Leeson volunteer

The South Shore region of Nova Scotia is a spectacular peninsula of forested wilderness on Canada’s Atlantic Coast. Fewer than one million people live here, and a rich tapestry of species inhabits its vast forests, hills and varied coastlines. But the area’s biological diversity is the product of delicately balanced environmental conditions, and rapid climate change and human activity are already destabilising this fragile ecosystem. There is an urgent need to understand the effects of this change so that strategies can be developed to help species adapt.

Some results from our Climate Change research projects:

Why you’re needed Research by Drs Christina Buesching and Chris Newman, of Oxford University’s Wildlife Conservation Research Unit, is creating a clearer picture of the effects of changes in the South Shore ecosystem. Animal, plant and meteorological surveys are addressing vital questions about environmental change in the area. For example, the team is studying how climate change may alter seed crops and exploring the potential impacts on populations of rodents, hares and their predators, both mammalian carnivores and raptors. They are investigating how milder winters might affect hibernating species, and how longer summers could disrupt the competitive balance between

species such as moose and whitetailed deer. In addition to creating local conservation initiatives, the scientists are collaborating with experts worldwide to share knowledge and synthesise ideas to find answers to these questions. Volunteers monitor animal behavior and locate dens and trails, set camera traps to observe coyote or bear, and establish trapping grids to sample rodents. You’ll count deer and snowshoe hare droppings to estimate population densities and habitat preferences, and assist with meteorological surveys.

Go online: Expedition web page: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/buesching.html Teen team available: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/buesching_teen.html Expedition blog: www.earthwatch.org/europe/blog_rodgers0409 Call +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit our website for more information: www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions

Experiments in the Seychelles have demonstrated that reef building coral species have very different tolerances to climate change. Results of the research show that the greater the diversity of the reef ecosystem, the more chance it will tolerate and adapt to future rapid climate change. Find out more about our Coral and Coastal Ecology of the Seychelles project on page 34 Research conducted by Dr Peter Kershaw and Earthwatch volunteers in northern Canada has found evidence for a vicious cycle of land subsidence which has serious global consequences and major implications for climate change forecasting. As permafrost melts, peat decomposes, releasing into the atmosphere huge quantities of carbon dioxide and methane. These greenhouse gases feed further global warming, accelerating permafrost melt. Find out more about our Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge project on page 28

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Climate Change and Caterpillars

Costa Rica, Ecuador and USA – Caterpillars have a profound influence on the ecosystems they inhabit. In many forests, caterpillars eat more leaves than all other herbivores combined, and play a key role in promoting plant biodiversity. Why you’re needed – Dr Lee Dyer is conducting groundbreaking investigations

Climate Change and Chesapeake Bay Forests

into how climate change may impact caterpillars and their ecosystems, as well as surveying the parasitic wasps and flies (parasitoids) that help control caterpillar populations. Assisting with this research, you will collect and rear caterpillars, analysing their feeding behaviour and response to parasitism.

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Chesapeake Bay, USA – Forests are home to more species and store more carbon than any other land-based habitat. These ecosystems are central to the wellbeing of human beings and all living organisms, although they currently face increasing threats from exploitation and climate change. Why you’re needed – As part of a global

research programme, Dr Geoffrey Parker and team are investigating how human disturbances and climate affect forests. Activities include establishing sample plots in different forests; measuring, identifying, mapping and tagging trees; and collecting climate data. The information you collect will be incorporated into forest management plans.

Climate Change and Landscape in Borneo’s Rainforest Danum Valley, Malaysian Borneo – The rainforests of Borneo are critically important to the region’s biodiversity, providing essential soil stabilisation and carbon storage. They are threatened by unsustainable logging practices and climate change, and there is concern that current forest restoration programmes may be having a detrimental impact on the ecosystem.

Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge

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Why you’re needed – Trek deep into Borneo’s tropical rainforest to identify how key plant and animal groups have been impacted by fragmentation and logging. You’ll take rainfall measurements and use techniques to assess soil moisture, and you’ll establish plots and transects to gauge the presence and density of seedlings.

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Manitoba or Mackenzie Mountains, Canada – This vast region holds approximately 20 per cent of the world’s naturally stored carbon, usually locked away in permafrost. Global warming is causing the release of various greenhouse gasses, through melting, potentially accelerating climate change. Why you’re needed – Helping Dr Peter

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Kershaw’s research will include monitoring changes affecting the gases stored in these peat-rich ecosystems, evaluating tree growth and plant development. You’ll also trap and release small mammals. February teams measure and assess the snowpack and classify ice crystals. The Mackenzie Mountain team works at high altitude taking permafrost and vegetation measurements.

Climate Change, Canopies and Wildlife Santa Lucia Reserve, Ecuador – The distribution of many species in the Tropical Andes has been dramatically reduced by habitat loss and hunting. Climate change may further impact large mammal populations by undermining the specialised plants they feed on. Why you’re needed – Dr Mika Peck is monitoring populations of large mammals

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to help determine whether existing areas offer sufficient protection in the face of climate change. You’ll hike through mountainous terrain to set up camera traps, identify tracks, conduct wildlife surveys, and collect and prepare botanical samples. Aerial canopy studies are also carried out using images collected via a small remotecontrolled helicopter.

Looking for dates and prices? Unfold the back cover

+44 (0)1865 318831

Tidal Forests of Kenya Gazi Bay, Kenya – Mangrove forests are among the most productive wetland ecosystems on Earth, providing crucial habitat, interacting with coral reefs, and playing a critical role in protecting coastlines. Why you’re needed – As part of a global effort to replant and restore degraded and removed mangroves, Drs Mark Huxham, James Kairo, and Martin Skov are

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working with the Gazi village community to experiment with and assess replanted mangrove ecosystems. Their research is providing significant data on the potential of mangroves to act as carbon sinks, and may boost local fishing stocks. You’ll plant seedlings and monitor plant growth and beach erosion in new mangrove plantations.

volunteer profile Dan Gasteazoro and Pete Pembroke – Live From the Field teacher fellows Earthwatch’s Education Fellowships allow educators of all kinds to take part in important field research, connect with peers, and, through powerful and interactive programmes like Live From the Field, share their experiences with thousands of students. Pete Pembroke is known around his school in California, USA, for his novel teaching methods – inventively merging his passion for extreme sports with his maths and science classes. Minnesota-based teacher Dan Gasteazoro also has a unique approach to education, probably because he’s let apples rot in the classroom for an experiment and creates “kindness boomerangs” promoting

good deeds. Thanks to funding from Wells Fargo, both of these life-long environmentalists were able to meet, joining a team of educators on our Mammals of Nova Scotia expedition as part of the Earthwatch Live From the Field programme. They conducted small mammal sampling, learning to handle, measure, weigh, sex and tag captured specimens before releasing them. They also learned how to tell a muskrat from a beaver at a distance – it’s all in the tail. They took notes on various focal species, performed numerous biological transects, and spent an astonishing amount of time braving the undergrowth on scat surveys (collecting animal droppings!). Results from this – and other surveying – are helping to produce overall, ongoing

assessments for species populations in the region. Through Internet blogging, videoconferencing on Skype and iChat, and posting videos taken with flipcams on YouTube, they and the other teachers on their team kept more than 1,300 students involved in these experiences. Working together, they answered questions that arose from what they reported and let the students themselves feel they were participating in the expedition. Opportunities for educators: www.earthwatch.org/europe/ educators Opportunities for students: www.earthwatch.org/europe/ young_people

Need more info? Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions

www.earthwatch.org/europe

heroes for the planet ecosystems

climate change

RAHAJANIRINA Léon Pierrot: Carnivores of Madagascar

Dr Peter Kershaw: Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge

Seven of the nine species of carnivore found on Madagascar appear nowhere else in the world. The largest mammalian carnivore on this unique island is the fossa (Cryptoprocta ferox). Despite its place of extreme importance within the ecosystem it inhabits, we are still learning important details about fossa behaviour and distribution. The conservation status of this elusive predator has recently been confirmed as Vulnerable (IUCN Red List, 2008). Léon Pierrot has been a local hero in helping to support and champion the cause for the misunderstood and maligned fossa, joining the Earthwatch research team in 1998. It hasn’t always been a popular cause: fossa are seen as dangerous, predatory vermin by many of the local Malagasy, especially farmers who kill them due to fears that these animals are a threat to their livestock.

Climate Change is melting the Arctic permafrost at an alarming rate, threatening to release billions more tons of methane and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, further contributing to harmful global warming. Dr Peter Kershaw, a researcher at the University of Alberta, is conducting ongoing long-term studies into how carbon stores are being affected by melting permafrost. Dr Kershaw’s expertise is remarkable: he is a professor of earth and atmospheric sciences, a biogeographer, disturbance ecologist and periglacial geomorphologist. Kershaw has been working in the Arctic region since 1973, focusing his research on environmental changes affecting the permafrost landforms. His year-round research efforts have resulted in unsurpassed levels of understanding of the environment in the Churchill and Mackenzie Mountains study areas. The unparallelled record of conditions in these areas will improve our ability to assess ecosystem responses to climate change in the future. Kershaw’s data has shown that permafrost is shrinking at the rate of about one per cent per year. Almost one quarter of the Earth’s landmass is affected by permafrost, the loss of which has dire implications for everything from pipelines to hydroelectric dams to coastal communities and transport corridors.

Born in Madagascar, growing up as the son of a subsistence farmer who was also a teacher, Pierrot is ideally suited to educate farmers about the fossas’ role in controlling threats to crops, like rats and wild pigs, helping locals to realise that protecting rather than persecuting the fossa actually benefits them and their harvest. Graduating with a Masters degree in Animal Biology from the University of Antananarivo, Pierrot is now the Field Director and Chief of Staff on our Carnivores of Madagascar project, working closely with lead scientist Dr Luke Dollar. Through his work with Friends of Madagascar over the last five years, Pierrot has also helped build or renovate 25 schools, improving the lives of more than 5,000 students. earthwatch.org/europe/exped/dollar_research.html

Kershaw’s passion for his subject makes the science come alive, empowering Earthwatch volunteers as “citizen scientists”. His work represents the cutting edge of climate change science, and protocols for snow measurement developed on the project have become international standards. Data from Kershaw’s project also contributed to the International Polar Year database, helping this massive research programme to improve our understanding of the Polar regions in a global context. earthwatch.org/europe/exped/kershaw_churchill_research.html

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Earthwatch scientists are award-winning, highly acclaimed experts in their field. By working with recognised leaders in scientific research, Earthwatch can carry out robust and pioneering investigations, gathering valuable results. Profiled here are four of our scientists – one for each of our Research Areas – who have excelled in both their experience and passion, making them some of our Heroes for the Planet.

oceans

cultural heritage

Dennis Sammy: Trinidad’s Leatherback Sea Turtles

Sonia Haoa Cardinali: Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Culture

“Creating an ecosystem of communities that can depend on each other through optimal use of natural resources for tourism” is Dennis Sammy’s vision for the northeast coast of Trinidad in the Caribbean. For almost 20 years, since the age of 22, Sammy has played a leadership role within Nature Seekers, a community-based organisation located in the village of Matura on Trinidad. Sammy became involved in Nature Seekers right from the start, in 1990, after he participated on a field trip, attended by various community leaders from Matura and surrounding villages, to raise awareness of the poaching of nesting leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea).

Sonia Haoa Cardinali is Rapa Nui’s coordinator of national monuments and has had a long association with Earthwatch and is intimately familiar with island’s archaeology and history. Born on Rapa Nui in the 1950s, Haoa has been a passionate leader in efforts to preserve the island’s heritage. In the 1970s she worked with archaeologist William Mulloy and his protégé, Sergio Rapu Haoa to restore fallen island’s statues (moai). She was part of the research team that discovered eyes made from white coral and pupils of red scoria, found buried near some of the statues. Restored and inserted into a statue, the eyes created a powerful gaze, helping identify the importance of moai in religious ceremonies. Haoa advanced the theory that the infamous collapse of the island’s civilisation was not the straightforward “ecocide” by deforestation that researchers previously thought. She demonstrated that her Rapa Nui ancestors had developed a sophisticated agricultural system of rock-gardening, designed to trap moisture, as well as retain and fertilize poor soils.

Becoming Managing Director of the NGO in 1995, Dennis Sammy has worked tirelessly with local residents, researchers, government agencies, Earthwatch, and other NGOs to create a model of sustainable, community-based ecotourism hailed throughout the Caribbean for its innovation and efficacy. Joining with the Matura community to halt the slaughter of nesting female leatherbacks on local beaches, Sammy has been an Earthwatch scientist and field team leader for hundreds of Earthwatch volunteers patrolling beaches and protecting turtles. Nature Seekers’ efforts have reduced the rate of turtle poaching in Matura from 25-40 turtles per year to zero, engaged former poachers as patrollers and tour guides, and created the basis for a science-based ecotourism economy. Sammy was awarded the prestigious Hummingbird Award for Conservation, one of the highest honours of Trinidad and Tobago. earthwatch.org/europe/exped/sammy_research.html

These deeper insights into the Rapa Nui civilisation, combined with uncertainties about how and when the culture collapsed, are motivating Haoa and her team’s efforts dig deeper into the islands archaeology to unearth the truth about the people, and their intelligent and technological responses to a changing climate. The story that Haoa and her research partner and archaeologist Dr Chris Stevenson are piecing together on Easter Island with the help of Earthwatch volunteers – rock by rock, sample by sample – is one that offers us hope in the human spirit of innovation, and the power of people to change. earthwatch.org/europe/exped/stevenson_research.html

Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or go online www.earthwatch.org/europe/donate

oceans

whales and dolphins in scotland Getting involved in the research gives you the possibility to enjoy and better understand the behaviour of these amazing animals.

“The team were outstanding in communicating their knowledge of the marine environment and providing an inspirational experience... I learned so much and hope to spread the message about the importance of marine conservation, particularly in the context of the Marine Bill. I have already written to my MP about this!” Gil Cleeve volunteer

The waters around the coast of Scotland provide rich feeding grounds for marine mammals and seabirds, and are populated by as many as 22 cetacean species, including the harbour porpoise, minke whale and the only resident bottlenose dolphin population in the North Sea. Owing to serious population declines, these three species all receive protection under national law. However, this legislation has been largely ineffective due to serious gaps in our knowledge of these animals and their ecology in UK waters. Conservation policies will only be successful if we can understand and predict relationships between wild cetacean populations and their habitats.

Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth Dr Kevin Robinson’s detailed study of the behaviour, movements and abundance on the three most common cetacean species occurring in the coastal waters off northeast Scotland – bottlenose dolphin, minke whale and harbour porpoise – will guide future management policies for the protection of these and other coastal cetacean species in the UK. Why you’re needed The cetacean species in this region were poorly documented before this research project began, and volunteers are fundamental to the application of this project’s work. You’ll perform systematic boat surveys to assess abundance of

whales and dolphins. Volunteers record geographic positions, interactions and behaviour, and take plenty of photographs. Time spent in the lab includes identifying individuals from the images, cataloguing the pictures, and entering data collected during the boat patrols. “The close encounters with cetaceans not only provide a real adrenaline rush, but also a hands-on experience and personal insight of the dedicated efforts made by the research team working hard to protect these incredible mammals and their environment.” Lynn Adams volunteer

Digital photographs of dorsal fins allow for the identification of individual dolphins back in the lab, providing information on species abundance, movement patterns and habitat use.

Some results from our Oceans research projects:

Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides Scientists Dr Jonathan Gordon and Nienke van Geel are locating key cetacean habitats – a vital step toward an effective conservation strategy. In the face of climate change, pollution, and the many threats posed by increased fishery activity, it may lead to the introduction of important protective measures. Why you’re needed Volunteers will become part of the research team living and working aboard the 60 foot sailing vessel, the Silurian. Monitoring activities focus on a range of species encountered in these waters,

including harbor porpoise, grey and common seal, bottlenose and Risso’s dolphin, minke whale and basking shark. The team shares various duties in rotation, such as front deck observation work, data entry, acoustic monitoring using cutting-edge technology, and identification photography. The data collected on the project will be invaluable in helping scientists make recommendations for Protected Area status in the region.

Go online: Moray Firth expedition web page: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/robinson.html Hebrides expedition web page: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/stevick.html Teen team available on Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides. Call +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit our website for more information: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/stevick_teen.html Research focus: www.earthwatch.org/europe/rf_scotland

As a result of our work in Greece, international cooperative for marine biodiversity ACCOBAMS has recommended that the Amvrakikos Gulf be considered a candidate for Marine Protected Area status, specifically to protect bottlenose dolphin. Find out more about our Dolphins of Greece project on page 34 An artificial coral head established by Earthwatch researchers in the Bahamas has yielded positive results, withstanding severe storms during 2008, and subsequently exhibiting no structural damage. Both marine plants and a hard coral were observed to colonise the structure, as well as a territorial dusky damselfish (Stegastes adustus). Due to the initial success of initial reef restoration efforts, in 2009, numerous artificial coral heads were constructed and placed within the study sites.

www.earthwatch.org/europe

Bahamian Reef Survey San Salvador Island, Bahamas – Coral reefs are under threat globally from climate change, coastal development, overharvesting, pollution and disease. The effects are serious – altering biodiversity, fishing, aquaculture, tourism and shore protection.

Coastal Ecology of the Bahamas Bahamian archipelago, Caribbean – The first human inhabitants of the Bahamas moved from one island to another as they depleted marine life stocks. Today we know more about the damage caused by development and resource use, but are still poor stewards of the islands. Most Bahamians are concerned about their environment but are in need of new information and solutions.

Why you’re needed – Dr Sullivan Sealey’s research is defining measurable criteria for sustainability for coastal zones within the Bahamian archipelago to guide development and conservation activities. You’ll record and process data using GPS technology, and carry out species and habitat sampling. You may also assist with transplanting flora and other coastal restoration activities.

Curieuse Island, The Seychelles – Curieuse Island is home to a diverse array of habitats in a species-rich coastal ecosystem. But human activities such as pollution and the dynamics of global climate change threaten the reef habitats here, contributing to the phenomenon of coral bleaching, the death of the living organisms that sustain the reefs.

Las Baulas National Park, Costa Rica – The leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) is one of the world’s most threatened species. With long-term impacts from fishing activities, pollution and climate change becoming apparent, ongoing research is vital. Why you’re needed – Drs Frank Paladino and James Spotila are researching the

Why you’re needed – With John Rollino you’ll gather data to help enable more accurate prediction of the likely impacts of threats currently faced by reef ecosystems worldwide. You’ll help conduct surveys of coral and other marine life, carry out underwater and tidal pool transects, and test water quality and monitor beach profiles. You’ll also help develop and test methods for repairing and restoring reefs.

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/sullivan.html

Coral and Coastal Ecology of the Seychelles

Costa Rican Sea Turtles

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/rollino.html

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/smith.html

Why you’re needed – With Drs Dave Smith and Dave Suggett, you’ll assist in evaluating the health of these ecosystems in the face of environmental change. You’ll help to identify which species in the region might be most important for tracking the effects of global climate change in the Indian Ocean. Data collected will help inform conservation strategies for reef ecosystems locally and globally.

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/paladino.html

breeding and population dynamics of leatherback turtles, supplying nesting data to conservation officials to guide turtle management and establishing conservation partnerships with local groups. Conducting nocturnal surveys, you’ll measure nesting turtles and mark nest locations. You’ll assist in hatchery studies, and may help attach satellite telemetry devices to turtles to monitor migration and diving patterns.

Dolphins of Greece Vonitsa, Greece – Despite the Amvrakikos gulf having one of the highest known densities of bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) in the Mediterranean, human activity is threatening the ecological habitat of this charismatic mammal. Why you’re needed – You’ll assist Dr Giovanni Bearzi and Juan Gonzalvo Villegas research by assesing the bottlenose Looking for flights? Try www.flyforgood.com

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/bearzi.html

population and determining key threats to the ecosystem and its dolphins, providing data for numerous organisations for inclusion in international management agreements. You’ll take part in daily boat surveys, recording the numbers, group composition and activities of sighted dolphins. At the field station in Vonitsa, you’ll prepare digital images of dorsal fins for identification to help monitor the individual movements of the dolphins.

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South African Penguins Robben Island, South Africa – African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) numbers have fallen by 90 per cent in the last century. Those that populate Robben Island are under threat from oil spills, increased seal predation, competition with fisheries and climate change. Why you’re needed – With Drs Les Underhill, Robert Crawford, and Peter

Tracking Baja’s Black Sea Turtles

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/barham.html

Barham, and Mr. Mario Leshoro, you’ll research penguin populations, monitoring breeding rates and nesting and feeding habits. You’ll conduct animal and litter surveys, assist in clean-up operations and record sightings of previously banded penguins. You’ll also assist in the application of a newly developed automatic recognition system by photographing individual penguins.

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/koch.html

Laguna San Ignacio, Mexico – The black sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) is classified as Endangered (IUCN Red List), facing threats from poaching, pollution, climate change and coastal development. Why you’re needed – Drs Volker Koch, Wallace J Nichols, and William Megill are mapping the movements of individual turtles relative to food sources and

oceanographic conditions in the region. This crucial scientific data is assisting with the development of sustainable management plans for the conservation of the black sea turtle, as well as the protection of the biodiversity of the entire lagoon. Activities include working from boats to monitor, sonar-track, capture, weigh, tag and release turtles.

Trinidad’s Leatherback Sea Turtles Trinidad, Caribbean – The leatherback turtle, (Dermochelys coriacea) the largest of all sea turtles, arrives each year between March and August to nest on the beaches of Trinidad. Threats to this Critically Endangered species (IUCN Red List) include pollution, hunting, prolonged egg harvesting and accidental capture.

Whales of British Columbia

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/sammy.html

Why you’re needed – Dennis Sammy and Dr Scott Eckert are investigating the distribution and abundance of nesting turtles and the effects of extensive tourism. You’ll conduct beach patrols – daytime and night – to tag and measure nesting turtles, count egg batches, monitor nest temperatures and measure breeding success rates. Your data will help inform the development of local management strategies.

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/ megill_canada.html

British Columbia, Canada – Grey whale (Eschrichtius robustus) make one of the longest migrations known to science, travelling annually between their Arctic summer feeding grounds and winter calving grounds near the equator. In recent years, the eastern Pacific population of grey whale has declined.

Why you’re needed – You’ll help Drs William Megill, David Duffus and Lei Lani Stelle identify how many whales the region – and other areas like it – may be able to support. You’ll search for whales, conduct sea-floor sampling, photoidentify individual whales, record data, and assist with navigation.

“We know that we are helping to preserve these amazing environments and by talking to other people, sharing photos and experiences etc, we help to make environmental issues real to other people and spread the word about how Earthwatch helps to address these issues.” Elaine Massie and Richard Lawson are regular volunteers, having participated on 22 Earthwatch expeditions to date

Looking for gear? Visit http://earthwatch.newheadings.com

The ‘dumpy level’, a simple optical instrument, is used in a three-dimensional process to record ground levels and location of archaeological finds.

cultural heritage

ancient britain: romans on the tyne Award-winning excavations at the northern edge of the Roman Empire are seeking to understand how ancient Romans and Europeans came into contact with each other – and were forever changed by the experience.

“The field staff were brilliant. They taught me more than I could ever have imagined – almost felt like a pro myself! Finding a coin and Roman pottery was a high point and standing in the work area sharing information with the school kids was a delight!” John Atkinson volunteer

Two millennia ago, the Roman Empire reached far into northern Britain to Hadrian’s Wall, which for a time marked the northernmost limits of this civilisation. The research project is located at the historic site of Arbeia Roman Fort, which in its day controlled the port on the River Tyne in northeast England. The Fort today is part of the outstanding World Heritage Site of Hadrian’s Wall. This research aims to shed new light on our understanding of the region and its history. The results are providing a greater foundation of knowledge to inform future plans for the management and conservation of the area, especially regarding decisions on development in parts of the region currently outside of the World Heritage Site.

Some results from our Cultural Heritage research projects:

Why you’re needed Lead scientists Paul Bidwell, Dr Nick Hodgson and Graeme Stobbs are trying to understand how early Romans survived in these farthest outreaches. They want to understand how their construction skills and communities evolved. What was their impact on the local agricultural economy and how did they protect and manage their supplies? Answers are coming to light all the time through the excavations of Arbeia. The history of the site’s archaeology – including stone granaries and remains of the garrison – reaches across four centuries, and incorporates pre-Roman Iron Age remains, as well as several phases of Roman construction work.

Joining this long-running project, you’ll be excavating and undertaking exploratory work outside the fort. This includes the remains of the large and vibrant civilian town which once clustered around the walls of the Roman military base. You will have the opportunity to enjoy many tasks, including excavation and site surveying; sampling, cleaning, and processing finds, which to date have included jewellery, armour, game pieces, and ceramics.

Go online: Expedition web page: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/bidwell.html Teen, family, short duration or group expeditions may also be available. Call +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit our website for more information: www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions Award winning research: www.earthwatch.org/europe/news-3-roman.html

The most impressive discoveries so far at Arbeia have been the recognition of an early granary and timber buildings dating to around CE 120-40 and finding reused masonry in the fort foundations, predating its build in CE 160. Inscriptions have also revealed records relating to building work on the first known fort at the location. In addition, recent investigations on pre-Roman remains have revealed ancient field systems, providing new evidence of the complexity of land division surrounding an Iron Age settlement Data collected by volunteers on the ecology of Rapa Nui are being used to model changes in human quality of life over time and examine the risk of societal collapse, to better understand whether agricultural failures and climatic changes may have been the factors that sealed the fate of the islanders. Find out more about our Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Culture project on page 38

www.earthwatch.org/europe

Discovering Italy’s Ancient Roman Coast

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/camilli.html

Rimigliano Coastal Park, Italy – Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Poggio del Molino is one of the most significant active archaeological sites in Italy. As an ancient maritime settlement, it served the important Etruscan city of Populonia. Its exports later supported Roman expansion in Africa, and helped finance the Augustan ruling class.

Why you’re needed – Drs Andrea Camilli and Carolina Megale are investigating the coastal economy and industrial history of this region, which promises exciting insights into Roman rule and territorial exploitation. You’ll assist with excavation, cleaning and documenting finds, collecting organic samples, and surveying for mosaic, fresco, pottery, metal, and coins.

Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Culture Easter Island (Rapa Nui), Chile – Recently, the history of Easter Island has been depicted as a microcosm for global environmental disaster. It has been hypothesised that a rapid population growth initiated massive landscape degradation, resulting in devastating societal ‘collapse’. Why you’re needed – With Dr Christopher Stevenson and Sonia Haoa you’ll undertake

Native America: Cultural Landscapes of the Yakama Nation

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archaeological research, documenting the evolution of farming on Rapa Nui to learn the roles of climate and human induced factors in causing the civilisation’s eventual failure. You’ll search for evidence of domestic and agricultural land use and conduct surface surveys of former community dwellings and identify archaeological sites for conservation and future exploration.

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/cauffman.html

Washington, USA – Along the Columbia River, the Yakama Nation speaks across the ages from roughly 60 petroglyphs on basalt rocks, and comes together at ritual, rootgathering, and fishing sites. Researchers are working to document how the Yakama live – and have lived upon – these lands.

draw strength from tradition, the pressures of modern reservation life make preserving culture challenging. You’ll help Dr Steven Hackenberger, archaeologist Gideon Cauffman, and native Yakama researcher Randell Corpez conduct ethnographic interviews, record place names and coordinates, survey petroglyhps, and create tools for cultural resource management.

Why you’re needed – While many Yakama

Origins of Angkor Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand – The prehistoric people of northeast Asia have stereotypically been portrayed by many Westerners as primitive and supine. Recent excavations have highlighted the historical misconceptions, showing the existence of complex and innovative communities. Why you’re needed – Dr Nigel Chang, Dr Kate Domett, and Prof Bill Boyd aim to

earthwatch.org/europe/exped/chang.html

develop a broader understanding of life at ancient Ban Non Wat. Further investigation is needed to enable accurate representation of the area’s Stone, Bronze and Iron Age people and understand how they responded to environmental change. You’ll work alongside local people, digging for burials, pottery and other artefacts, and processing finds.

“A thought provoking and wonderful experience that took me out of my comfort zone, educated me and sent me home with a whole new perspective on life and living. The education extended beyond just the environmental and scientific research and into cultural and educational issues as well.” Beverley Knoesen Corporate Fellow on Tidal Forests of Kenya Looking for dates and prices? Unfold the back cover

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volunteer profile Claire Hurren – Medical Doctor After her most recent Earthwatch experience on the Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth project in 2008, Claire decided to leave the rat-race and move up to Scotland. She continues parttime as a GP, but she and her partner have now bought a small piece of land attached to a property – known as a croft – which they are currently renovating. They have dug out a trout lake, and are planning to keep a variety of animals and develop a large vegetable plot in the garden. Claire and her partner will also be investing in a boat to do some occasional sea fishing and continue to observe whales and dolphins. Their long term aim is to become as self-sufficient as possible, and spend more time being involved with local wildlife and conservation groups.

“I’ve been on 18 projects and can honestly say that no other experience comes close to an Earthwatch expedition. I’ve met wonderful people and made lifelong friends, and all this whilst knowing that I am contributing

to the vital research that Earthwatch supports.”

volunteer profile Annalisa Winge Bicknell – Senior Financial Executive After 17 years of work, Finance Executive Annalisa Winge Bicknell decided to take a six-month sabbatical from her career and joined five expeditions in a row with Earthwatch. Annalisa wanted to step outside her comfort zone and challenge herself and deliberately chose a varied range of Earthwatch expeditions after exploring all the options on our website. In June 2008 she started her Earthwatch mission on Wildlife and Wine in Bordeaux, where she helped scientists to investigate which farming practices best stimulate biodiversity in vineyards. Her expedition placements took her through China and onto Mongolia where she joined Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe. Here she worked with the project’s international team of scientists collecting data on

the threatened argali sheep as well as a variety of little-studied animals in a magnificent region of semi-arid grasslands and rocky outcrops. Annalisa was thrilled when the scientists named a sheep after her! Her final project location found her in the wilds of Canada on Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge. Annalisa believes her experiences have made her more relaxed, patient and understanding, and her sabbatical has allowed her to spend more quality time with her family and friends. She adds, “I feel I have grown as a person. Life is all about experiences. It meant stepping out into the unknown and opening myself up to new experiences. There are still so many people in the world who do not understand one another. In our global community, we do sometimes need to go beyond our comfort zones and let others in.”

Need more info? Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or visit www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions

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Organise a student group in 2010 with Earthwatch

+44 (0)1865 318831

additional expeditions: teen, family, short duration, groups and fellowships No matter who you are or what kind of field research experience you’re looking for, Earthwatch has something to offer you in 2010. Nearly every project listed in this guide offers a standard expedition duration of one to two weeks; some have other types of expeditions, described here: • Short duration (3-5 days) teams on selected projects – look for this icon: • Choice of research locations, Seasons or acommodation – our 2010 expeditions feature an increased variety of ways to get involved with certain projects. For example: On Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge you can field during the summer or fall at the Churchill site, in the Hudson bay region, or at the more remote Mackenzie Mountains location in February, very different research locations and field activities. Amazon Riverboat Exploration offers expeditions aboard a choice of two different, refurbished river boats, one a bit more luxurious than the other. Contribution costs will vary among all the examples listed here. • Teen teams and family teams on selected projects – specially designed expeditions exclusively for 16 and 17 year olds, and family teams that can include volunteers as young as 10 or 12 (restrictions vary). Trained Facilitators are on these teams and supervised recreational activities are provided. Call us or go online for more information: www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped_ teen_family • School, university, or special interest group teams – opportunities for joining exist on nearly all of our expeditions. We will work with you to find the right expedition for your schedule and

educational goals. Group teams must have between 6-20 participants (ages 16 and 17 only for non-university school groups; ages 18+ for university and all other group teams) and group leaders can participate at no cost (conditions apply). Call us or go online for more information: www.earthwatch.org/ europe/schoolgroups • Student and educator fellowships – we provide a variety of funded opportunities every year for students age 16+ and for educators from a variety of subjects to join specific student teams or educator teams. Students are the citizens and leaders of tomorrow, and the Earthwatch experience helps you actively connect with the environment and participate in achieving a more sustainable society. Educators use the environmental education to increase knowledge in their classrooms, schools, and communities. Call us or go online for more information: www.earthwatch. org/europe/young_people AND www. earthwatch.org/europe/educators

• Amazon Riverboat Exploration • Carnivores of Madagascar • Costa Rican Coffee From Community to Cup • Diamondback Terrapins of Barnegat Bay • New York City Wildlife • Puerto Rico’s Rainforest • Songbirds of the Rocky Mountains • South Africa’s Brown Hyenas • Geology and the Shaping of the American Southwest • Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge • Climate Change, Canopies and Wildlife • Mammals of Nova Scotia

• Corporate fellowships – Earthwatch works with a wide range of companies around the world to engage employees in conservation research and action. Their one or two week experiences on Earthwatch projects is very empowering, and they return to become agents of change in their workplaces and set up local volunteering projects in their communities. Call us or go online for more information: www.earthwatch. org/europe/employee_engagement See following column for a selection of projects with additional options:

• Samburu Communities and Wildlife • Tracking Baja’s Black Sea Turtles • Trinidad’s Leatherback Sea Turtles • Wildlife and Wine in Bordeaux • Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides • Whales of British Columbia • Ancient Britain: Romans on the Tyne • Discovering Italy’s Ancient Roman Coast

Call us on +44 (0)1865 318831 or go online www.earthwatch.org/europe/schoolgroups

www.earthwatch.org/europe

find out more:

Expeditions page (www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions)

Search results

Welcome to the Expeditions Web Page. This is the access point for much, much more information that we could ever fit into this guide. 1. Click on any region of the map to see the projects you can join in that region, or see everything by clicking “Show all expeditions” 2. The left hand “EXPEDITION SEARCH” column allows you to carry out themed searches. Try a few different searches, you may find some projects fit multiple criteria, while others fit fewer or just one 3. Theme boxes, such as “Teen”, “Climate Change” etc. when clicked on will help you find what you want quickly. We update these from time to time, so don’t be alarmed if you come back to them one day to find new themes. We like to keep you inspired!

1. Your search results will always appear in this way, with this top menu of Filter Options sitting above your list of projects. The Filter here is a tool which allows you to refine search further, based on some key criteria that we’ve learnt are important to you! 2. On any of the projects in your list, you will immediately have useful information at your fingertips. Some icons when clicked on will provide additional information on accommodations etc. You can also jump straight to booking by clicking on the ‘Book’ button 3. We’ve expanded the options on some of our projects, like Amazon Riverboat Exploration for example, where we’re using a second, alternative boat, allowing us to offer you a choice of two different experiences on the same amazing expedition. Click on any of these projects, and you’ll open that specific page (see the third screen shot on the next page)

4. “We couldn’t do it without you...” click here and a world of amazing and impressive results awaits you, all thanks to volunteer efforts on Earthwatch projects worldwide 5. Our website is the gateway to the wider world of Earthwatch. The buttons and drop down menus at the top of the page will take you there

www.earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions/

www.earthwatch.org/europe/Expeditions/ExpedSearchResults.aspx?show=0

5 1 2

3 Special Expeditions: Teen, Family, Short Duration, Groups

+44 (0)1865 318831

going online, getting useful information, and booking your expedition Expedition details and steps to making a booking online Welcome to the project page. There’s loads of fantastic information on these pages, arranged into specific sections to make it really easy for you to navigate your way through the details 1. Sections are accessed through the tabs just below the main image. This screen shot shows you the “Booking info” tab selected (the open tab will turn black to remind you where you are) 2. From the “Fast Facts” column you can read and download an Expedition Briefing. This is the single most detailed document on the expedition (note: online Briefings do not contain all rendezvous information you need; we will send you a printed Briefing with this information in it once you have made your booking) 3. Specific team dates, duration, and minimum contribution are all listed on the “Booking info” tab. From here, you can book a place on your chosen date/team. If you see “Call”, it means either that there are only a few spaces left, or that we have now entered a period within 60 days of the team start date. So in this case, call do call us on +44 (0)1865 318831

www.earthwatch.org/europe/exped/scott_booking.html

By now, you should be an expert at navigating your way around our site. You’ve chosen your expedition, found available team and dates, and now you want to make an online booking. So what’s next? Simple. There are just a few logical steps you need to follow: Step 1: To book online, click any “Book Now” link and you’ll go through to a page which asks about currency, cost, date and the number of people booking Step 2: Next screen fill in all your personal details, making sure as much information as possible is captured. Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions and click on the box to confirm your acceptance of them Step 3: Get your Credit Card ready: this is the payment page. We accept Visa, Mastercard, and American Express Step 4: Congratulations! You’ve got your place. We’ll send your Briefing Pack with everything else you need to know before you go. See you soon!

“My experience with Earthwatch in Namibia was inspirational, cementing my plans for a new career path. I’m now studying for an Environmental Conservation degree at Oxford University” Anja Bradley Volunteer on Cheetah

Turn to page 40 for more information

www.earthwatch.org/europe

in safe hands We place the highest priority on the health and safety of our participants, staff and project partners. We have nearly 40 years’ experience getting volunteers into the field and back safely. Each year we send more than 3,000 people on Earthwatch expeditions around the world and currently operate in more than 24 countries. We utilise the services of leading risk consultancies to develop our risk management practices, emergency procedures and safety policies. With our operations spanning the globe, we constantly monitor changes in political and/or security situations and climatic and meteorological conditions in all countries in which we work. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we believe that through careful risk management and diligent planning all participants can have a safe, educational and inspirational experience.

We have a trained international incident management team who are on duty 24 hours a day. International Emergency Medical Evacuation service is provided by International SOS, the world’s leading provider of medical assistance, international healthcare, security services and outsourced customer care and is included in the cost of your expedition. Earthwatch safety policy • We strive to match participants’ expectations and fitness ability to suitable projects through our screening process • We provide in-depth information to participants in Expedition Briefings before fielding, including project conditions and risks associated with the project • We carry out thorough risk assessments prior to projects fielding • We ensure that safe drinking water is available at all locations • We ensure that accommodation is suitable to the project and research area

• We develop detailed medical evacuation plans for every project • We ensure that our field staff are trained in emergency procedures • We provide 24/7 emergency assistance service through our specially trained Field Management staff and medical, evacuation and security partner All of Earthwatch’s safety policies and procedures are compiled in our Earthwatch Field Manual. This was created by the Earthwatch International Field Management team in conjunction with external safety consultants and our scientists, and is provided to all project staff who lead our expeditions. If you have any questions about our safety management policy or specific concerns about safety on your project, please do not hesitate to contact Earthwatch on +44 (0)1865 318831

Previous volunteers’ experiences: www.earthwatch.org/europe/diaries

be there for the environment be there for earthwatch

join the movement, support the cause Take action right now by donating to Eartwatch and helping to provide the financial support we need to continue our field research, conservation, and outreach programmes. Our focused research objectives are producing real and tangible results, but our work cannot continue without the support of people like you. Will you help us achieve our mission? Four ways to say YES! 1. Donate to Earthwatch By making a regular donation you can help support our vital research and other programmes. We will gladly accept one-time donations as well. You can make donations in your own name, or in honour or memory of someone special. You will receive our supporter newsletter Earthwatcher three times a year, to keep you informed of the results that your donations are helping us achieve. Visit www.earthwatch.org/ europe/donate

2. Fundraise for Earthwatch

3. Come to an Earthwatch event

Raise funds and increase awareness of our worthy cause by holding your own fundraising event or taking part in a sponsored challenge. Make use of our excellent range of fundraising materials available online. You can fundraise to assist with your expedition contribution too!

Earthwatch endeavors to share the results of our projects with our supporters and with the wider community. Many Earthwatch presentations, lectures, and fundraising events are open to the public. Why not attend one of our educational lectures or expedition open days and find out more about our work and achievements?

Visit www.earthwatch.org/ europe/donate_fundraise

Visit www.earthwatch.org/ europe/events

you learn, you inspire, you change, you count...

4. Involve your company Does your employer operate a payroll giving scheme, offer â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;matched givingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; for sponsored challenge events, or select a Charity of the Year? If so you can get them involved in supporting Earthwatch too! Contact development@ earthwatch.org.uk to find out more

www.earthwatch.org/europe

frequently asked questions and essential information Answers to dozens of frequently asked questions can be found on our website: www.earthwatch.org/europe/ exped_faqs Is this for me? Earthwatch expeditions are scientific field research expeditions, not guided tours or typical ecotourism trips. However, no special skills, qualifications or prior experience are required. As a general rule, you will travel, work, eat, bathe, and sleep as research scientists do in the field. Earthwatch tries to provide the most comfortable experience possible while keeping participation within the economic reach of as many people as possible. Some expeditions therefore offer more “creature comforts” than others. Most expeditions cater to a wide range of dietary needs.However, when working in more remote areas, food will tend to reflect what is available locally. When in doubt, check with Earthwatch before signing up. Accommodation varies by research project and ranges from simple hotels to wildlife lodges or student dormitories, to tents in the rainforest. There may be private bathrooms or pit toilets, hot or cold showers. Please check the Expedition Briefing for details. Fieldwork in remote locations is a delicate business and can be prone to last-minute changes. Flexibility is a must. We accept all of this as part ofwhat makes an Earthwatch expedition unique. How is my contribution used? The price of participating on an Earthwatch expedition is called a contribution. On average in 2010, your contribution will be spent in the following ways: • Fifty-seven per cent of your contribution is spent by the scientists managing your expedition. Typical costs include supplies, equipment, rents, utilities, and the hiring of local cooks or drivers as well as your food, accommodation, and local transport costs

• Twenty per cent of your contribution is spent by Earthwatch on political, climate, and meteorological risk assessment, health and safety policies, 24/7 incident response and emergency management procedures, and associated training of research scientists • Twenty per cent of your contribution is spent by Earthwatch to promote expeditions to the public and service your participation, including printing this guide, maintaining our website, taking your booking, reviewing your registration forms, sending you a Briefing Pack, and thoroughly preparing you before departure for your expedition • Three per cent of your contribution will be spent on medical and evacuation insurance coverage and offsetting the greenhouse gas emissions of your travel You may be surprised to hear that your contribution does not cover all costs related to starting up and managing research projects. In fact, Earthwatch must actively raise money from other sources to cover outstanding costs so they are not passed to you in the form of higher contributions. For more information or general enquiries: Call Us Earthwatch is open Monday to Friday – 9am to 5pm on: +44 (0)1865 318831 Visit www.earthwatch.org/europe Our website has a host of features including Google Earth maps, photos, movies, journals and stories from past volunteers, and the most up-to-date expedition listings! Ready to Go? Sign Up for an Expedition 1. Book over the phone or online Call +44 (0)1865 318831 or go online at www.earthwatch.org/europe

Love Earthwatch? Tell us why!

2. We will send you a full Expedition Briefing containing detailed information about the expedition. Please read it carefully and send in your volunteer forms. Volunteer forms are due 90 days before the start date of your expedition. Expedition Briefings are also available on our website, although these versions do not contain full rendezvous details. 3. Book your travel Travel costs to and from your expedition rendezvous site are not included in your contribution. You are free to make your travel arrangements with any travel agency you choose. We can provide recommendations for travel agencies that are accustomed to making arrangements to unusual destinations. You are strongly advised to buy flexible or refundable plane tickets or purchase optional travel insurance. See below for details. Insurance, Policies and Taxes For volunteers joining through the US and UK offices, Earthwatch includes mandatory medical evacuation insurance in your contribution. To learn more about this policy please go to: www.earthwatch. org/europe/expeditions/insuranceinfo Payment, Transfer, Refund and Cancellation Policy For complete details on all Earthwatch policies, terms and conditions please go to: www.earthwatch.org/europe/ expeditions/exped_preparation Sign-up 91 days or more prior to start date: £175 non-refundable deposit required. Sign-up 0-90 days prior to start date: Full contribution cost required. Full Payment Due Date: The full contribution cost is due 90 days before the start date of the team. Volunteers will not be automatically charged, but will be

+44 (0)1865 318831

solicited through monthly invoices. You can make your full payment via credit card over the phone or online, or by cheque. Transfer or cancel 91 days or more prior to start date: Earthwatch will apply the non-refundable deposit either toward another expedition of your choice or to an Expedition Fund valid for up to three years. Cancellation 0-90 days prior to start date: 100 per cent of the contribution cost is retained by Earthwatch. Under no circumstances is a refund available to those who cancel within 90 days of the start date of their expedition. Trip cancellation insurance is included in the cost you pay to Earthwatch. For more information please visit www.earthwatch. org/europe/expeditions/insuranceinfo. Note: Any funds retained due to late cancellation will support expedition field research and will be considered a charitable gift to Earthwatch. Please note that Earthwatch memberships and additional donations made above the minimum contribution are non-refundable as they are also considered a charitable gift. In the unlikely event that Earthwatch must cancel an expedition, your expedition contribution will be refunded in full. Earthwatch does not reimburse airfare or other personal travel expenses associated with a cancelled expedition. For more details on insurance, please go to www. earthwatch.org/europe/expeditions/ insuranceinfo. PLEASE NOTE: These Terms and Conditions are subject to change at any time, and each Earthwatch Institute office conducts its own policies according to the laws and subsidies of their country of residence. www.earthwatch.org/europe/ exped_preparation

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research area

ecosystems

earthwatch worldwide

climate change

oceans

cultural heritage

country

page title

Peru

Amazon Riverboat Exploration

France

Birds, Biodiversity and Biking in Provence

Madagascar

Carnivores of Madagascar

Namibia

Cheetah

Costa Rica

Costa Rican Coffee From Community to Cup

United States

Diamondback Terrapins of Barnegat Bay

Kenya

Elephants of Tsavo

United States

Geology and the Shaping of the American Southwest

Peru

Macaws of the Peruvian Amazon

United States

Mammoth Graveyard

United States

Mapping Change in California’s Mountains

South Africa

Meerkats of the Kalahari

Czech Republic

Mountain Waters of the Czech Republic

United States

New York City Wildlife

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico’s Rainforest

Kenya

Samburu Communities and Wildlife

Kenya

Saving Kenya’s Black Rhinos

United States

Songbirds of the Rocky Mountains

South Africa

South Africa’s Brown Hyaenas

Brazil

Tracking Brazil’s Elusive Jaguars

Nicaragua

Volcano

South Africa

Walking with African Wildlife

France

Wildlife and Wine in Bordeaux

Mongolia

Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe

United States*

Climate Change and Caterpillars

United States

Climate Change and Chesapeake Bay Forests

Malaysia

Climate Change and Landscape in Borneo’s Rainforests

Canada

Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge

Ecuador

Climate Change, Canopies and Wildlife

Canada

Mammals of Nova Scotia

Kenya

Tidal Forests of Kenya

Bahamas

Bahamian Reef Survey

Bahamas

Coastal Ecology of the Bahamas

Seychelles

Coral and Coastal Ecology of the Seychelles

Costa Rica

Costa Rican Sea Turtles

Greece

Dolphins of Greece

South Africa

South African Penguins

Mexico

Tracking Baja’s Black Sea Turtles

Trinidad

Trinidad’s Leatherback Sea Turtles

Scotland

Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth

Scotland

Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides

Canada

Whales of British Columbia

England

Ancient Britain: Romans on the Tyne

Italy

Discovering Italy’s Ancient Roman Coast

Chile

Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Culture

United States

Native America: Cultural Landscapes of the Yakama Nation

Thailand

Origins of Angkor

www.earthwatch.org/europe

activity and days contribution contribution months available – 2010 fitness level min./max. £ € jan. feb. mar. apr. may june july 7/15

£1495-1895

€1795-2275

Moderate

£1095-1195

€1315-1435

Strenuous

£1395-1630

€1675-1955

Easy/Moderate

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•

aug. sep. •

•

• •

Easy

15/22

£1995-2695

€2395-3235

Moderate

8/10

£1095-1530

€1315-1835

Moderate

3/9

Easy

£1945

€2335

Easy

£1395

€1675

Easy

£1650

€1980

Moderate

£995

€1195

•

Moderate

£1795

€2155

•

Very Active •

• •

•

Very active

£1250

€1500

•

Moderate

3/9

£350-1230

€420-1475

•

Very Active/Mod.

£995-1350

€1195-1620

•

Moderate

£1695-1930

€2035-2320

•

Moderate

£1395

€1675

Moderate

£1295-1495

€1555-1795

Moderate

£1550-1875

€1860-2250

Moderate

£1395

€1675

Strenuous

7/14

£1250-2075

€1500-2490

• •

•

Very Active

£1995

€2395

£995

€1195

•

Very Active

£1650

€1980

•

Very Active/Mod.

£1095

€1315

£1050

€1260

Moderate

£1350-3195

€1620-3835

Strenuous

£1495-1730

€1795-2075

Moderate

£1195-1530

€1435-1835

Very Active

£1095

€1315

Moderate

7/8

£1095

€1315

Easy

£1195

€1435

Moderate

14 9

£1425

€1710

Easy

£995-1250

€1195-1500

Moderate

£1195

€1435

Moderate

£1295-1525

€1555-1830

Very Active

£1295-1550

€1555-1860

Moderate

£895-1095

€1075-1315

Moderate

10 7/13

£995-1895

€1195-2220

Moderate

3/14

£295-1450

€355-1740

Moderate

6/13

£1095-1695

€1315-2035

Moderate

£2380

€2855

Moderate

= Please call for more details

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•

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•

€1195-2035

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•

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£995-1695

•

Easy

7/14

•

Very Active

Easy

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• •

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•

Easy

Moderate

•

*= also in Costa Rica and Ecuador

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+44 (0)1865 318831

team type oct.

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nov.

dec.

•

Standard & Teen

min. no. places

max. no. places

6/7

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Standard & Teen

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Standard Standard & Teen

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Standard

Standard, Short Duration & Teen

6/8

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Standard, Teen & Family

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Standard, Teen & Family

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Standard & Teen

Standard

Short Duration

Standard

6/10

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Standard & Teen

9/15

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Standard • •

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Standard •

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10/15

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Standard & Teen

3/6

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Standard & Teen

Standard, Family & Teen

Standard, Teen, Short D. & Family

12/20

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Standard

Standard & Teen Standard Standard

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Earthwatch International Board of Directors Whitney L Johnson, Chairman Herschel Post, MBE, Vice Chairman Louise Barrett Amy Ruth Borun Richard M Burnes, Jr. Mark Cappellano Sagarika Chatterjee Richard Donkin George A Eberstadt Russell B Faucett Donna M Funk G Keith Funston, Jr. Gary F Goldring Willard C (Dub) Hay Dr John Hemming, CMG* Donald R Kendall, Jr.*+ Dr Margaret D Lowman* Prof David Macdonald* Merrill L Magowan Anthony J McMahon Dr William R Moomaw* Thomas H Nicholson* G Andrew Pindar, OBE Brian A Rosborough, Ex-Officio Dr Daniel I Rubenstein*+ Ruth C Scheer Dr Tsuru Shinya, Ex-Officio Robert J Stack Charles Swingland Philip L Weickhardt, Ex-Officio Edward Wilson, Ex-Officio Karen D Zukerman DIRECTORS EMERITI William G Meserve, Chairman Emeritus Chester G Atkins Donald E Dana James S Hoyte Francis O Hunnewell David H Koch Linda Millard Graham G Spurling James M Storey Prof Ian Swingland OBE Bronson Thayer Jill Walsh

* International Mission Committee members + Co-Chairman of International Mission Committee

EARTHWATCH SCIENCE ADVISORS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Dr Pam Berry Dr Richard Bodmer Dr Peter Brosius Prof M James Crabbe Dr Edmond Dounias Prof Michel Kaiser Dr Luisa Maffi Prof Helene Marsh Dr Will McClatchey Dr Jeffrey A McNeely Prof Ken Norris Dr Raj Puri Dr John C Radcliffe Prof N H Ravindranath Dr Daniel I Rubenstein Dr Hazel Rymer Dr Jeffrey Seminoff Rob Shore Dr Eleanor Sterling Dr Nigel Stork Prof M S Swaminathan Dr Hugh Synge Sir Crispin Tickell GCMG KCVO Dr Robert Voeks

The majority of the photographs featured in this guide were taken by Earthwatch researchers, volunteers and staff. Cover photograph: Pete Oxford/NaturePL. A number of images inside were also provided by David Barron/Oxygen Group, Dale Curtis, Des Gould, Paul Harris, Kate Holt/Shoot theEarth, Mark Lloyd, Simon Rawles, Niall Riddell, Phillip Ross, Brent Stirton, Guy Stockton, Tethys Research Institute, and Geordie Torr. Although it is not possible to credit each image directly, Earthwatch thanks all those who have contributed and allowed us to use these pictures.

EARTHWATCH INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE TEAM Ed Wilson, President & CEO Nigel Winser, Executive Vice President & Head of Programmes Gareth Price, International Chief Financial Officer Eve Carpenter, International Director of Engagement and Learning Dave Hillyard, International Director of Partnerships Barbara Erickson, Chief Development Officer

Editorial and project management team – Caroline Chisholm, James Fry, George Grattan, Rob Stringer and Crispin Zeeman, with thanks to many staff throughout Earthwatch without whose contributions this guide wouldn’t be possible. Special thanks must be given also to some of Earthwatch’s corporate partners for their kind support of some of the projects featured in this guide. Aviva, HSBC, Mitsubishi Corporation, Shell, Starbucks, and Syngenta. Earthwatch Institute (Europe) is the working name for Conservation Education & Research Trust (CERT), a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (number: 4373313) and a registered charity (number: 1094467). Designed by bwa-design.co.uk Printed by Park Lane Press www.parklanepress.co.uk

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32. Bahamian Reef Survey 33. Coastal Ecology of the Bahamas 34. Coral and Coastal Ecology of the Seychelles 35. Costa Rican Sea Turtles 36. Dolphins of Greece 37. South African Penguins 38. Tracking Baja’s Black Sea Turtles 39. Trinidad’s Leatherback Sea Turtles 40. Whales and Dolphins of Moray Firth 41. Whales and Dolphins of the Hebrides 42. Whales of British Columbia

43. Ancient Britain: Romans on the Tyne 44. Discovering Italy’s Ancient Roman Coast 45. Easter Island (Rapa Nui) Culture 46. Native America: Cultural Landscapes of the Yakama Nation 47. Origins of Angkor

18 11

35 25 09 20

18. Songbirds of the Rocky Mountains 19. South Africa’s Brown Hyenas 20. Tracking Brazil’s Elusive Jaguars 21. Volcano 22. Walking with African Wildlife 23. Wildlife and Wine in Bordeaux 24. Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe 25. Climate Change and Caterpillars 26. Climate Change and Chesapeake Bay Forests 27. Climate Change and Landscape in Borneo’s Rainforests 28. Climate Change at the Arctic’s Edge 29. Climate Change, Canopies and Wildlife 30. Mammals of Nova Scotia 31. Tidal Forests of Kenya

42 46

25 25

08 38

01. Amazon Riverboat Exploration 02. Birds, Biodiversity and Biking in Provence 03. Carnivores of Madagascar 04. Cheetah 05. Costa Rican Coffee From Community to Cup 06. Diamondback Terrapins of Barnegat Bay 07. Elephants of Tsavo 08. Geology and the Shaping of the American Southwest 09. Macaws of the Peruvian Amazon 10. Mammoth Graveyard 11. Mapping Change in California’s Mountains 12. Meerkats of the Kalahari 13. Mountain Waters of the Czech Republic 14. New York City Wildlife 15. Puerto Rico’s Rainforest 16. Samburu Communities and Wildlife 17. Saving Kenya’s Black Rhinos

(USA) 3 Clock Tower Place Suite 100 Box 75 Maynard MA 01754-0075 USA Tel: +1 978 461 0081 Fax: +1 978 461 2332 info@earthwatch.org

(Japan) Sanbancho TY Plaza 5F Sanbancho 24-25 Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 102-0075 Japan Tel: +81 (0)3 3511 3360 Fax: +81 (0)3 3511 3364 info@earthwatch.jp

(Europe) Mayfield House 256 Banbury Road Oxford OX2 7DE United Kingdom Tel: +44 (0)1865 318838 Fax: +44 (0)1865 311383 info@earthwatch.org.uk

Earthwatch Institute (Australia) 126 Bank Street South Melbourne VIC 3205 Australia Tel: +61 (0)3 9682 6828 Fax: +61 (0)3 9686 3652 earth@earthwatch.org.au