Climate Change at Arctic s Edge Teen Team

Transcription

1 Climate Change at Arctic s Edge 2013 Teen Team

2 Dear Earthwatch Volunteer, Welcome to the Climate Change at Arctic s Edge expedition! Please read this expedition briefing to get to know us, the field staff, and the research project you will be working on. This multidisciplinary research effort has a the long-term goal of understanding the diversity and types of wetlands across the arctic treeline near Churchill, Manitoba, and how water quality and habitat character is related to the occurrence and distribution species that make these wetlands their home. Baseline measurements of the current state of key environmental factors in these wetland environments, and discovering how they relate to a changing climate, will lead to a more complete understanding of the wetland habitats used by species at the limits of their range. The outdoor work can be physically demanding, and you have to be able to deal with the changing weather conditions. Regardless of the conditions, we do our work, knowing that the Churchill Northern Studies Centre offers comfort, food, and shelter at the end of the day. Between the long days of data collection and lab work, we make time for you to take in some of the local attractions. We ll stop to celebrate the environment around us, by watching for wildlife including polar bears. The friendships built and the opportunities for us to learn from those that contribute their time and effort inspires us and helps to develop new project ideas. Please contact Earthwatch if you have any questions. We look forward to meeting you in Churchill! Yours Sincerely, LeeAnn Fishback, Ph.D. Scientific Coordinator, CNSC Ben Cash, Ph.D. Professor, University of Central Arkansas

3 Table of Contents General Information The Research Your Destination Daily Life in the Field Accommodations and Food Travel Planning Travel Tips Project Conditions Safety Project Staff Recommended Reading Participant Rights and Responsibilities Polar Bear Acknowledgment Form Communications Message from Earthwatch Images Brigitt Hausammann, Chris Parkinson, Bill Power, Joe Green 1

4 General Information Climate Change at the Arctic s Edge Earthwatch Scientists G. Peter Kershaw, Ph.D.; LeeAnn Fishback, Ph.D.; Ben Cash, Ph.D. Research Site Churchill, Manitoba, Canada Rendezvous and departure information is available in the print version of the briefing only. Expedition Dates Team 2: July 23 Aug. 2, 2013 Earthwatch Teen Teams are open to 15- to 18-year-olds (18-year-olds may participate if they finished their last year of high school in the previous school year). 16- and 17-year-olds may also participate on standard teams if accompanied by a parent or guardian. See Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age (pg. 17) for traveling advice for minors. 2

5 trip planner To do immediately Make sure you understand and agree to Earthwatch policies and participant responsibilities (see pg. 24). 90 days prior to expedition Complete and return your volunteer forms. Below are the specific forms required for this expedition: Earthwatch Participation Form for Teens Travel Form Polar Bear Form (pg. 27; it is provided in this briefing for your information only. You will be given a copy to sign when you arrive in the field.) European volunteers can download forms on: U.S./North American volunteers can download forms at: Australian volunteers can download forms on: volunteer_forms/ Japanese volunteers can download forms on: formdownload-i.html Note: If you have signed up for an expedition within 90 days of the start date, you must return your fully completed volunteer forms as soon as possible. Pay any outstanding balance for your expedition. Book travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning section, pg. 14, for details). If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, note that some policies require purchase when your expedition is booked (see the Insurance section, pg. 20, for more information). If traveling internationally, make sure your passport is current and obtain a visa for your destination country, if necessary (see the Passports and Visas section, pg. 17, for more details). Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for your project site (see the Health Information section, pg. 20). Bring your level of fitness up to the standards required (see the Project Conditions section, pg. 18). 60 days prior to expedition review the packing list (pg. 4) to make sure you have all the clothing, personal supplies, and equipment needed. 30 days prior to expedition Leave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with your parents, a friend, or a relative (see the inside back cover). Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets with your parents, a friend, or a relative. Confirm your travel arrangements. Read this expedition briefing thoroughly. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your Earthwatch scientist s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. However, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. Research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. To enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, Earthwatch will make every effort to keep you well informed before you go into the field. 3

6 expedition packing checklist Required Items General This expedition briefing Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents Passport and/or visa (if necessary) Certification of vaccination (if necessary) Documentation for travel by minors (if necessary) (see Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age in the Travel Tips section, pg. 17) Cellphone or calling card (with international calling capabilities if applicable) Credit card that may be used (internationally, if applicable) in the event of an emergency (travel delays, etc.) Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork Note: Chest waders will be provided for you by the staff. Please let Earthwatch know what size you are. 4

7 Your Earthwatch T-shirt Two pairs long pants lightweight, light-colored and quick-drying are best (mosquitoes love dark colors and can bite through tight clothing) Two long-sleeved shirts Two short sleeve shirts one or two pairs of wicking long underwear to wear under waders or beneath pants if the temperature drops significantly Sweatshirt and fleece jacket one jacket (please make sure your jacket will stand up to wear is windproof and waterproof) rain pants (make sure a pair of pants fits under your rain pants) rubber boots (the taller the better CNSC can provide these if you contact us) Two to four pairs of good-quality wool socks Comfortable walking or running shoes or comfortable casual shoes (hiking boots not required; closed-toe shoes are required for lab work) Bug jacket (note that several are available at CNSC) Windproof, warm mittens or gloves Baseball cap Light winter hat Clothing/Footwear for Leisure T-shirts and shorts or pants to wear inside Sandals (flip flops are okay) to wear inside one set of clothing to keep clean for recreational time and end of expedition Pajamas and slippers (or flip flops) Sweatshirt Field Supplies Small daypack to hold jacket, rain gear, camera, notebook, etc. Insect repellent spray (higher DEET content repels bugs more effectively) Water bottle(s) at least one-liter capacity Bandana Sunglasses Sunscreen lotion with at least SPF 30 Pen or pencils and notebook Bedding and Bathing Bedding and towels will be provided. Personal Supplies Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged) Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands while in the field) Personal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, etc.) and personal medications Miscellaneous Spending money Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries and extra bulb Optional Items Tank top Dry bag or plastic sealable bags (good for protecting equipment such as camera from dust, humidity, and water) Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands while in the field) Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery (if you bring a digital camera, bring your interface cables for downloading) Earplugs and eyemask for sleeping CD, DVD, external hard drive, or a memory stick with at least 4 GB of space. At the end of the expedition, we can collect the team s digital photos and burned them to whatever storage device you bring. Also bring any necessary downloading cables and card readers. Travel guide Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time Note: Required and optional items lists are accurate to the best of Earthwatch s knowledge at the time of publication. 5

8 The Research Climate Change at the Arctic s Edge The Story Global warming is most dramatically visible at the edge of the Arctic, where wetlands that sit on top of permafrost dominate the landscape. As the permafrost in this subarctic region thaws, carbon dioxide and methane greenhouse gases may be released, which in turn could increase the rate of global warming, with devastating implications for the planet. What happens to the carbon and permafrost here will impact not only the local plant and animal species, but species including us around the world. But the effects of such environmental changes on individual species remain an area of speculation. On this project, we investigate the impact on species in these wetlands, including two amphibian species, the wood frog and the boreal chorus frog. The study aims to understand the diversity and types of wetlands across the Arctic treeline, and how water quality and habitat character are related to the occurrence and distribution of species that inhabit these wetlands. By understanding how these species interact with their environment, we can get a better idea of how these species will react when global warming changes their habitat. Research Aims Isolated wetlands are bodies of water that have highly variable biological and hydrological characteristics. Because of the temporary character of some of these wetlands, the aquatic organisms differ from those of permanent bodies of water. One important difference is that they usually lack predators such as larger fish and invertebrates, which are a significant predatory component in aquatic systems. As a result, many organisms have developed specific life histories to take advantage of the characteristics of the wetland, and tend to have a proportionately high number of endemic species associated with them. Unfortunately, the importance of these wetlands has been historically overlooked because of their small size and isolation. The two short-term objectives for the Teen Team will be: 1) To examine the basic physical structure and biological components of the selected wetland habitats, including life history of the wood frog, boreal chorus frog, and stickleback fish. 2) To investigate the correlation between wetland habitat, water quality, and life history of these species. 6

9 The team may also collect additional data on habitat character, phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance and life history cycle as the summer progresses. How You Will Help During your 11 days in Churchill, you will spend most of your time walking in hip waders through shallow, mostly still-water wetlands. We will collect a wide range of physical, biological, and chemical data from each wetland. Our goal is to inventory each wetland for habitat characteristics for the species of interest, including fish and frogs. In addition, we ll conduct a survey of the wetlands in the area to understand spatial distributions of the habitat and species. You ll help us install continuously monitoring water quality equipment (YSI sensors), and temperature measures (HOBO data loggers) to record air temperature and relative humidity. Information collected by these instruments will be downloaded on a regular basis, with deployment and calibrations checks carried out regularly. You ll also help carry out habitat assessments and frog life history measurements at each site, which includes collecting plants and macroinvertebrates, and observing frog-calling dynamics. In addition, we will collect live fish to determine the species composition in these wetlands. Back at the lab, you ll help carry out detailed water quality measurements (using ph and conductivity meters, filtering samples for preservation, and other chemical tests) to assess nutrient status, dissolved oxygen, and biological productivity. Tadpole and fish samples will be identified, weighed, and enumerated for later confirmed identification and genetic lab work. The collected data will be uploaded to spreadsheets and statistics will be used to assess variability between the sites. Some volunteers will also return to the field to scout wetlands for the following day and set live traps to count fish populations. These tasks will depend on weather conditions, but we expect that there you will conduct approximately 60% field work, 30% lab work, and 10% data entry and manipulation. You ll process approximately 50 water samples and 500 biological specimens during the 11 days on site. 7

10 Your Destination About Churchill, Manitoba In many ways, Churchill is a place like no other you ll visit. For one thing, it s in a region of immense plant and animal diversity, at the crossroads of subarctic and boreal (woodland) habitats. It is on the seacoast within the Hudson Bay Lowlands, the largest peatland in North America and the third largest wetland in the world. The area is at the southern limit of the continuous permafrost zone, and much of the peat (partially decayed vegetation matter) is frozen and cannot decompose. The deposits of frozen peat can be 1,350 years old and more than two meters in depth. Many different biomes (communities of plants and animals) can be found here, including forest, forest-tundra, tundra, wetland, peatland, estuarine, and marine. This makes for a complex mix of species. Churchill s most famous animal inhabitants are its some 57,000 beluga whales and almost 1,000 polar bears: the town advertises itself as both the beluga whale and the polar bear capital of the world. Grizzly and black bears also make their homes in the area, along with different species of caribou and moose. Churchill has also been ranked as one of the top 10 bird-watching spots in the world. This diversity is partly supported by the high populations of mosquitoes and black flies that are prey for these birds (and irritants for researchers). Churchill also has lots of interesting history to share with visitors. It has served as a meeting place for many groups of people in the past, including those from three aboriginal 8

11 nations: the Inuit from the north, the Dené from the west, and the Cree from the south and east. There is also a long history of trade, military activity, and scientific research in Churchill that stretches back 300 years. Churchill has long been a popular spot for astronomical observation, and it is one of the best sites in the world for viewing the northern lights. Today, visitors can see a number of archeological and historic sites in the area. The Eskimo Museum has one of the world s largest collections of Inuit artifacts and carvings. Even though Churchill is a small town, there s plenty to do. You ll take time out to catch sunsets, check out unusual bird sightings, caribou, and other wildlife, enjoy the flowers, and generally soak up as much of the local environment as time possible. 9

12 Daily Life in the Field Plans and Policies You ll get plenty of learning opportunities on this expedition: you may hear talks on local permafrost landforms, the ecology of polar bears, whales, species migration, the significance of the project to the community, and climate change monitoring in general. While you ll spend most of your time on research tasks, you ll always have the chance to ask questions, enjoy the scenery, and take in the majesty of the northern treeline. In this pristine environment, there are endless opportunities to view little-seen wildlife and plants. The project is based out of the Churchill Northern Studies Centre (CNSC), which was established 37 years ago to facilitate research, and you will have the opportunity to interact with many other scientists conducting research in the area. It is not uncommon for volunteers to sit at a cafeteria table with scientists and have a conversation directly with them about their studies. These researchers are also likely to give informal lectures during which in-depth discussions can carry on for hours. You will be in the midst of an intellectual environment unique to a center like CNSC. Recreational Time: Usually, on the fifth or sixth day of the expedition, the team will have a recreational day (the exact day will depend on weather and research activities). The teams will have the opportunity to visit the town of Churchill, where you can participate in a number of organized activities, including whale watching (approx. $100CAD, depending on the boat and number of people); a tour of Fort Prince of Wales, a national historic site (approx. $80CAD, including the boat trip across the Churchill River); river kayaking ($150 CAD); browsing through the Eskimo Museum ($10CAD donation); a regional natural history tour (approx. $80CAD); or simply souvenir shopping. All activities are seasonal and weather dependent. Additional Policies The Churchill region is polar bear country, and significant safety issues exist whenever we are out of doors. The CNSC is 23 kilometers (14 miles) east of the town of Churchill, and consequently, volunteers must be accompanied by a CNSC staff member or the Earthwatch scientist, who will carry bear deterrents, before being allowed to go out of doors during free time. When you arrive on site you will hand in Churchill Northern Studies Centre s Polar Bear Information Acknowledgement Form (see pg. 27 of this briefing). CNSC is a non-smoking facility. Minors are not permitted to smoke anywhere on the property. Additionally, Earthwatch Teen Team volunteers are not permitted to smoke throughout the duration of their expedition. Earthwatch Recreational Time Policy Earthwatch will accompany teen participants from the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. If there is a recreational day during the expedition, the project staff and/or Teen Team facilitator will supervise a planned team activity or a small choice of supervised recreational activities that have been vetted and comply with Earthwatch standards. You will also have the option of remaining at the project accommodations to rest, provided supervision is possible. 10

13 ITINERARY AND DAILY SCHEDULE Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Day 1 Introduction and orientation, getting off to a gradual start to enable volunteers to recover from travel. A meeting will be conducted to outline the objectives and methods of the team and guidelines for safety, and to provide a preliminary schedule. After this, the team will normally take a brief walk to become familiar with the site and test outdoor gear. Day 2 Demonstrations of equipment and training. If this is completed in the morning, the team will practice field methods in the afternoon. Days 3 10 Each day will begin with a briefing to outline the day s activities. At least half of each day will be spent at the research sites collecting data, while the remainder of the day will be used for sample processing and data entry. Depending on the tasks, we might make an evening trip to catch the sunset or take other excursions. There will normally be an evening briefing to review the day s activities followed by a lecture or lab or data entry work. On the last evening, we ll have a wrap-up seminar with an overview of the data, comments, recommendations, and discussion about the significance of your contributions to the overall research picture. A typical day in the field Time Activity 6:45 a.m. Morning briefing, review of assignment progress, new assignments outlined 7:00 a.m. Breakfast and clean up 8:00 a.m. Prepare for daily field program 8:30 a.m. Depart for field 12:00 noon Lunch at CNSC 1:00 p.m. Depart for field 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Return from field, begin laboratory work, data entry, etc. 5:30 p.m. Dinner and clean-up 7:00 p.m. Lab work, data entry, etc., optional field or lab/recreational activities/lectures 9:00 p.m. Relax, read, socialize, go to bed, etc. Note: Morning and afternoon or evening schedules may be reversed, depending on weather and project needs. Day 11 Travel day 11

14 Accommodations and Food About Your Home in the Field Sleeping You ll stay in dormitory rooms that house up to four people in bunk beds. Rooms will be single gender. Bathrooms The CNSC water is trucked to the facility, so we practice water-saving measures. There is running water throughout the facility, which includes low-flow showers and flush toilets, as well as composting toilets in the dorm area. You can do laundry for a fee of $6.00 per load. Electricity The CNSC has reliable electricity, and outlets type A or B, 110 volts, and 60 hertz. You should bring along any necessary converters and adapters. Internet There is wireless Internet throughout CNSC, as well as a limited number of hard-wire connection site available at no additional charge. There are a number of desktop computers in the quiet lounge. Facilities and Amenities CNSC has a library and reading room, a fully staffed cafeteria, a northern lights observation dome, moviewatching room, three classrooms, a herbarium, a research library, a computer room with Internet connection, a gift shop, a number of public telephones, and vending machines. In the office, there is access to fax and photocopy services. Mail is delivered to the post office daily. In the laboratory wing there are benches, drying ovens, and a variety other equipment. There is a workout room with a stationary bicycle, cross trainer, and weights. 12

15 Distance to Field Site All research sites are within 40 minutes of the CNSC. Transport is by van or SUV. Services and Restaurants in Walking Distance CNSC is not within walking distance of the town of Churchill. Food The kitchen is run by accredited cooks who, with help from volunteers, prepare all the meals. Food is served cafeteria style, and the dining area is shared by all users of CNSC. Volunteers will assist with after-meal clean-up. Meals are varied and usually include a choice of salads, desserts, and a vegetarian dish. We also have fresh bread and evening snacks. Special dietary requests can generally be accommodated with prior notification. Below are examples of the foods you might expect. Following are examples of the foods you may find in the field. Variety depends on availability, and this list only gives a general idea of food types. Please be flexible. Breakfast: Eggs, bacon, toast, porridge, pancakes, French toast, sausages, fresh and dried fruit, yogurt, muffins, cold cereals, toast Lunch: Soup, sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, burgers, French fries, fruit Dinner: Meatloaf, spaghetti, roast beef, turkey, lasagna, fish, potatoes, pork chops, pizza, chicken, salads, Jello, cake, pie, fresh fruit, cooked vegetables, stew Snacks: Leftovers, fruit, popcorn available through vending machines Beverages: Juice, milk, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water, soda available for sale Water: All water is drinkable. Cold, fresh water is available for free in the cafeteria at all times (you can also buy bottled water at CNSC). Special Dietary Requirements Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian or vegan diets, diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other serious food allergies) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms. Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed and can be very difficult due to availability of food, location of field sites, and other local conditions. 13

16 Travel Planning Rendezvous and Departure Information The rendezvous and departure information for this project has been removed from this web version of the expedition briefing. It is only available in the printed version of the briefing. Please do not make any travel arrangements to join an expedition without having full and up-to-date travel information from Earthwatch. Full rendezvous details, including places and times are available from Earthwatch upon request prior to registration for an expedition. Please use the Contact Us button on the top right-hand corner of the website to get in touch with an Earthwatch representative, who will be very happy to help you. 14

17 Travel Tips Suggestions for the Road Luggage Lost and delayed luggage: If your luggage goes astray, please tell the airline to deliver luggage to Calm Air airlines in Winnipeg and have them deliver it to the Churchill Northern Studies Centre, 1 Launch Road, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada (204) General considerations: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Many airlines have strict baggage policies. Please check with your airline(s) on baggage weight limits, liquid restrictions, fees for checked baggage, etc. The flight from Winnipeg to Churchill has a restriction of two checked bags (maximum weight of any bag is 23 kilograms/50 pounds) plus two carry-on bags (combined weight of 10 kilograms/23 pounds). The combined weight allowance, including carry-on luggage, is 32 kilograms/70 pounds. You can pay for additional bags, but they might end up on another flight and therefore run an increased risk of delay or getting lost. If you check more than one bag, you must identify one bag as priority to ensure that critical items are in this bag. Transferring luggage: If you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections within the country of your destination, you must collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the destination country. After proceeding through customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination. Your Destination Language: The two official languages of Canada are English and French, although the degree of fluency in each varies depending on the province. Both Manitoba and the Northwest Territories are primarily Englishspeaking. Time zone: Central Time Zone: GMT/UTC -6 (-5 Daylight Savings Time). For time worldwide with GMT/UTC, see Telephone dialing codes: When calling Canada from another country, dial the country s international dialing code, followed by (1) and the number. When calling within Canada, you must still dial the country code (1) before dialing the number. When calling another country from Canada, dial (011), followed by the other country s country code and the number. Note: check with your cell phone provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes you may need; many providers have dialing procedures that may differ in whole or in part from these directions. For additional information, see Most cellphones will not work in Churchill, and there is no cellphone coverage at the CNSC. Money Matters Local currency: Canadian dollar (CAD) Personal funds: Businesses and the CNSC accept Visa and MasterCard credit cards and traveler s checks. U.S. currency is accepted at most businesses in Churchill, but other currencies should be exchanged at the Winnipeg Airport or at a bank. You are advised to carry about $200CAD. Virtually all rail, bus, and airport terminals (except in Churchill) have ATMs that dispense Canadian dollars. There is an ATM in Churchill that will be accessible on the day the team goes into town, but there is not one at CNSC. 15

18 PASSPORTS AND VISAS Will You Need a Passport? Most volunteers traveling from outside Canada will require a passport valid for at least six months beyond the dates of travel. Will You Need a Visa? Citizens of the U.S., EU, Australia, Canada, and Japan DO NOT need tourist visas for entry. Citizens of other countries should check with their travel agent or a visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) If you are traveling from outside the U.S. and have a stopover in the U.S., you must register through the ESTA program. ESTA is used to screen short-term visitors who are citizens of the 36 countries eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). For a list of those countries, see without_1990.html#countries. Visitors are required to complete ESTA at least three days before traveling to the US. Once approved, the authorization is valid for up to two years if the individual s passport does not expire in the meantime. Submit applications through the ESTA website: esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. As of publication, ESTA costs approximately US$ Citizens of countries covered by the VWP traveling to the US for tourism or business for 90 days or less do not need to obtain a visa provided they have a valid passport (for exceptions see the VWP Quick Reference Guide: QuickReferenceGuide.pdf). Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas ONLY Type of visa to get: TOURIST The purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Immigration officials do not always understand the concept of a working vacation or volunteering. Words such as working, volunteering, research, or scientific expedition can raise questions concerning the country s foreign labor laws and about official scientific research permits and credentials, etc., to which volunteers will not be equipped to respond on their own. All required research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper authorities. Where to get a Visa: Contact the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate to find out how to apply. Please note that this process can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process. Suggested Agencies In the U.S.: Travisa; ; In Europe: CIBT, Inc. (U.K.); info@uk.cibt.com; www. uk.cibt.com In Australia: Ask your travel agency if it can send your visa application on your behalf. Required information: You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay), a visa application and immigration form, two to four passport-size photos, and payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Contact information: You may be required to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form: LeeAnn Fishback Churchill Northern Studies Centre 1 Launch Road Churchill, MB, R0B 0E0 Canada fishback@churchillscience.ca Cost of a visa: Generally between US$40 and $100, but varies from country to country and can cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee. Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have procedures at entry and exit points to protect minors. Thus, if a minor will be traveling with only one guardian or alone, he or she may need a notarized letter from all legal guardians stating that the minor may travel unaccompanied or in the presence of a single guardian. If necessary, this letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter should state that. Airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors, e.g., a birth certificate or a notarized letter like the one described above. Important: Requirements of specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You must keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If the minor is refused entry into a country or onto a flight because of lack of documentation, there is nothing Earthwatch can do to help. 16

19 Project Conditions The Field Environment General Conditions The information that follows is as accurate as possible, but please keep in mind that conditions may change. The majority of the sites are gravel, peat over sand, or peat over permafrost. In general, the area ranges from flat to hummocky. The wetlands have standing surface water for the most part, and some have mucky bottom sediments. On average, temperatures at Churchill over the summer period range from -6 to 30 C (20 F to 85 F). There is very little humidity, except during periods of fog when the wind comes off the Bay, and the rainfall during the summer is usually around 2.5 inches (5 centimeters) per month. Spring begins in June with the end of snowfall and melt, while late August is the beginning of autumn and brings cooler temperatures. The average temperature, however, is often misleading since it can feel like autumn in the morning and the height of summer in the afternoon following a shift in the wind. Summer Humidity: Little (except during periods of fog), very dry in February Temperature Range: -5 C/23 F to 28 C/82 F Altitude: 0 to 39 m/130 ft above sea level Rainfall: 0-6 cm/0-2.5 in per month Eligibility Requirements All participants must be able, independently or with the assistance of a companion, to: Follow verbal and/or visual instructions. Wear all protective equipment recommended or required by industry standards. Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather and in the potential presence of wild animals and insects. Tolerate temperatures as high as 28 C/82 F. Carry personal daily supplies, such as lunch, water, and some small field equipment, of up to 9 kg/20 lbs. Get low enough to undertake ground-level activities such as water sampling, dipnetting invertebrates, vegetation sampling, and frog catching, up to 12 hours per day. Traverse varying terrain from level hard surfaces to undulating, hummocky ground. Total time hiking is up to four hours per day. Promptly alert project staff about any injuries or discomfort (bruising, difficulty breathing, etc.) as soon as it occurs. 17

20 POTENTIAL HAZARDS Hazard Type Transportation Walking/Hiking/Climbing Terrain Wildlife Climate/Weather Insects Distance from Medical Care Associated Risks and Precautions Volunteers will be transported between Churchill and CNSC via vehicles owned and maintained by the center. The road is gravel and its condition will vary depending on the weather. All drivers hold licenses required by the Canadian government and vehicles meet provincial safety standards with the addition of shortwave radios to talk to the base. Hiking trails to the research sites vary from unstable ground with tall shrubs to open hard ground. Work will be conducted in wetlands, and volunteers will be wearing neoprene hip or waist waders. All volunteers will be hiking in the field, and there is risk of strains, sprains, and breaks due to falls. Trails are well marked and the volunteers will be traveling as a group, but the footing can be slippery, especially with frost or light snow or rain. The Churchill region has a large concentration of polar bears. Consequently, the teams will have to be near a vehicle equipped with a radio and armed with suitable deterrents at all times. Project staff will have a number of polar bear deterrents, ranging from noise-makers to firearms. CNSC has thorough safety standards in place for the use and management of firearms. For safety considerations, it will not be possible to avoid being in the presence of firearms. Volunteers will not handle or use the firearms. The Earthwatch scientist and other field staff (NOT volunteers) will carry deterrents. The sun can be quite intense. Even on an overcast day, you are at risk of sunburn; you should bring plenty of good-quality sun block and you will also want to have lip sun and wind block. Also, the environment is dry year round, so volunteers should drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Mosquito and black fly populations can be very dense in summer and autumn. There is no evidence of West Nile virus in the Churchill region, although it is present in southern Manitoba. Take precautions to prevent mosquito bites by using insect repellant and wearing long-sleeved shirts or bug jackets and head nets while in the field. Black flies bite and inject an anticoagulant and are generally very irritating. If you suspect you might have an allergic reaction to their bites, bring an antihistamine. The nearest hospital is 23 kilometers (15 miles) away from the project site, and it may take up to an hour to arrange transport and reach the hospital. If you have a chronic condition which could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma, etc.), or if you are pregnant, please discuss your participation on this expedition with your physician. 18

21 Safety Health Information Routine Immunizations All volunteers should have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and varicella (if you have not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only. Earthwatch can only provide details regarding suggested vaccinations, and we are not a medical organization. Project Vaccinations REQUIRED: If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination. Advice Regarding Diseases Traveler s diarrhea affects many international travelers. Please see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( or the World Health Organization ( websites for more information on this condition and how to avoid it. A note on vaccinations and treatment: West Nile Virus: West Nile is a mosquito-transmitted virus. Several cases of West Nile virus are reported each year from southern Manitoba; however, as of the printing of this expedition briefing, no cases have been reported in northern Manitoba, where the Churchill teams take place. Emergencies in the Field Field staff members carry handheld radios to communicate with CNSC, from where someone would call the hospital for guidance in an emergency. There is always a vehicle available in the field, and a number of first aid kits are maintained at CNSC. Anyone with a medical emergency will be evacuated directly to the hospital in Churchill. If the situation is severe, a helicopter can be used to transport the injured person. In the event of a dangerous encounter with a polar bear, the animal will be deterred using standard procedures and the team will leave the area and report the incident to CNSC. Physician, nurse, or EMT on staff: Project staff members are not medical professionals. Staff certified in safety training: Peter Kershaw: Heartsaver AED (Level C), Medic First Aid LeeAnn Fishback: Wilderness First Aid, CPR (Level C) Nearest healthcare: Churchill Regional Health Authority Churchill, Manitoba R0B 0E0 Tel: kilometers (15 miles) away, 40 minutes by vehicle INSURANCE MedEvac assistance, advice, and insurance are included in the contribution you pay to Earthwatch. The insurance covers your travel medical risks, including medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, while you are traveling. It also provides trip cancellation insurance and baggage and personal money insurance. It doesn t provide personal liability insurance. This coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during travel to and from your expedition. (Note: For U.S. volunteers, the coverage is valid only when the expedition is over 100 miles (160 kilometers) from your place of residence. For Australia volunteers, the coverage is limited if the expedition is less than 50 kilometers from your place of residence). This insurance policy is secondary to your existing health insurance policy (e.g., NHS in the U.K., Medicare in Australia). Because of different governing laws in each country, policies are specific to each regional Earthwatch office. Please check with your sign up office about your insurance coverage. If you signed up through Earthwatch U.K. or Earthwatch Japan, visit: 19

22 If you signed up through Earthwatch U.S., visit: www. earthwatch.org/insurance. If you signed up through the U.K., U.S., or Japan: If you have additional vacation time before and/or after your Earthwatch expedition that forms part of your overall time away from your place of residence, this additional vacation time is not covered under this policy. If you signed up through Earthwatch Australia, visit: www. earthwatch.org/australia/expeditions/insurance/ or contact Earthwatch Australia. Please refer any queries regarding Earthwatch s policy to Earthwatch s Operations Department at or insurance@earthwatch.org. Emergency Medical and Evacuation Assistance Emergency medical and evacuation assistance from CEGA Medical, a 24-hour international service, is also included in your contribution. Please see the contact information in the Medical and Security Assistance Helpline Numbers section on the inside back cover. You can also call CEGA for non-emergency information before your trip, such as advice on visas and vaccine requirements. 20

23 Project Staff Your Resources in the Field Peter Kershaw, B.E.S., M.E.S. (Waterloo), Ph.D. (Alberta) specializes in the impacts of anthropogenic disturbances (e.g., borrow pits, vehicle tracks, and oil spills) and fire on tundra and forest ecosystems, in addition to permafrost landforms responses to climate change. He was on the faculty at University of Alberta in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences since 1981, and retired in His main field sites have been in the western arctic along the Mackenzie River valley and in the Mackenzie Mountains, where he has conducted research since the early 1970s. In 2000, he began long-term studies in association with the Churchill Northern Studies Centre. He has published papers on vegetation responses to anthropogenic and natural disturbances, as well as environmental parameters (snowpack, temperature, permafrost), which largely determine the timing and type of recovery of these communities. He has also done a variety of interviews on his research for both national and local media (CBC radio, CIUT radio and The Canadian Press). LeeAnn Fishback, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. (Western) is an environmental geochemist focusing on freshwater lake and pond water chemistry in arctic and subarctic regions. She lives in Churchill, Manitoba full time as a northern field research scientist. Her passion for the north has grown over the past 20 years, and she enjoys living in the remote areas of the country. LeeAnn has been the scientific coordinator at CNSC for the last ten years. In addition, she is an adjunct professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Winnipeg in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she teaches and supervises students. She enjoys the rigors of winter, including snowmobile rides, snowshoeing, and curling up with a good book on a blizzard day. Ben Cash, B.Sc., M.Sc, Ph.D. (Mississippi) is a wetland ecologist specializing in the ecology of vertebrate species adapted to wetland habitats. His experience ranges from the study of basic ecology and diversity of ephemeral wetlands in the southeastern U.S. coastal plain, to water quality measurement and ecology of natural oxbow lakes in the Mississippi Delta. He has worked in Churchill for ten years researching the biology of the wood frog and boreal chorus frog as well as the stickleback fish. Ben began his diverse biological training at Piedmont College in northeast Georgia. He then obtained his M.S. from Georgia Southern University, where his research involved describing the amphibian and reptile communities of isolated, temporary wetlands in the southeast Atlantic Coastal Plain. Finally, at the University of Mississippi, Ben received a Ph.D. for his research on behavioral and physiological aspects of the biology of slider turtles. He will supervise collection of physical and biological data in the field and laboratory. An Earthwatch Teen Team facilitator will also accompany your team from the time you step off the plane for the rendezvous until the end of the expedition. If you have any questions or problems, such as issues with another volunteer, homesickness, or an emergency back home, please talk to your facilitator. Follow your facilitator s advice on safety and personal conduct. All facilitators have experience teaching and leading groups of teenagers. Remember, your facilitator is there for you. (Teen: Facilitator ratio is approx. 6:1) Several students and interns working at the CNSC will also be involved in supporting the fieldwork component of these Earthwatch teams. All students and interns will be introduced on site. Note: Staff schedules are subject to change. 21

24 Recommended Reading Your Resources at Home resources Books Mcghee, R. Ancient people of the Artic. Vancouver: UBC Press, Stirling, I. Polar Bears: The Natural History of a Threatened Species. Markham, ON: Fitzhenry & Whiteside, Sturtevant, W.C. (ed.) Handbook of North American Indians. Volume 6 Subarctic, Volume 7 Arctic. Washington, DC: Smithsonian Institution, Anything by author Barry Lopez. McGoogan, K. Fatal Passage. Toronto: Harper Collins Publishers Ltd., McGoogan, K. Ancient Mariner. Toronto: Harper Collins Publishers Ltd., Mowat, F. Never Cry Wolf. Toronto: Seal Books, Also, Lost in the Barrens and many others by this author. Field Guides Chartier, B. A Birder s Guide to Churchill. Colorado Springs: American Birding Association, Inc., Field Guide to the Churchill Region, Manitoba. Ottawa: Geological Survey of Canada, Jehl, J.R. Birdlife of the Churchill Region: Status, History, Biology. Victoria, BC: Trafford, Johnson, K.L. Wildflowers of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Region. Winnipeg: Manitoba Museum of Man and Nature, Johnson, D., Kershaw, L.J., MacKinnon, A., and J. Pojar. Plants of the Western Forest: Boreal and Aspen Parkland. Edmonton: Lone Pine Publishing, 2009 Project-related Websites Peter Kershaw: CNSC: Tundra wetland ecology blog: blogspot.com/ Climate science: Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, 2007: contents.html Project Field Report Each Earthwatch-supported project submits a report on past research and results. The most recent field report for this project is available online at FieldReportpdf/Kershaw_FieldReport2009.pdf. Note that reports are not available for all projects. Earthwatch s Volunteer Resources Please see Earthwatch s Volunteer Resources pages for additional information on: Travel agencies with whom Earthwatch volunteers can get preferential rates Recommended kit and clothing providers Recommended travel booksellers Volunteers who sign up through our U.S. office, visit: Volunteers who sign up through our U.K. office, visit: Social media: Find Earthwatch on Facebook at www. facebook.com/earthwatch, follow us on Twitter earthwatch_org, and see videos of many Earthwatch expeditions on YouTube at earthwatchinstitute. If you re on Twitter, use the hashtag #globaltweet when in the field with Earthwatch to help literally put your work on the map of worldwide volunteering efforts. We also invite you to use the Facebook and TurnTo plug-in features right on our website s expedition pages to connect with other volunteers and staff. 22

25 Participant Rights and Responsibilities This document contains important information concerning Earthwatch Institute policies and participant rights and responsibilities for inclusion in an Earthwatch expedition. Please read this document thoroughly and sign the Liability Release section of your Earthwatch Participation Form to indicate that you understand and accept the risks inherent to your expedition and the policies, rights, and responsibilities enumerated in this document. You will not be permitted to participate in an expedition until Earthwatch has received the signed release form. Intellectual Property Rights It is permissible to share photos, videos, and stories of your expedition with family, friends, local media, and in a public forum. Sharing your new perspectives and experiences is welcomed and encouraged. However, please recognize that all information, data, and images shared or gathered in the course of your expedition s field work become the intellectual property of the Earthwatch scientist. Co-opting or plagiarism of data, images, or information gathered during an expedition for use in a scientific thesis, master s, or Ph.D. work, or for profit or for the academic or business use of a third party without the permission of the Earthwatch scientist is strictly prohibited. Please be aware that data gathered during the interviewing of local people become the intellectual property of the Earthwatch scientist. Earthwatch scientists have the right to place additional restrictions on your ability to share data or certain research-related images. Conversely, an Earthwatch scientist may give written permission to use data and images for academic or profitable activity. Please be sure to ask what is acceptable to the Earthwatch scientist. Fellows or scholarship recipients are sometimes required to submit a written report reflecting what they have learned on a project, sometimes as a step toward developing a curriculum. Earthwatch scientists have the right but not the obligation to review and edit materials involving information gathered on one of their expeditions. Discrimination Earthwatch does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law and respects participants right to privacy. However, you must be aware that local laws in countries in which Earthwatch operates may not be antidiscriminatory and that the possibility exists that local residents may not have an awareness of preferred practice regarding discrimination. Discrimination on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated on Earthwatch teams. Disruptive behavior or verbal, physical, or any other type of abuse or harassment will also not be tolerated. Violation of Earthwatch s nondiscrimination policy is grounds for expulsion from the program without a refund. Intimate relationships Earthwatch scientists, their staff, their colleagues, and their associates are prohibited from becoming romantically involved with participants during the entire duration of the period that the team is in the field. Romantic relationships that may otherwise seem permissible may eventually create an unpleasant or unproductive work environment and are therefore prohibited for the duration of an Earthwatch project. Sexual Harassment Please recognize that the relationship that exists between Earthwatch scientists and staff and participants is analogous to the student-teacher relationship. Therefore, please be aware of the following policies. Sexual harassment of participants by the Earthwatch scientist or Earthwatch staff is prohibited. Likewise, sexual harassment of other participants, Earthwatch field staff, or local people by participants is also prohibited. Sexual harassment infringes on an individual s right to an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtones of conduct either verbal or physical. Sexual harassment does not mean occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. Sexual harassment refers to conduct which is offensive, which harms morale, or which interferes with the effectiveness of Earthwatch expedition teams; such conduct is prohibited. Lewd or vulgar remarks, suggestive comments, displaying derogatory posters, cartoons, or drawings, pressure for dates or sexual favors, and 23

26 unacceptable physical contact or exposure are examples of what can constitute harassment. No one should be touched in areas that would be covered by a bathing suit. It is important to realize that what may not be offensive to you may be offensive to participants, the local population, or Earthwatch field staff. Any individual who feels subjected to sexual harassment or has any knowledge of such behavior should report it at once to the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff member. The Earthwatch scientist or Field Team Leader will notify Earthwatch when an accusation of sexual harassment or abuse is made or when such conduct is witnessed. All reports of sexual harassment will be handled with discretion and will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Any participant who is found to have engaged in conduct constituting sexual harassment will be removed from the expedition at his or her own expense. If a minor is involved in allegations of sexual harassment, his or her parents or guardians will be contacted. Drugs Laws on drug use in most countries are severe and may impose lengthy prison terms or the death penalty. The manufacture, possession, use, purchase, or sale of illegal drugs or other illegal substances while on an Earthwatch expedition is strictly prohibited. Prescription drugs may only be purchased and used by the individual indicated on the prescription in keeping with their intended use guidelines. Alcohol Local statutes, customs, practices, ordinances, and regulations with regard to the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol are applicable to all participants and project staff on Earthwatch expeditions. Participants and project staff on Earthwatch expeditions must comply with the law of the country in which a project is located regarding the minimum age required to consume alcohol. In addition, restriction on the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol may be set by the Earthwatch scientist. Any restrictions on the consumption of alcohol should be clearly outlined by the project staff in the on-site briefing to participants at the start of the project and in the expedition briefing. Consumption or possession of alcohol or smoking is not permitted on any Earthwatch Teen Team, regardless of local law. Excessive consumption of alcohol by staff or participants is not acceptable on any Earthwatch project. Intoxication can jeopardize personal safety, in addition to the safety of the team. It can also cause delay and hinder response in the event of a crisis or emergency situation. Earthwatch staff and the Earthwatch scientist have the discretion to remove individuals from the project who consume alcohol in a time and manner that endanger the safety and/or productivity of the expedition. Minors Earthwatch considers participants less than eighteen (18) years of age to be minors. Minors are not permitted to participate on any of Earthwatch s standard teams unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, in which case the minimum age is fifteen (15). Guardians accompanying minors on standard teams must be 21 years of age or over. Minors on standard teams do not receive additional guidance or supervision from Earthwatch beyond what is offered to the adult participants. The total number of minors on standard teams may be limited on a project by project basis; this will be noted in the expedition briefing. A maximum of two minors may accompany each parent or guardian on a standard or Family Team. Earthwatch has developed teams specifically for 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds ( Teen Teams ) as well as teams specifically for families ( Family Teams ) with children as young as 10 years. These teams focus on the same research activities and have the same expectations as our regular teams, but with more facilitation and support. Exceptions for some projects may be made at the discretion of Earthwatch and the Earthwatch scientist. Due to a more in-depth screening process for certain programs that select candidates based on school year rather than age, there may be 18-year-olds fielding on the same team as 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds. Please be aware that some Earthwatch projects do not allow participation by minors in any circumstance. Participants and Driving Participants are not allowed to drive project vehicles (including motorcycles or all terrain vehicles) or aircraft during an expedition. In select circumstances, participants may be able to drive boats under the direct supervision by project staff. These circumstances are predetermined by project staff in collaboration with Earthwatch. Participants must respect the restrictions for boat driving in place for each project. If a project environment is such that participants can drive their own vehicles to the rendezvous, those who have driven themselves to the project may not drive their own vehicles to, from, or for project activities, including the transport of project equipment after arriving at the site. Participants who have driven themselves to the project may choose to utilize their own vehicles during recreational time, but project staff will brief them on any driving restrictions. All driving during recreational time is done at your own risk. 24

27 Please be advised that the only exception to the above driving restrictions is emergency situations. Riding in other participants vehicles is not covered under the participants insurance policy for the expedition. Riding in another participant s vehicle is done at a participant s own risk. In the Event of an Emergency In the event of emergencies, judgments must be made by Earthwatch field staff and participants. While Earthwatch makes an effort to ensure that qualified people make the most informed decisions possible, occasionally first aid may be administered and other immediate steps taken by expedition participants who are not licensed medical providers. Each Earthwatch expedition has safety protocols and emergency procedures in place. Earthwatch encourages team members (the field staff and participants) to exercise their best judgment with regard to their own safety and the safety of other team members. Other participants may perform Good Samaritan actions, or actions taken to assist fellow participants during emergency situations in the field. However, Earthwatch does not encourage or expect you to jeopardize your own safety or that of others in attempting to rescue or assist your fellow team members. Right of Refusal Earthwatch reserves the right to refuse an applicant s participation in an Earthwatch project at any time and to terminate any work being done by a participant and require the participant to vacate the project site if the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff member in his or her absolute discretion considers it appropriate. In this event, the participant (and his or her parents or guardians, if appropriate) will be responsible for arranging and paying for any accommodation, travel, or other arrangements which may be necessary following the termination of a participant s involvement in a project, for whatever reason, and will not be eligible for a refund. Earthwatch may not refuse an applicant s participation in a project for discriminatory reasons (race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law). However, an application may be denied in the interest of team compatibility or due to logistical limitations. Earthwatch will make reasonable efforts to accommodate participants with disabilities, and the organization endeavors to find appropriate expeditions for those participants who have physical limitations. Refusal of an applicant is an unusual event and is generally done either because of an applicant s failure to meet the essential eligibility requirements of a particular project or in the interest of team compatibility. In the event that an applicant is refused participation for health reasons, Earthwatch will refund in full any deposit or payment made toward the expedition. Earthwatch scientists have the right to refuse special requests, such as visits by media (film, photography, or print), special groups, or teams (students, donors, etc.), if they conflict with Earthwatch scientist schedules, safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team. Any participant found in violation of any of the policies described in this document ( Participant Rights and Responsibilities ) is subject to removal from the team at his or her own expense. By signing the Liability Release section of your Earthwatch Participation Form, you are indicating that you have read and understand the policies in this document. Removal of a participant from a team is at the discretion of the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff. In addition, Earthwatch will support the right of the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff to send a participant away from a project once in the field should his or her behavior compromise the safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team, or if the participant has violated a stated policy. In the event that a minor is dismissed from a project, Earthwatch will contact the participant s parents or guardians prior to his or her dismissal. Should a participant be removed from a team, he or she is responsible for any and all costs associated with departure from the team and will receive neither refund of the minimum contribution for the expedition nor any expenses incurred by participation on the expedition. (November 2012) 25

28 Polar Bear Acknowledgment Form Welcome to the Churchill Northern Studies Centre (CNSC). The Centre is located in an area of high polar bear concentration along the Hudson Bay coast, where bears congregate in the fall, awaiting ice formation. You should expect and be prepared to encounter a polar bear at any time of the year. Polar bears are inquisitive and unpredictable animals, and not afraid of people, so it is unwise to put yourself in a situation where you might encounter a bear. In an effort to reduce human-bear contact, the Centre has bear safety protocols in place. Following are several precautionary measures to reduce your risk in polar bear country. You are asked to read the following information carefully and sign the waiver if you understand all statements. The CNSC will provide bear safety information for you to read. It is for your protection and benefit that you read it carefully. The CNSC will instruct you on bear safety precautions soon after your arrival. It is important that you notify a CNSC staff member prior to leaving the building for any reason. Smoking is not allowed inside the building. Individuals who choose to smoke can do so just outside the main entrance at their own risk. All outside doors must be kept closed at all times. Bear bars are on outside windows. These are for your protection, and we ask that you do not deface them. If polar bears are seen outside, do not leave the building and please notify a staff member immediately. There is to be no camping of any kind and hiking or walking will be dependent upon the season and previous polar bear sightings. Researchers are expected to participate in additional polar bear safety training and are required to coordinate their activities with CNSC science staff. Bear deterrents are available from the CNSC office. At the discretion of the staff, they may be available for personal use. It is unlawful to feed or harass polar bears. The placement of food with the purpose of attracting, feeding, or holding polar bears is strictly prohibited. It is not permitted to approach a polar bear or active polar bear den closer than 100 metres. I have read the above statements, and agree that the CNSC has provided me with proper information about polar bear safety. I am aware of the risk in visiting an area of high polar bear concentration and I agree that the CNSC is not responsible for any human-bear conflict. I absolve the CNSC from any and all liability should I have a polar bear encounter. I understand that if I do not follow the aforementioned instructions, or those given to me by CNSC staff members, I may be asked to leave immediately. Signature Date Print Name CNSC Staff Revised May

29 Communications Contact Information Emergency Communications Members of the staff carry portable radios that connect to the base at CNSC. The field parties carry two-way radios for emergency communication, and all CNSC vehicles have a radio link to the base. The 24-hour contact number at Earthwatch in the U.S. is +1 (978) or +1 (800) (see the next page for calling instructions). Personal Communications For personal communications, there are a number of public telephones, and CNSC is equipped with wireless Internet. Access to is available free of charge, though Internet service can be inaccessible at times. In the office, there is access to fax and photocopy services. Mail is delivered to the post office daily and usually takes approximately two to three days to anywhere within Canada.There is a cellular tower in the Churchill area, but mobile phones do not work well at the CNSC. The cellular carrier in the area is MTS Allstream, which is not compatible with all networks. There is a clear view of the sky, so a satellite phone will work if you choose to bring one. Personal communication with outsiders is not always possible while participating in an expedition. Earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only. Volunteer Contact Info Address: Churchill Northern Studies Centre P.O. Box 610 Churchill, MB R0B 0E0 Canada Mail will not be forwarded to participants after their expedition has ended. Phone: + 1 (204) Fax: + 1 (204) cnsc@churchillscience.ca 27

30 Message from Earthwatch Dear Earthwatcher, Thank you for joining this expedition! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. And while you re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for over 40 years. You re in good hands. We hope this expedition will inspire you to get more involved in conservation and sustainable development priorities not just out in the field, but also when you return home. We encourage you to share your experiences with others, and to transfer your skills and enthusiasm to environmental conservation efforts in your workplace, community, and home. If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, contact your Earthwatch office. Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition! Sincerely, Larry Mason President and CEO Connect with other Earthwatchers! Find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ Earthwatch or find us on Twitter Earthwatch s 24-Hour Helpline If you need help at any time, call Earthwatch s 24-hour on-call duty officer in the U.S.: +1 (978) (800) Note: The 800-number works as a toll free call only for calls placed within the U.S. After business hours, leave your message with our live answering service. State that you have an emergency communication and leave a clear message with the name of the field program, your name, location from which you are calling, and if possible, a phone number where you can be reached. An Earthwatch staff person will be contacted and will respond to your call within one hour. Medical and Security Assistance Helpline Numbers (For assistance while in the field) When calling any of the helplines, please mention Earthwatch and policy reference number CEGA Emergency Medical & Travel Assistance: +44 (0) You may call this number collect or reverse charges if necessary in a medical emergency. Henderson Risk Security Assistance and Advice: +44 (0) axisenquiries@hendersonrisk.com 28

31 Earthwatch U.S. 114 Western Ave. Boston, MA www. earthwatch.org Phone: Toll-Free: Fax: Earthwatch U.K. Mayfield House 256 Banbury Rd. Oxford, OX2 7DE United Kingdom Phone: Fax: Earthwatch Australia 126 Bank St. South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia australia Phone: Fax: Earthwatch Japan Food Science Bldg.4F The University of Tokyo 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo , Japan Phone: Fax: