Snorkeling to Protect Reefs in the Bahamas 2013 Teen Team
Dear Earthwatcher, Many thanks for choosing to join our exciting project in the Bahamas. On behalf of the other scientists involved with this research, I want to welcome you I m sure you are as excited about the planned work as we are. I have worked on coral reefs in the Bahamas since 2002, and they are a beautiful and fascinating environment to explore. Through this project, you will get a chance not only to see the marine resources of the country, but also to learn a great deal about their biology and ecology, and of course to collect data that will directly contribute to our understanding of how they function and how we might best conserve them. We anticipate that your time in the Bahamas will be a varied and productive period. We will begin by training you in the various techniques we will use and on how to recognize the fish we will be surveying. Hopefully you will find that recognizing the species on a reef will make your time snorkeling much more enjoyable and rewarding. Following training, we will begin to collect data by snorkeling both in mangrove creeks and on patch reefs, and will also work on some studies in the fantastic wet lab (aquarium) facilities at the Cape Eleuthera Institute. Each day s data will then be entered into the project database, eventually leading to one of the most comprehensive data sets available and you will have contributed directly to it. The scientific team will then be able to analyze the data and make both scientific discoveries and management recommendations. Tropical fieldwork is hard work, with long days in the water, but very satisfying when you reflect on what has been achieved by yourself and the Earthwatch team. I look forward to working with you in the Bahamas! Yours faithfully, Dr. Alastair Harborne Marine Spatial Ecology Lab School of Biological Sciences Goddard Building University of Queensland St Lucia Campus Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia Tel: +61 (0)7 336 51671 Fax: +61 (0)7 336 51655 Email: a.r.harborne@ex.ac.uk or a.harborne@uq.edu.au Web: www.marinespatialecologylab.org/people/alastair-harborne/ Connect with other Earthwatchers on Facebook at www. facebook.com/ Earthwatch or find us on Twitter at @earthwatch_org
Table of Contents General Information...................... 2 The Research.......................... 6 Your Destination........................ 8 Daily Life in the Field.................... 10 Accommodations and Food............... 12 Travel Planning........................ 14 Travel Tips............................ 15 Project Conditions.......................17 Safety............................... 19 Project Staff........................... 21 Recommended Reading................. 22 Participant Rights and Responsibilities..... 23 Communications....................... 27 Message from Earthwatch................ 28 Images Earthwatch, Dr. Alastair Harborne, Debbie Winton 1
General Information Snorkeling to Protect Reefs in the Bahamas Earthwatch Scientists: Dr. Alastair Harborne, Dr. Rod Wilson, Dr. Andrew Gill, Dr. Katherine Sloman Research Site: Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI), Eleuthera Island, the Bahamas Expedition Dates Team 1 TEEN: June 25 July 4, 2013 Team 2 TEEN: July 5 July 14, 2013 Rendezvous and departure information is available in the print version of the briefing only. Teen Teams are open to 15- to 18-year-olds (18-yearolds 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. 2
trip planner To do immediately Book an appointment with a doctor; you ll need him or her to sign the Health section of your Earthwatch Participation Form. 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, including Water-Based Projects and Snorkel section Travel Form european volunteers can download forms on: www.earthwatch.org/europe/volunteerforms U.S./North American volunteers can download forms at: www.earthwatch.org/volunteerforms australian volunteers can download forms on: www.earthwatch.org/australia/expeditions/ volunteer_forms/ Japanese volunteers can download forms on: www.earthwatch.jp/getinvolved/condition/ 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. 21, 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 a friend or relative (see the inside back cover). Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets with a friend or 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
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, pg. 17) calling card or mobile phone (with international calling capabilities if applicable) credit card that may be used internationally in the event of an emergency (travel delays, etc.) Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork earthwatch T-shirt Sturdy, warm-weather clothes (e.g., T-shirts and shorts) Long pants and long-sleeved shirt for protection from insect bites Set of warm clothes Swimwear Rain jacket Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) Shoes that can get wet during mangrove work (e.g., old sneakers, wetsuit booties, reef walkers) Beach shoes (e.g., flip-flops) slip-on shoes are the most convenient to wear around campus, since you re asked to take off your shoes before entering most indoor spaces. 4
Clothing/Footwear for Leisure At least one set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition Field Supplies Snorkeling gear: a good-quality, well-fitting mask, a snorkel, fins, and a back-up mask strap a rash vest or rash guard (these are designed for swimming, snorkeling, and surfing, and are made of quick-drying material that gives good sun protection and blocks any stingers present in the water) Two one-liter water bottles Insect repellent spray Sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher Small daypack Beach towel Pens or pencils and a notepad Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries and extra bulb Bedding and Bathing Note: The project will provide sheets, pillows, and blankets. Bath towel 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 medications after-sun lotion Miscellaneous Spending money Optional Items camera, film/memory card(s), extra camera battery Three-millimeter-thick wetsuit: snorkeling during June and July does not normally require a wetsuit, but is recommended if you feel you are likely to get cold during extended periods in the water. hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition Drybag or plastic sealable bags (good for protecting equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water) Travel guide Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time Laptop (ideally with surge protector) Note: Required and optional items lists are accurate to the best of Earthwatch s knowledge at the time of publication. 5
The Research Snorkeling to Protect Reefs in the Bahamas The Story Coral reefs are hugely important ecosystems. They foster plant and animal biodiversity, help defend shores from storm and wave damage, and draw visitors to countries that depend on tourism. These benefits known as ecosystem services are particularly important because many of them support developing countries. But our use of reefs has led to declines in their health. Many reefs now suffer from the effects of global climate change, overfishing, and coastal development. Coral reefs are associated with seagrass beds, mangrove creeks, and lagoonal patch reefs (small reef areas in shallow water), all of which face the same threats and are just as important as the reefs themselves. How can we protect these fragile environments and still benefit from their resources? Marine reserves are one of the key tools. These areas, which are open for tourism but not for fishing and other destructive activities, can strengthen many types of tropical habitat. But for marine reserves to be successful, they must be well designed. Some guidelines do exist; most importantly, biologists know that strong marine reserves should include seagrass beds, mangroves, and coral habitats because of the importance of fish nursery habitats. However, most tropical seascapes include lots of mangrove creeks and coral reef areas. Which ones should be included in a marine reserve? Answering this question is critically important throughout the Bahamas and anywhere there are coral reefs in danger. Research Aims Marine biologists know some things to look for when choosing reefs to include in reserves, but we have little information to help us decide which mangroves and patch reefs should be prioritized for protection. On this project we aim to address these gaps in our knowledge by surveying many mangrove and patch reef sites (including both healthy and human-disturbed sites) to establish the properties of each, and in particular, which properties increase the abundance of fish. Fish abundance not only 6
gives us a sense of how well the habitats are sustaining the species that depend on them; it also tells us about reef health. Fish graze on algae (seaweed) that would otherwise overgrow corals. So, a healthy fish population keeps these algae in check, which in turn helps the coral flourish. Fish require many things to survive, including food and shelter from predators. For some species, all of these resources can be acquired from a single habitat, and they live there for their entire lives. Other species need to move as they grow. Some, for example, start their lives in nursery habitats: they settle as small fish into seagrass beds, which have few places for big fish to hide and, therefore, fewer predators. As the fish get bigger, they become too obvious to the predators that are present. They then often move into mangrove creeks, which have plenty of food and shelter. However, fish will eventually outgrow this habitat too, and then they migrate onto patch reefs and subsequently onto coral reefs, which are the optimal habitat for many adult fish. Studies have shown that reefs connected to mangroves may increase the weight of some fish species by more than 100%. Although we know this pattern of living allows fish to grow quickly and become large enough to survive on offshore reefs, we still know surprisingly little about how the process actually works. How far do fish move among habitats? What factors influence their choice of habitat patch? Are optimal habitats being lost because of coastal development and coral mortality? How does fishing of predators affect their populations? And how does the loss of crucial habitats actually impact fish for example, does the stress cause them to feed less effectively, grow more slowly, or reproduce less? Many of these questions are difficult to answer, but with your help we plan to make significant new discoveries. We expect this project to have several outcomes. First, we will produce a series of scientific publications documenting the research and informing other scientists of the findings. These results will also help us come up with more successful ways to design and manage marine reserves. We also work to create an educational legacy by showing locals our research in action, training students and young scientists, and of course, involving volunteers like you who make the research possible. How You Will Help Our research happens both in a lab setting and in the tropical habitats themselves. You ll help with the following: Mangrove creeks: These saltwater creeks near the sea, which host a distinctive community of trees and shrubs growing in the muddy bottom, are fascinating environments for volunteers, and all data can be collected by snorkeling. A small list of species will be allocated to each person for fish surveys. You will collect biophysical data such as flow rate, water depth, creek width, and density of mangroves. You will learn how to collect data such as creek length with the use of remotely sensed imagery. Patch reefs: As with the mangrove creeks, you will help conduct a fish survey on patch reefs, with each person assigned a small list of fish to identify and count. You will also collect associated biophysical data for each patch reef, which involves using underwater video cameras and measuring the dimensions of each reef. You may also assist in reviewing video footage to generate the required data. Data on fish and biophysical features collected by multiple teams will generate a uniquely detailed data set that will allow us to assess seasonal and interannual variation. Fish behavior in the aquarium: Aquarium experiments will examine the behavior of grazing parrotfish in conditions that simulate low-quality and high-quality mangrove and patch reef habitat, and in the presence and absence of a predator. This work will help us determine if and how overfishing and habitat degradation (e.g., the death of coral from disease) change the behavior of fish in nursery habitats. The behavioral experiments will be conducted mainly with the use of video cameras, and you ll help analyze the footage generated. Fish behavior in the wild: In order to extrapolate the results of the fish behavior experiments into the wild, your team will collect behavioral data (such as how many times parrotfish bite the reef) on patch reefs with different numbers of predators and varying habitat quality. The combination of the lab experiments and field observations will help us predict how fish behavior may change and how these changes may shape fish growth and reef health in the future. 7
Your Destination About the Bahamas The country of the Bahamas includes about 3,000 islands located in the Atlantic Ocean southeast of the state of Florida. Of the population of 350,000, about 85% are of African descent. Most of the rest of the population are descendants of British settlers who arrived in the 17th century and American loyalists who arrived during the American Revolution in the 18th century. Columbus made his first landfall in the Americas in the Bahamas in 1492. The study is conducted at the Cape Eleuthera Institute (CEI) on Eleuthera Island, a long (110 miles/180 kilometers), thin (as little as one mile/1.6 kilometers wide) stretch of land known for its beautiful beaches and coral reefs. Its population is approximately 8,000. Among its natural attractions are the Glass Window Bridge, the Hatchet Bay caves, Surfer s Beach, Ocean Hole, and Lighthouse Beach. The 25-acre Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, Eleuthera s first national park, has more than 171 species of indigenous plants. CEI hosts researchers and provides students and community members a chance to connect with the natural world of the Bahamas. Most of the staff members come from U.S. or the Bahamas, and staff and visitors speak English. The institute sits on a peninsula that provides a perfect setting for walking and biking (we have bikes and helmets available), the ideal ways to see the iguanas, birds, and other terrestrial wildlife of the area. CEI also has kayaks available for exploring the shoreline. The staff organizes occasional visits to other nearby islands for snorkeling and beach activities. You ll also get to meet some members of the local community, for example, when schoolchildren visit the site. You ll likely explore Eleuthera widely during research tasks and recreationally. 8
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Daily Life in the Field Plans and Policies You ll work under the leadership of the Earthwatch scientists or other experienced staff members, who will oversee data collection and make sure fish are identified correctly during surveys. You ll also have lots of learning opportunities: training will include identifying fish species seen in mangroves and on patch reefs and visually estimating their length, conducting fish surveys along transects, collecting biophysical data, filming and analyzing videos of quadrats (small plots marked off for study of plants or animals within the area) and predator behavior, and recognizing and recording fish behavioral patterns. There will also be many opportunities to learn about general reef ecology. 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
ITINERARY AND DAILY SCHEDULE Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Day 1: Arrival in late afternoon. Site and project orientation. Days 2 3: Introduction to training, as well as a swim test and snorkeling practice. Species identification and methods training. Both will involve visits to mangrove and patch reef habitats. Day 4 9: Data collection in mangroves, patch reefs, and aquaria, and data entry into the project database. This time will also involve continual review of species identification and survey methods. The Earthwatch scientists will sometimes give talks on other aspects of marine biology. One day or half-day will be recreational time. Day 10: Team wrap-up and review of achievements. Completion of remaining data entry. Departure. Typical daily schedule 6:30 a.m. Optional exercise sessions (run, swim, bike) for all CEI staff and visitors 8:00 a.m. Breakfast 9:00 a.m. Daily briefing 9:30 a.m. Depart to field (mangrove or patch reef site) or move to wet lab for aquarium experiments 12:30 p.m. Lunch 1:30 p.m. Depart to field (mangrove or patch reef site) or move to wet lab for aquarium experiments 4:30 p.m. Free time 6:00 p.m. Dinner 7:00 p.m. Data input, video analysis, daily debriefing, research talk 8:00 p.m. Free time 11
Accommodations and Food About Your Home in the Field Sleeping You ll stay at CEI in single-sex, dormitory-style rooms, each housing no more than ten people. Each room has bunk beds and basic shelving, electric ceiling fans, lights, and 110-volt outlets (you are welcome to bring electronic equipment); your bedding will be provided, but you need to bring your own towels. Bathrooms Each dorm has a communal toilet and washing area with multiple showers and sinks. Hot water is available. We actively encourage water conservation. Electricity As mentioned above, each dormitory has electric ceiling fans, lights, and 110-volt outlets. You are welcome to bring electronic equipment. Internet and Communications Wireless Internet access is available via a public computer terminal in the CEI office, as well as the research laptop and possibly personal laptops. Telephone and fax services are also available, although access may be limited by the large number of people using them. Any emergency communications will be prioritized. Facilities and Amenities The Island School adjacent to CEI has a library and is the location of the dining room that will be used for all meals. Distance to Field Site The field sites are close to CEI. It will typically take less than 30 minutes to patch reef sites by boat or to mangrove sites by boat or van. Services and Restaurants in Walking Distance The closest settlement is Deep Creek, which has a restaurant. A short van journey is required to reach Deep Creek. A resort complex within walking distance of CEI has a shop (but it is not always open). 12
FOOD Meals will be served buffet style in a central dining area, which is shared by volunteers, staff, students, and researchers. Local cooks will prepare three meals a day. All guests will help with basic cleaning duties on a rotating basis (once every few days). Snacks can be purchased from a store next door at the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Yacht Club. Below are examples of the foods you might find in the field. Variety depends on availability, and while this list provides general idea of food types, please be flexible. Breakfast: Cereal, bread and toast, fruit juice. Lunch and Dinner: A mix of traditional Caribbean food (e.g., rice and beans accompanying meat or poultry dishes), fresh salads, and American food (e.g., pasta, soup, hamburgers). Snacks: If you want to specific snacks, please purchase them before the expedition. You ll likely have a chance to purchase some snacks from the store next door at the Cape Eleuthera Resort and Yacht Club. Beverages: Juice, water, tea, and coffee will be available during mealtimes. Water: Always available from taps. Please bring refillable water bottles for personal use. 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
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
Travel Tips Suggestions for the Road Luggage Lost and delayed luggage: If your luggage goes astray, please instruct the airline to deliver the bags to Rock Sound Airport and to alert you of the delivery at Cape Eleuthera Institute, +1 (242) 334-8552. CEI staff will arrange for pick up from the airport as soon as possible. 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. 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. Time zone: GMT/UTC -5 (U.S. Eastern Standard Time). For time worldwide with GMT/UTC, see www.worldtimeserver. com. Telephone dialing codes: The Bahamas is part of the North American Numbering Plan, so it has the same dialing codes as the United States and Canada. When calling the Bahamas from another country, dial the country s international dialing code, followed by (1) and the number. When calling within the Bahamas, omit the (1) and dial the number. When calling another country from the Bahamas, dial (011), followed by the other country s country code and the number. 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. See www.kropla.com/dialcode.htm for more information. Money Matters Local currency: The U.S. dollar is legal tender in the Bahamas. Personal funds: Please bring all the funds you need in cash Eleuthera has few ATMs. Less than $200 should be required simply to cover any snacks and drinks. Your Destination Language: English Cultural Considerations: The Bahamas are culturally similar to conservative areas of the U.S. Please dress accordingly; e.g., no swimsuits in the dining area. Electricity: 120 volts, 60 hertz, both Type A and B plugs. For more information, see www.kropla.com/electric2.htm. Plug Type A Plug Type B 15
PASSPORTS AND VISAS Will You Need a Passport? Citizens of the United States and Canada must show proof of citizenship with either a passport or two forms of identification. One must have a photo. All volunteers under the age of 18 years of age may be required to have a notarized letter from all legal guardians allowing them to travel unaccompanied or with one parent. See Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age for more information. Will You Need a Visa? Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the EU, Australia, 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 www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990. html#countries. Visitors must complete ESTA at least three days before traveling to the U.S. 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: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. As of publication, ESTA costs approximately US$14.00. Citizens of countries covered by the VWP traveling to the U.S. 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 Quick Reference Guide: http:// travel.state.gov/pdf/vwp-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 Bahamanian 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; 212-613-2223; www.travisa.com 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: Cape Eleuthera Institute PO Box 29 Rock Sound, Eleuthera, The Bahamas +1 242 334-8552 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
Project Conditions The Field Environment Please show this section to a doctor when he/she is completing the Health section of your Earthwatch Participation Form. Be sure to discuss vaccination requirements with the doctor well in advance of your departure date. See the Health Information section (pg. 20) for vaccination information. To the doctor: This patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of which you and the patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of this patient s ability to meet the conditions detailed below in order to care for his or her health and safety, and to assess that he or she can participate fully and effectively. General Conditions The information that follows is as accurate as possible, but please keep in mind that conditions may change. There are essentially two seasons in the Bahamas: summer (May September) and winter (October April). Winter temperatures are around 21 24 C (70 75 F), with warm weather reaching up to 27 29 C (81 84 F) during the rest of the year. Summer days tend to get hot and muggy, and the winters are drier and cooler. The relative humidity is fairly high. The rainy season lasts from May to October, with most of the precipitation occurring as brief summer showers. The hurricane season spans the end of June through the end of November. Teams will be structured to allow you to adapt to the heat (i.e., less demanding tasks will be scheduled early during the trip). Humidity: Average 65% year round Summer temperature range: 27 C (81 F) to 29 C (84 F) Summer water temperature range: 26 C (79 F) to 30 C (86 F) Rainfall: Brief summer showers in May October Boat and water Conditions We ll use a basic skiff without a canopy or head (toilet). Bathroom breaks will be taken in the water. Water conditions should be relatively benign, since we work in a sheltered lagoon. You must wear a life jacket. Typical water temperature: 23 C (73 F) to 27 C (81 F) Typical water visibility: 10 m (33 ft) to 25 m (82 ft) Typical max. water depth in area: 2 m (7 ft) to 4 m (13 ft) Site diving type: sheltered lagoon Anticipated depth of snorkeling: 2 m (7 ft) to 4 m (13 ft) Anticipated number of snorkels per day: 0 2 Snorkel activities will be initiated from: boats Timing of snorkeling activities: day Egress into water: over edge of boat Eligibility Requirements All participants must be able, independently or with the assistance of a companion, to: Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion. wear all protective equipment recommended or required by industry standards. Learn to make and record observations of fish species, behaviors, and habitats. Be comfortable snorkeling in open water (two to three hours a day) where they are unable to stand on the bottom, and be comfortable using snorkeling gear (mask, fins, snorkel). Enter and exit the water from small boats. Work on or from a boat for about two to three hours per day with limited break options (e.g., no toilet on the boat, except for the ocean). Maintain a seated, upright position within the boat during transit, which can sometimes be bumpy (may be uncomfortable for individuals with back problems). Hike or wade along creek and mangrove study sites, which can range from ankle-deep to hip-deep water. Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather Endure tropical (hot and humid) work conditions. 17
POTENTIAL HAZARDS Hazard Type Transportation Walking/ Hiking/ Climbing Climate/ Weather Political/Social/ Cultural Animals Project Tasks Personal Security Swimming Snorkeling Working on a Boat Distance from Medical Care Associated Risks and Precautions Traffic accidents and injuries are always a hazard of road transport. Vans travel no faster than 35 miles (51 kilometers) per hour on public roads. Each passenger will have a seat and must wear seatbelts at all times. Volunteers will not drive; only CEI staff will operate vans and boats. The project involves some walking on rough terrain; risks include sprains, strains, or breaks due to falling or missteps. It also involves crossing or walking along mangrove creeks, potentially with fastmoving water. Project staff will highlight risks on site and curtail activities they judge too risky. Hurricane season starts in June, but most hurricane activity occurs in late August and September. Should a hurricane watch be issued for the Bahamas, the expedition will end and team members will evacuate to Miami, Florida. Project staff will not wait for a hurricane warning to evacuate. Because of the difficulties of getting off islands after a storm, staff will take the most conservative approach to ensure that volunteers don t experience undue stress or danger. Dehydration and sunburn are possible. You ll be briefed on proper clothing, sunscreen use, and fluid intake. Project staff will set an example and monitor participants for symptoms of exposure or dehydration. Take particular care when working during the hottest periods of the day. Because of the high humidity, those who use a hearing aid may find it doesn t work properly and may wish to purchase a hearing aid dehumidifier. Project staff will advise you on local culture and on what Bahamians find offensive. They will also enforce appropriate clothing and footwear for particular situations, e.g., in places of worship. Mosquitoes and sand flies are present on Eleuthera; insect repellent and/or long-sleeved shirts and pants can help protect from stings and bites. Fire coral, sea urchins, lionfish, jellyfish, and biting or territorial animals may be present in the water. All dangerous creatures will be introduced during the training period. Staff will warn you about correct lifting techniques for heavy equipment. Robbery is a risk outside the project site, for example, in Nassau before and after the expedition. Take taxis instead of walking and always be aware of your surroundings. Swimming is central to the research you ll conduct and is also possible during recreational time, and typical water-related risks will be present. A certified lifeguard will not be available at all times, but all staff members have boat and dive safety training. Volunteers may not swim alone. Snorkling has inherent risks, e.g., the effects of environmental conditions, nitrogen (for those who ve recently scuba dived), barotrauma, boat traffic, marine life, and risks specific to one s own physical history. When snorkeling, properly control your breathing to reduce the risk of hyperventilation and blackout. You must bring and maintain your own mask, snorkel, fins, booties, and exposure protection. Snorkel vests can be provided for those who prefer them or are required to use them. You must ensure that all gear is in good working order and that you are trained in appropriate responses if a failure occurs while in the water. The team may snorkel at night only under the direct supervision of staff. We will do a swim assessment at beginning of each team and assign tasks accordingly. An Earthwatch scientist or support staff will be present in the water at all times with you. The buddy system is always used. Swimming and snorkeling will only happen in calm seas. No one enters the water staff or volunteers if an Earthwatch scientist determines that conditions are unsafe. Boats will have safety equipment, including a personal flotation device (PFD) for each passenger. You must wear a PFD while the boats is moving. Staff will brief the team on boating risks and precautions (e.g., wet deck surfaces and the risk of sprains, strains, or breaks from falling on the boat). The nearest medical clinic is a 40-minute drive from the field station. Air evacuation is required to reach the nearest full hospital, in Nassau, which can take up to three hours. If you have a chronic condition that could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma), please discuss your participation with your physician. 18
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. RECOMMENDED: Typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B Emergencies in the Field Physician, nurse, or EMT on staff: Project staff members are not medical professionals. Staff certified in safety training: Dr. Alastair Harborne: emergency first responder Dr. Rod Wilson: mountain and outdoor first aid Dr. Andrew Gill: U.K. field first aid Annabelle Brooks: wilderness first responder Nearest hospital and clinic: Rock Sound Clinic Rock Sound +1 242 334-2226 (direct to doctor: +1 242 334-2115) 40 minutes by land Advice Regarding Diseases Traveler s diarrhea affects many international travelers. Diseases found in the Bahamas may include malaria, dengue fever, leptospirosis, and histoplasmosis. Please see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) or the World Health Organization (www. who.int/) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them. You can decrease your risk of most diseases above by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region. 19
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 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: www.earthwatch.org/europe/insuranceinfo. 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 978-450-1222 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
Project Staff Your Resources in the Field Earthwatch scientist Dr. Alastair Harborne is a coral reef ecologist at the University of Queensland in Australia. His research focuses on the processes affecting the abundance of reef fishes on coral reefs, and he also studies the landscape ecology of reefs and the design and effects of marine reserves. He hold a Ph.D. from the University of Exeter (U.K.) and has worked on coral reef ecosystems for nearly twenty years. A frequently published scientific author, he has also given interviews on coral conversation for mass media outlets like the BBC. He is an avid diver. Teams 2-4 Earthwatch scientist Dr. Andrew Gill lectures in applied aquatic ecology at Cranfield University in the U.K. where he also supervises the environmental water management option on the water management postgraduate program. Andrew earned his Ph.D. in fish behavioral ecology at Leicester University (U.K.). He belongs to many professional organizations, including the Fisheries Society of the British Isles and the Society for Ecological Restoration International. Team 1 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) Note: Staff schedules are subject to change. 21
Recommended Reading Your Resources at Home resources Books Humann, Paul. Reef Fish Identification: Florida, Caribbean, Bahamas, Third edition. Eugene, OR: New World Publications, 2002. Note: Will be available at project site. Nagelkerken, Ivan. Ecological Connectivity among Tropical Coastal Ecosystems. New York: Springer, 2009. Sheppard, Charles, Simon Davy, and Graham Pilling. The Biology of Coral Reefs. New York: Oxford University Press, 2009. Davidson, Osha Gray. The Enchanted Braid: Coming to Terms with Nature on the Coral Reef. San Francisco: Wiley, 1998. Jones, Steve. Coral: A Pessimist in Paradise. New York: Little, Brown and Co., 2007. Articles Mumby, Peter et al. Fishing Trophic Cascades and the Process of Grazing on Coral Reef. Science 133: 98-101. www.marinespatialecologylab.org/wpcontent/uploads/2010/11/mumby-et-al-science-2006. pdf. Mumby, Peter et al. Mangroves Enhance the Biomass of Coral Reef Fish Communities in the Caribbean. Nature 472: 533-536. www. marinespatialecologylab.org/wp-content/ uploads/2010/11/mumby-et-al-mangroves.pdf. Film The Blue Planet. BBC Planet, 2001. 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: www.earthwatch.org/volunteerresources Volunteers who sign up through our U.K. office, visit: www.earthwatch.org/europe/volunteerresources Social media: Find Earthwatch on Facebook at www. facebook.com/earthwatch, follow us on Twitter at @ earthwatch_org, and see videos of many Earthwatch expeditions on YouTube at www.youtube.com/ 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
Participant Rights and Responsibilities 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. 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 PhD work, or for profit or for the academic or business use of a third party without the permission of the Earthwatch scientist is strictly 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. 23
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 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 24
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. 25
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. 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) 26
Communications Contact Information volunteer contact info Address: Cape Eleuthera Institute c/o Twin Air 3406 SW 9th Avenue Fort Lauderdale Florida, 33315 Phone: +1 (242) 334-8552 Will be answered by an English speaker. Fax: +1 (954) 337-3799 Email: info@ceibahamas.org Emergency Communications CEI has email, phone and fax capabilities that are available to project staff and volunteers. Mail is slow to arrive at Eleuthera, but is sent out several times per week. CEI has standard protocols for emergencies (medical, approaching hurricane, etc). The project will use CEI communication equipment where appropriate (e.g., VHF radios on boats). Mobile phones also work on much of the island. The 24-hour helpline number at Earthwatch in the U.S. is +1 (978) 461-0081-752 or +1 (800) 776-0188 (see the opposite page for calling instructions). Personal Communications CEI has phone and fax facilities that may be used by volunteers by arrangement with CEI staff. Wireless Internet may be available (depending on group size), and those who don t bring computers may be able to use one at the site. Mobile phone coverage varies in the Bahamas, but may be possible (while expensive) for some networks. You are free to bring your own cellphone. 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. 27
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 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) 461-0081 +1 (800) 776-0188 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 560020011200. CEGA Emergency Medical & Travel Assistance: +44 (0)20 3059 8770 You may call this number collect or reverse charges if necessary in a medical emergency. Henderson Risk Security Assistance and Advice: +44 (0)20 3059 8772 axisenquiries@hendersonrisk.com 28
Earthwatch U.S. 114 Western Ave. Boston, MA 02134 info@earthwatch.org www. earthwatch.org Phone: 1-978-450-1246 Toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188 Fax: 1-978-461-2332 Earthwatch U.K. Mayfield House 256 Banbury Rd. Oxford, OX2 7DE United Kingdom info@earthwatch.org.uk www.earthwatch.org.uk Phone: 44-0-1865-318-838 Fax: 44-0-1865-311-383 Earthwatch Australia 126 Bank St. South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia earth@earthwatch.au www.earthwatch.org/ australia Phone: 61-0-3-9016-7590 Fax: 61-0-3-9686-3652 Earthwatch Japan Sanbancho TY Plaza 5F Sanbancho 24-25, Chiyoda-ku Tokyo 102-0075 Japan info@earthwatch.jp www.earthwatch.jp Phone: 81-0-3-3511-3360 Fax: 81-0-3-3511-3364