Project details:
The Jatun Sacha Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation which has been running since 1985. The Foundation is dedicated to the research, conservation, and management of ecologically important habitats, as well as environmental education and community development.
Consistent with past work, one of the objectives of this Jatun Sacha station is to develop the technology to reconstruct the native habitat in the highlands on San Cristobal, and to serve as a centre for similar projects in the highlands on other populated islands in the Galapagos chain. In addition the foundation will be working collaboratively with local landowners to develop clean agricultural alternatives for the production of vegetables and fruits to sell to local universities, restaurants, and hotels.
Why does the project need volunteers?
The highland forests of the populated Islands in the Galapagos chain have been greatly altered due to the introduction of exotic and invasive species of animals and plants. Highland conservation, development and poverty issues have been almost completely neglected by conservation, development and government agencies. As a result of the lack of fruit and vegetable production on the Galapagos Islands, boats from the Ecuadorian mainland unload fruits and vegetables to hotels, restaurants, and markets on a daily basis. Quarantine regulations are consistently ignored and at least two exotic and/or invasive plant or faunal species enter the islands each day. Importantly, the local population, lacking most government services and suffering high unemployment levels, is almost completely excluded from working in and benefiting from the tourism industry: tour operators do nearly all their business from their boats, ignoring business possibilities with local Galapagueo's.
What kind of skills do you need to go on this type of project?
General fitness and lots of enthusiasm is definitely needed for this conservation project. Volunteers also need to be ready to take on any tasks that may be required of them, and to get dirty in the process!
Your role as a volunteer
You will work on both the habitat restoration and agricultural components while at the reserve. In addition, foundation staff will lead you on various hikes to a nearby lagoon, native forests, beaches, and local villages to explain the ecological and human dynamics of Galapagos. Opportunities to work on group research and monitoring projects will be developed.
Where is the project based?
The flight from Quito to San Cristobal is about an hour, this flight will be booked for you and the cost added to your statement at the time of booking. The project is then a 30 minute taxi ride from the airport.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Accommodation:Shared basic hut, depending on the number of volunteers some rooms could be single sex, some rooms could be mixed sex.
- Food:All meals
- Airport Pickup:Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
- Training:In-country orientation
- Support:Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support
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