Project name:

Blue Ventures (2)

Project purpose:

Since 2003 Blue Ventures has been working with volunteers to develop locally led marine conservation initiatives in places where the ocean is vital to local cultures and economies. Alongside their practical conservation work, their aim is to increase awareness and demonstrate that effective marine conservation can be in everyone’s interest. Their award-winning volunteer expeditions are key in collecting reef monitoring data, supporting alternative livelihoods, and integrating ourselves into the coastal communities where they work. Their ultimate goal is for volunteers to have a direct and meaningful contribution to locally led marine conservation models.

Project activities:

• community awareness

• data collection/analysis
• habitat restoration/management

Weekly cost (approx USD):

$

600

Marine

Timor-Leste

South-East Asia

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1

Direct benefits you gain:

• cultural integration
• data/statistical skills

• field research skills

• remote scenic location

Noteworthy conservation points:

• contributes to environmental policy

• development goals (supporting local community)

• publishes peer-reviewed science

• publishes work

Accommodation:

shared accommodation (private available for extra fee)

When does the project run?

All year

Facilities:

accommodation included, food included, cooking facilities, electricity, local shops, nearby medical facilities, refillable drinking water, shower (bucket), cold shower, western style toilet.

All transport and activities once the expedition has started. Top quality resources, facilities and expertise. Passionate and experienced national and international field staff and a volunteer to staff ratio that never exceeds 3-1. Three meals a day cooked by local chefs with local ingredients & rustic eco-cabin accommodation overlooking the beach.

How long can I stay?

2 weeks minimum, 6 weeks recommended, 12 weeks possible (Price dependent on length of stay)

Requirements:

• Passion for marine conservation

Details of the day-to-day life on the project:

The waters of Timor-Leste are a biodiversity hotspot and a global marine conservation priority, yet data on the status of the marine ecosystem is severely lacking, with limited monitoring and research. Blue Ventures’ volunteers will assist our team of scientists with the collection of marine inventory data completing research dives in previously un-surveyed waters. The data collected will inform Blue Ventures’ theory and practice and contribute directly to our efforts to develop new approaches to engaging Timor-Leste’s coastal communities in marine conservation.

As well as surveying the status of the coral reefs, particular attention will be paid to threatened seagrass beds, this habitat, home to numerous vulnerable species, serves as a vital feeding ground and nursery area for reef fish.

Regardless of your diving experience and whether you are a budding scientist or a newcomer to the field of marine conservation, all are welcome and able to support and contribute to Blue Ventures’ work in Timor-Leste.

All of the science and dive training throughout the expedition is designed and delivered by our experienced team. Informal lectures, workshops, group discussions and practical exercises will guide you through the programme and provide you with the skills and knowledge required to carry out underwater research dives and contribute to our work

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