Reef Monitoring Program

  Mexico

• Yucatan Peninsula: 
Tulum

Durations of Program: 9-12 weeks and 3-6 months

Description: The main goal of the CEA's Reef Monitoring and Research subprogram is to collect comprehensive data on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef in the region of Akumal, using the MBRS methodology, REEF and Reef Check, to have a baseline characterization of the reef ecosystem in this zone.

This program runs all year long and is divided in 4 phases a year, whit a duration of 3 months each. We monitor both fish and corals, and each of the volunteers is expected to specialize in either one of these.

Before you can start the actual monitoring work, you must be able to identify 100% of the coral or fish species encountered here to make sure the data collected is accurate.

The first 3 weeks in this project will mostly be spent learning fishes or corals, becoming familiar with the monitoring methodology, and going snorkeling in the bay for some underwater identification practice.

You will also be given general lectures (wildlife, reefs, oceanography, etc.) to give you a better perspective on your work.

You should be ready to start monitoring on week 4; and we will go diving at least twice a week, hopefully trice.

The subprogram receives new volunteers 4 times a year, and it's divided in phases

Highlights: The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef Systems (MBRS) is formed by a complex of Barrier reefs that extend from the southern part of the Yucatan Peninsular to the Islas de la Bahia in Honduras. It is considered the second biggest barrier reef in the world. The MBRS is unique in the Western Hemisphere due to its size, the types of reef, and the huge diversity of corals and related species. The MBRS contributes to the stability and protection of the coastline, it maintains the water quality along the coastline and also functions as a feeding nursery and reproduction site for marine mammals, reptiles, fish and invertebrates, many of which are important sources of food. The MBRS also holds a huge socioeconomic importance, providing jobs and a source of income to approximately one million people living in adjacent coastal areas.

The National Commition for the Knowledge and Use of Biodiversity (CONABIO), considers Akumal as an area for investigation, conservation and to create awareness among people in order to protect our natural resources and the natural heritage.

Centro Ecologico Akumal (CEA) has participated in most of the conservation initiatives as a promoter of knowledge, environmental education and as a link between users and stakeholders to protect the area.

Qualifications:
* Over 18
* Diving certificate

Cost in US$: 500 per month

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Easy going, nice, wiling to learn, enthusiastic, proactive

This Program is open to American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Mexico Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves:

• Other
• Written Application

Centro Ecologico Akumal's Mission Statement: Generate and promote strategies for ecosystem management in Akumal, through research, education and policy, for environmental sustainability in the Mexican Caribbean.

Year Founded: 1993