Ocean Spirits Leatherback Sea Turtle Research & Education Programme, Grenada

Objective & Background

The continuation of the research programme is essential if we are to understand the dynamics of Grenada’s leatherback turtle population and how we can best work with local communities to conserve this regionally significant nesting population.  Through long-term study we will be able to establish the stability of this population and what measures need to be taken locally to ensure the population has a better chance of survival.

 

The presence of Ocean Spirits volunteers in the community serves to heighten the awareness of issues relating to sea turtles and the wider environment.  Research Assistants must be aware of their role as ‘ambassadors’ of Ocean Spirits during their stay, your behaviour can make a huge impact on the way the programme is viewed; positively or negatively and thus we insist Research Assistants behave responsibly and with respect at all times.  Each individual has the power to positively influence attitudes towards sea turtles, leaving a legacy helping their survival into the future.

2008 marks the 9th year of the leatherback monitoring programme.  During the nesting season (March – July) Research Assistants & Project Supervisors will patrol the key nesting beach at night for nesting females, assist in the application of tags and collect biometric data - this is very much a hands on programme.  You can expect to complete approximately three to four night surveys per week (8pm to 6am) during their three week stay.

 

During hatching season, beginning in May, night patrols will also include the possibility of viewing emerging nests.  As with all turtle related duties, training will be given as to the correct protocols to adhere to when working with hatchlings.  This aspect of night work will also coincide with the daytime work of excavating extinct nests to establish hatching success and/or reasons for levels of nest mortality. You will be carrying out nest excavations from May.

 

Morning surveys are carried out each morning at 6am on selected nesting beaches on the east coast of the island.  You will walk stretches of beach each morning looking for leatherback (and occasionally other species such as hawksbill) tracks, nests and any hatchling activity (approximately 2 miles). The nesting activity will be recorded along with any disruptive activity such as egg poaching or sand mining and the tracks covered over. Morning survey can take between 45 minutes to over and hour to complete depending on activity.

 

Despite adverse weather conditions and long working hours the collection of general population and individual specific information is the programmes highest priority. Without this insistence of a scientifically rigorous approach our data would not be considered robust enough on which to base serious resource management recommendations that we may make.  For that reason, you must be able to adhere to strict scientific guidelines to participate in this programme.

 

You will be involved in any school turtle watching field trips or community groups who arrange to join us on our nightly patrols. It is an incredibly rewarding experience to introduce a leatherback to someone for the first time.

 

The Ocean Spirits Summer Camps (July/August) are focused on environmental issues and personal development with a heavy emphasis on hands-on activities (e.g. trial SCUBA, organic chocolate factory (solar powered), organic banana plantation, internet lessons etc). We aim to nurture their genuine interest and encourage these future stewards of Grenada to act responsibly with regards to their environment. You will be required to contribute towards summer camp programme events, preparation and assist in the day-to-day running of the camps. The cultural differences between the Caribbean and Western cultures make this experience and education for you too. You do not have to be a teacher, or have had any training or extensive knowledge of the environment (we have plenty of material to help with this); you need to be confident and prepared to help the students on a one to one basis and at group level. It is hard work – but great fun!

 

It may seem like an excuse for a party, but our community relationships have been successfully built upon ‘doing the Grenadian ting’!  Each year (August), Grenada like all the other Caribbean islands, have a Carnival.  In 2004, Ocean Spirits took its turn by playing ‘Turtle Mas’ in the local villages.  Alongside designing amazing turtle costumes and banners, the team and local fishermen danced their way through the night, bringing the problems of egg poaching to the communities in a culturally specific way.  It was a major success and while it will take some planning and organisation, 2008 will again give us a chance to enjoy the celebrations with the communities we work with and contribute in a very positive way to the future conservation of sea turtles and their eggs in the area. Be prepared for paper mache, paint and lots of glitter! More information about Ocean Spirits and its programmes can be found at www.oceanspirits.org

Time Off & Recommended Activities

Grenada has a diverse range of activities and places to visit. You will receive one day off each week, but you will find that some rotated tasks take only a few hours leaving you with the rest of the day free.

UK, US, Canada, Commonwealth countries and other EU passport holders do not require a visa to travel to Grenada as a tourist. Your passport must be valid with more than 6 months remaining to travel to Grenada. A return ticket is required for entry by all passport holders.

 

If you're interested to read more about ex-volunteers feedback on the Ocean Spirits Volunteer Programme, click here.  We will be happy to provide you with further details if you want to get in touch with some of them.

 

 

The physical conditions of the work are challenging - tough but reasonable. The main challenge will be remaining awake for periods throughout the night and walking long distances on sand. The key to this work is making enough time to relax and catch up on your sleep.

 

However much you believe you will not burn; you must wear a high factor sun lotion. A sun hat is essential for day work and you are advised to drink plenty of water (tap water is safe to drink). Grenada enjoys good weather throughout the year. Average temperatures are 25-30 oC. The dry season is January – May, the rainy season June – December. Banks, post offices and internet cafes can be found in Sauteurs and Grenville (10 and 20 minutes bus journey away respectively).

How to get involved?

If you are interested in joining this project as a Research Assistant volunteer, you will need to fill out the online application form (you can also print it out and send it to us by post) – to secure a placement on the project, please complete and submit the form including two references and your deposit of £150.  If for some reason, your application is declined, we would reimburse this deposit fully.  However for those who are accepted, the full amount needs to be paid one month before departure.  Once the full sum is paid, you will receive a pre-departure package with all detailed information on your project, suggested items to bring etc...