Where
This project is based on Isabela Island, the largest of the islands of the Galapagos. Here volunteers have the opportunity to support the conservation efforts and land turtle support projects on Isabela Island. Current research is focused on ensuring that ecosystem restoration proceeds towards a more pristine condition – this requires ensuring that any introduced plant species do not out-compete the native vegetation.
Skills
PROACTIVE Jump in and maintain a positive attitude. PATIENT Life in your host country moves slower than one might be used to. Relax and enjoy the slow pace. Remember, not everything is as organized and predictable as life in the US or UK. FLEXIBLE Plans change, roads get flooded, and electricity goes out. Realize that not everything goes as planned, but good intention is always there. CONSIDERATE Respect those around you and be a reliable worker at the program site. Tell your host family if you will be late. Advise the Project Coordinator if you are sick and can not work. RESPECTFUL Remember that the local people you are working with, side by side, do so with little or no salary. They do this work because they believe in it. There are times when you may not agree with or understand the organizations decisions or direction. Although your suggestions are always welcome, your faith, respect and consideration for their long term work and commitment is appreciated. FRIENDLY In order to truly help someone you must get to know them. Do not be afraid to make friends with the local people. Smile, wave and see how fast you are welcomed into the community. TOLERANT The food, the culture, the smells and the sounds will be unfamiliar to you at first. We recommend that you dive in and experience life head-on. You will be surprised at how quickly you will adapt.
What We Will Do
Volunteer work is about 3-5 hours per day, 5 days a week. Volunteers will help in light construction tasks, reforestation efforts and help with eradication of non native plants. Much of the work is outside working in the Galapaguera greenhouse. This program lets you do a little bit of everything pertaining to providing support of sustainable conservation efforts on the Island. This is a great opportunity to discover the wonders and wild life of the Galapagos by offering hands on contributions to their sustainability. Expect to get your hands dirty and work different schedules based on the project needs. This project begins and ends in Quito.
