Introducing ES3cAPe's New Module: Marine Ecology and Coastal Management Programme, Fiji Islands. Week 1: Jan 18th - 25th
The Marine Ecology and Coastal Management Programme integrates academic principles in marine ecology with applied management tools to investigate human impacts on coastal ecosystems. Robinson Crusoe Island, in Fiji, provides an ideal field site, with a variety of coastal habitats, including coral reefs, sandy shores, and mangrove stands. In this aquatic playground, we will evaluate how humans utilize coastal resources, while maintaining cultural traditions and promoting eco-tourism ventures. This field-based program will expose students to ecological research (i.e., sampling design and techniques, data collection and interpretation) leading to future management strategies for the island. Students will participate in cultural activities, and expected to integrate indigenous perspectives with scientific research.
This one-week field program will include:
- Fijian culture and traditional management of coastal resources.
- Marine ecological approaches and sampling techniques.
- Quantification of abundance and distribution of marine organisms within sand flats, mangrove habitats, and coral reefs.
- Evaluation of current management practices and future approaches
Itinerary:
- Arrival at Nadi airport (18 January)
- Transport to Robinson Crusoe Island
- Fiji Orientation
- Cultural experience (throughout the week)
- Field sampling within different habitats (throughout the week)
- Data analysis and interpretation (throughout the week)
- Transport back to Nadi airport (25 January)
Program Includes:
- Transport (bus and boat) to Robinson Crusoe Island
- Lodging at Robinson Crusoe Island (http://www.robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com/default.html)
- Food (3 meals per day)
- Day boat trips to snorkelling sites
- Cultural performances and activities
Module Leader:
Dr. Andrea Alfaro
Contact Information:
Darren@frontiersabroad.com
949-680-7850