Belize Mangrove Conservation Project

Help to conserve the beautiful marine and forest reserves of Belize, and help to enhance the research and protection of these pristine ecosystems.
 
Nestled in Central America on the Caribbean coast between Mexico and Guatemala, Belize lies at the centre of the Mesoamerican "biodiversity hotspot". Pristine subtropical forests provide a refuge for wildlife and conceal ancient Mayan ruins. The warm clear waters of the Caribbean lap sandy Cayes offering access to the world’s second longest barrier reef and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its spectacular snorkelling and diving.
 
‘No shoes, no shirt, no worries’ is the infamous motto for the Cayes off the east coast of Belize. You will have the opportunity to discover infamous barrier reefs, dive the Blue Hole, marvel at an extraordinary array of colourful reef fish and rays, sea urchins, anemones, octopus and even sea turtles feed at luxuriant sea grass beds. You can explore this exquisite, untarnished underwater world as you snorkel off the Cayes of Belize.
You will have the chance to explore, chart and monitor extensive areas of pristine coral and vast seagrass beds, record populations of reef fish and conch and assist in annual reef health check. On shore, you will explore the unique ecosystem which bridges the land and the ocean: the lush fringing mangrove forests, seasonal lagoons and littoral forests of red, white and black mangroves.
Mangroves represent a critical coastal ecosystem that have an incredible impact on our lives. They help in preserving biodiversity as nursery grounds for many marine and coastal species and fisheries. They contribute in protecting coastal communities against extreme weather events such as hurricanes and stabilise coastlines, reducing soil erosion.
Your days will be eventful; the work will be challenging, rewarding and fun. Your discoveries will be of huge benefit to the conservation of these fabulous mangroves and you will gain immense satisfaction from knowing that you have helped protect these precious natural resources for future generations.
The results from your investigations will supply vital baseline information on the Belizean coastline to enable the sustainable management of natural resources in the region and the protection of the marine wildlife in partnership with the Belize Fisheries Department.
 
Product Code: FTR005