Earthwatch is a Not for Profit Organisation that connects the public to science through conservation, research and education. Paying volunteers work alongside leading scientists in the field, donating their time and money to conserve some of our most precious environments. For 2012 Earthwatch is calling all experienced divers to help with conducting 2 underwater surveys to protect 1. our majestic Manta rays and 2. our beautiful coral reefs.

Dive for a cause and join a research team today:

1. Project Manta

Collect valuable data on the world's largest ray, to protect the species against rising threats to its long-term health. Contributing to a study of manta feeding habits, assisting with plankton sampling and analysis from a series of plankton tows at dive sites and offshore, you may also take part in filming manta rays for an ongoing behavioral study - observing mantas interacting with cleaner fish at cleaning stations and mapping reef. The information you gather will contribute to a database that is now emerging as the best available data source for this incredibly vulnerable species!

2012 Dates:
11 Feb - 18 Feb 2012, 23 Jun - 30 Jun 2012, & 12 Sep - 19 Sep 2012
Cost:
$2,500 (includes food, accommodation, transfer to and from the island, diving activities and equipment as well as contributing to continuing this vital research)
Duration:
8 days
Enquiries:
Kirsty Richardson at Earthwatch on 03 9682 6828 or krichardson@earthwatch.org.au
For more information on this project visit: the Earthwatch website.

2. Recovery of the Reef

Dive the spectacular fringing coral reefs surrounding Orpheus Island, Great Barrier Reef and help us to better understand the emerging threats facing this landmark site. To do this you will conduct underwater surveys tagging and photographing diseased areas, which will then be monitored over time to assess the condition of the coral as well as working in an the aquarium to set up and conduct experiments that measure light, temperature, pH and nutrients of the water. By joining this expedition you will be at the forefront of international research into coral reef disease and helping to prevent a wider outbreak.

2012 Dates:
12 - 19 Mar & 30 Aug - 7 Sept
Cost:
$2,700 (includes food, accommodation, transfer to and from the island, diving activities and equipment as well as contributing to continuing this vital research)
Duration:
8 days
Enquiries:
Kirsty Richardson at Earthwatch on 03 9682 6828 or krichardson@earthwatch.org.au
For more information on this project visit  the Earthwatch website.