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 whilst 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.
Soak up the chilled out, Caribbean atmosphere of Belize whilst taking
part in a long term and sustainable marine research and conservation
programme. The Frontier Belize programme is run in association with the
Belize Fisheries Department, and this research and conservation project
aims to provide the local communities, stakeholders and government
bodies with the baseline biodiversity data they need to design and
implement management plans for the future protection of this pristine
marine ecosystem.
To gather the data needed you will undertake rapid sampling diving and
snorkel surveys, underwater line and belt transects (weather permitting
for all diving), mangrove surveys and opportunistic mammal sightings
with one day off each week. Your activities will involve locating and
mapping the extensive, pristine coral reefs and studying the various
communities existing on them. The number of dives completed each week on
the project depend on the quarterly science plan and itinerary as set
by the Frontier field staff. If you require dive training, this is
available in-country upon your arrival at the Frontier camp.
Whilst diving and snorkelling in this Caribbean odyssey, you'll see an
extraordinary array of animals from colourful reef fish species to
nudibranchs, sea cucumbers to cushion stars and spiny urchins to
octopuses. By the end of your project you will be capable of identifying
a wide range of colourful and patterned reef organisms, as well as
being an experienced and competent diver. Although the work is intense
and challenging you'll get immense satisfaction from having made a
valuable contribution to the conservation of this marine environment.