Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014 Dear Earthwatcher, Welcome! You’ll soon join a scientific team working on the study and conserva...
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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Dear Earthwatcher, Welcome! You’ll soon join a scientific team working on the study and conservation of the amazing community of whales and dolphins in Golfo Dulce. You will get to know these coastal dolphins and wintering humpback whales, actively contribute to field data collection, and help us process digital photos and scientific information. Along with the research staff, you’ll live in our field station in the quiet village of Rincon de Osa on the gulf’s northwestern shore. We hope that sharing the researcher’s life with us will provide you with the same inspiration that drives our daily work as professional scientists. The natural beauty of the Golfo Dulce area is important to the local economy, in which tourism plays a crucial role. Many development projects are trying to capitalize on those incredible natural attributes, a trend that is already bringing negative consequences. By joining our team, you’ll help us ensure that we have the information to suggest the right strategies for maintaining and conserving Golfo Dulce’s most valuable aspects: the marine ecosystem stability, the biodiversity, and the cultural socioeconomic relevance for coastal communities. That’s not even mentioning the value that this habitat offers a planet in need of carbon balance in the atmosphere to ameliorate climate change. We do not oppose the right of coastal communities to achieve a better standard of living, but we believe that this quest should not prevent all of us from preserving our natural heritage for future generations. Pack lightly, but do not forget to bring a positive attitude and a love for nature. We have an amazing experience ahead of us. Welcome to Golfo Dulce! Lenin Oviedo and the team at CEIC

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Table of Contents General Information�������������������������������������������� 2 The Research ���������������������������������������������������� 6 Your Destination ������������������������������������������������ 8 Daily Life in the Field���������������������������������������� 10 Accommodations and Food������������������������������ 12 Travel Planning ������������������������������������������������ 14 Travel Tips�������������������������������������������������������� 15 Project Conditions���������������������������������������������17 Safety �������������������������������������������������������������� 19 Project Staff������������������������������������������������������ 21 Recommended Reading���������������������������������� 22 Participant Rights and Responsibilities ���������� 23 Communications���������������������������������������������� 27 Message from Earthwatch�������������������������������� 28

Images © Christine Figgener, David Herra Miranda, Katie Hunt, Lenin Oviedo

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

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General Information Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica

Earthwatch scientist: Lenin Enrique Oviedo Correa

Expedition dates:

Research site: Golfo Dulce, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica



Team 1: Jan. 31 – Feb. 8, 2014



Team 2: Feb. 21 – Mar. 1, 2014



Team 3: June 27 – July 5, 2014



Team 4: July 11 – July 19, 2014



Team 5* TEEN: July 25 – Aug 2, 2014



Team 6: Aug. 8 – Aug. 16, 2014



Team 7: Oct. 3 – Oct. 11, 2014



Team 8: Dec. 5 – Dec. 13, 2014

Full travel information is not available in this online version of the briefing. Please contact Earthwatch if you need assistance.

* Teen Teams are open to 15- to 18-year-olds (18-year-olds may participate if they finished their last year of high school in the previous school year). Teen Team participants will receive a separate expedition briefing. 16- and 17-year-olds may also participate on standard teams if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

trip planner To do immediately Make sure you understand and agree to Earthwatch policies and participant responsibilities (see pg. 24).

90 days prior to expedition Complete and return your volunteer forms. Below are the specific forms required for this expedition:  arthwatch Participation Form for Adults, including E Water-Based Projects section Travel Form To complete forms, login at www.earthwatch.org. Note: If you have signed up for an expedition within 90 days of the start date, you must return your fully completed volunteer forms as soon as possible. Pay any outstanding balance for your expedition. Book travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning section, pg. 14, for details). If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, note that some policies require purchase when your expedition is booked (see the Insurance section, pg. 21, for more information).

If traveling internationally, make sure your passport is current and obtain a visa for your destination country, if necessary (see the Passports and Visas section, pg. 17, for more details). Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for your project site (see the Health Information section, pg. 20). Bring your level of fitness up to the standards required (see the Project Conditions section, pg. 18).

60 days prior to expedition Review the packing list (pg. 4) to make sure you have all the clothing, personal supplies, and equipment needed.

30 days prior to expedition Leave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with a friend or relative (see the inside back cover). Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline tickets with a friend or relative. Confirm your travel arrangements.

Read this expedition briefing thoroughly. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your Earthwatch scientist’s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. However, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. Research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. To enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, Earthwatch will make every attempt to keep you well informed before you go into the field.

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expedition packing checklist Required Items

sunburn and bug bites on the boat); keep in mind they will get wet

General

Wide-brimmed sun hat

Note: Bring clothes you don’t mind getting very dirty and potentially ruining.

Poncho or light rain jacket Sneakers

This expedition briefing Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents Passport and/or visa (if necessary) Certification of vaccination (if necessary) Documentation for travel by minors (if necessary) (see Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age, pg. 17)

Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork Earthwatch T-shirt Lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts to protect you from sunburn and mosquito bites Long shorts Quick-drying, long hiking or cargo pants (to avoid

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At least three pairs of knee-high synthetic socks or soccer socks to use with the rubber boots available at the accommodations (cotton socks dry too slowly)

Clothing/Footwear for Leisure

At least one set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition Sandals or flip flops Closed-toe shoes for walking around camp at night Shorts and shirts for wearing around camp

Field Supplies Small daypack Two one-liter water bottles VERY IMPORTANT: lots of high-SPF sunscreen

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Insect repellent spray

Bedding and Bathing Note: The lodge will provide sheets, pillows, and blankets. Towel

Personal Supplies Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged) Personal first aid kit (e.g., antibacterial wipes or lotion, anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, etc.) and personal medications Headlamp with extra batteries and extra bulb

Miscellaneous

Optional Items

Binoculars, preferably 8x to 10x magnification with wide lens aperture Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery Hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition Travel guide Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time Bandana for extra sun protection Drybag or plastic sealable bags (good for protecting equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water)

Note: Required and optional items lists are accurate to the best of Earthwatch’s knowledge at the time of publication.

Spending money

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The Research Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica this relatively small area, which means that they are especially vulnerable to habitat disruption from mismanaged coastal development and tourism. Already, we have observed negative effects: one dolphin community shows signs of a fungal skin condition known as lobomycosislike disease (LLD), which seems linked to the fact that they live in an area with heavy resort development and boat traffic, and agricultural pollution from river drainage. Unlike the dolphins, the humpback whales of Golfo Dulce migrate there each year from northern and southern Pacific waters. Whales from the southern Pacific generally arrive in early August and depart in mid-October. Whales from the northern Pacific generally arrive in mid-November and depart in the end of February or beginning of March. Our observations and sound recordings of the whales suggest that the gulf serves as a key habitat for reproduction, calving, and nursing. Therefore, humpbacks are often at their most vulnerable in this environment. Our research will help us assess the robustness of the population and design management plans to support their continued health.

The Story Golfo Dulce, a narrow inlet on the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, provides a rich habitat for cetaceans (whales and dolphins). It remains fairly pristine, since it is somewhat remote and the many tourists who visit Costa Rica each year haven’t quite discovered it yet— which makes now a crucial time to investigate what the ecosystem needs to remain healthy. By understanding the behavior and tracking the abundance of the whales and dolphins in Golfo Dulce, we can ensure we have the information we need to best protect them when tourism starts in earnest in this beautiful, wild place. Since 2005, we have gathered information on three species of cetacean in the gulf: the pantropical spotted dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin, and the humpback whale. Through our focus on these cetacean species, we want to understand how to preserve this unique marine ecosystem in general. The dolphin populations make their homes in

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Research Aims Not only is Golfo Dulce an especially good place for cetaceans, it’s also especially good for researchers. Unlike in the open ocean, the confined nature of the gulf makes it possible for us to observe whales and dolphins at the surface for extended periods of time. Through our research, we seek to assess these species’ population sizes and structures, and to deepen the knowledge of their distribution and habitat preferences. This information will help us understand the health of the cetacean populations at this moment, and, in turn, to develop conservation plans to protect the marine biodiversity in the gulf in the future. The preservation of the beauty and well-being of Golfo Dulce’s marine ecosystem benefits everyone—it can help local agencies manage tourism in the area in a sustainable way, which will generate income for the local community and give tourists the opportunity to learn about one of Costa Rica’s great treasures without destroying it.

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

How You Will Help Our research team of three resident marine biologists and two Costa Rican students will lead you in all research tasks, including observing cetaceans, making photo identifications, and recording and collecting data. When you first arrive at camp, you’ll receive an orientation and intensive training on research methods, and during the days that follow, you’ll work in small teams or pairs on the following tasks: Observing cetacean behavior. For an average of five hours at a time, we will travel onboard a 27-foot (eight-meter) motorboat to make observations of whales and dolphins. You’ll record the position of cetaceans and any boats we spot (to help us asses how vessel traffic affects cetacean behavior) with a handheld GPS unit. You’ll also record the size, composition, and behavior of the dolphin and whale groups we see. At least four volunteers at a time will watch the dolphins and whales while we follow them. And at the beginning and end of each survey period, as well as every half-hour throughout it, you’ll record environmental data like water surface temperature and sea condition. Documenting cetacean sightings. While some volunteers make the observations described above, two others will document sightings by taking photographs and recording

video of the dolphins or whales. We depend on the photographs and videos taken by our volunteers, so some of your photos may go directly into our project’s photo ID catalog. Sorting photos and identifying individual cetaceans. You’ll then help us sort photos by species and attempt to match individuals we’ve sighted with photos of individuals in our photo ID catalog. We use photo ID management software for the matching process, which displays the encounter history of each individual we’ve already identified, along with a high-quality photo of the dorsal fin, which clearly shows natural marks such as notches and nicks. These marks help distinguish between individuals. Assessing habitats and land use (depends on the season and the weather): At some point during your expedition, you may get out of the boat and explore the terrain. We will verify the accuracy of satellite imagery of important habitats in our study areas, especially mangrove forests and plantations, by hiking along the coast or up rivers that drain into the gulf (about five to six miles/eight to 10 kilometers round trip). Mangrove forests are vital for coastal ecosystem stability because they provide a buffer from erosion and a nursery for fish. Healthy mangrove forests also mean a good supply of food for marine predators like coastal dolphins, which spend lots of time in the river mouth lined with mangrove forests to search for food. Unfortunately, natural vegetation, including those on these river banks, have been cleared to give space for African palm oil and rice plantations, which in turn become sources of the pollutants that enter and degrade the waters of Golfo Dulce. Working with the local community: You may help present to and develop and run educational activities for local schools and other community stakeholders, giving you the opportunity to get to know some of the people who live around Golfo Dulce.

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Your Destination About the Osa Peninsula

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The secluded Osa Peninsula, which juts out from Costa Rica’s southwest corner to form Golfo Dulce, has some of the greatest species diversity on Earth. Corcovado National Park covers much of the peninsula, and contains the single largest expanse of a lowland tropical rainforest in Central America. With an average humidity level of 85 percent and over 200 millimeters of rain each year, Corcovado is also the wettest place in all of Mesoamerica.

Birdwatchers will encounter a wide array of species as well. Corcovado houses the largest wild scarlet macaw population, a species classified as endangered by loss of habitat, and the park is also part of the endangered yellow-billed cotinga’s very small range. And in Golfo Dulce itself, marine wildlife thrives—whales and dolphins, of course, but also tuna, marlins, manta rays, and whale sharks.

A truly remarkable array of plants and animals, many of them rare or endangered, make their homes in the park. It is one of the jaguar’s last remaining natural habitats, and four other species of wild cat also live there: puma, ocelot, jaguarundi, and margay. While hiking one of the many trails that wind through the park, you might also spot a sloth, peccary, tapir, anteater, or one of Costa Rica’s four native monkey species: the white-headed capuchin, the mantled howler, the Central American squirrel monkey, and the endangered Geoffroy’s spider monkey.

Puerto Jiménez, with a population of about 1,800, is the peninsula’s largest town—which gives a sense of how secluded the place truly is. Before the formation of Corcovado National Park, the town served as a hub for gold mining and logging operations. Puerto Jiménez is now the main gateway to the area’s natural attractions, and the community depends on tourism for income. Many residents work as tour operators or at other posts in the tourism industry, and therefore they rely on the stability and conservation of the coastal marine habitat and the tropical forest.

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Map showing the location of the gulf and the topography of the sea floor.

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Daily Life in the Field Plans and Policies When surveying for cetaceans, we will work on the boat from early morning to mid-afternoon for about five hours at a time. You may help carry light equipment to the boat and load it on. Photo-identification sessions will take no more than two hours at a time, during which you’ll sit on one side of the boat holding on the provided handles. Everyone on the boat will have a specific task involving either handling video and photo equipment or recording instrument readings, such as GPS coordinates. Always ask if you need to switch tasks or rest. As mentioned above, we may also visit adjacent coastal ecosystems and take short hikes.

Earthwatch Recreational Time Policy Project staff will generally accompany participants from the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. For recreational days, when no research activities are scheduled, Earthwatch scientists will offer either a team activity or a range of recreational activities that comply with Earthwatch standards. Participants may also remain at project accommodations. Those who pursue other options must sign a release form. If there is a period of time during a regular research day when no research activities are scheduled, adult participants may leave the project site on their own; they will have to sign out first. Unless contacted for help, project staff will not search for a participant unless he or she fails to appear the following morning or for the next scheduled research activity. Earthwatch will assess the general risks of adult participants leaving the project site, but cannot guarantee participant safety or an awareness of all issues. In some cases, due to local conditions, adult participants may have to stay at the project site during recreational time, which will be clearly communicated on site.

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

ITINERARY AND DAILY SCHEDULE Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Day 1: Arrival; tour of our home base, El Chontal; settling in; orientation and training Day 2: Training on dolphin and whale behavior sampling and dolphin photo-identification (including both fieldwork and labwork at camp) and/or possible dolphin survey Day 3: Dolphin survey and photo-ID lab work at camp Day 4: Dolphin survey and photo-ID lab work at camp Day 5: Dolphin survey and possible river survey Day 6: Dolphin survey and photo-ID lab work at camp; possible cultural activity Day 7: Time off to explore or photo-ID lab work at camp Day 8: Time off to explore or photo-ID lab work at camp Day 9: Departure You’re most likely to encounter the target whale and dolphin populations during the following times: Spotted dolphins: year-round Bottlenose dolphins: year-round Humpback whales (northeast Pacific population): late November through early March, peak presence in December and January Humpback whales (southeast Pacific population): mid-July through early October; peak presence in August and September

Typical daily schedule 7:00 – 7:30 a.m.

Breakfast; we will depart to Puerto Jiménez right after breakfast, so we need have all gear ready to go beforehand.

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Trip to Puerto Jiménez; we usually stop at a supermarket to use the restroom and get any lastminute personal supplies (snacks, additional sunscreen, etc.)

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Dolphin and whale surveying (lunch onboard vessel), usually starting around the nearby rivers. We usually establish a priority species of the day and focus on finding it first. Once photo-ID and behavior sampling with the priority species finishes, we look for a second priority species, and so on. Depending on our progress, we may take a 30-minute break at a nearby beach.

3:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Head back to camp

4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Free time

5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

Data logging and photo ID matching, or a cultural activity

6:30 p.m.

Dinner

Early Evening

Discussion on the day’s results and events and the impact on the research-conservation project

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Accommodations and Food About Your Home in the Field You’ll stay at El Chontal, an ecolodge and field station run by a local family.

Sleeping Past volunteers have raved about El Chontal and its beautifully hand-crafted cabins. The lodge’s four cabins accommodate a maximum of four each, with a shared bathroom. If possible, people of the same gender will share rooms. The lodge provides sheets, pillows, and blankets; please bring a bath towel. We can usually accommodate couples rooms or single rooms by request with no extra charge (depending on availability), but we require at least two week’s advanced notice (please contact Earthwatch to notify us).

Bathroom Facilities Each cabin’s shared bathroom has one shower with cold water only (which you will find very refreshing after a day in the tropical sun) and a flush toilet. There are also two shared bathrooms in the common area, each with a shower and flush toilet. We do not limit the length of showers, but we ask that you be conscientious and conserve water.

Electricity The field station has electricity at all times, but you must also bring a flashlight or headlamp for walking around the grounds after dark. Electricity is 120 volts, 60 hertz, Type A and Type B plugs (as in the U.S.). You may charge electronic equipment, but please avoid plugging in many appliances at once.

your stay, you should pick up an international prepaid card when you arrive in Costa Rica. Puerto Jiménez, about an hour’s drive from the field station, has a bank and several Internet cafés.

Facilities and Amenities Cabins have porches, and bird watching just outside is superb.

Plug Type A

Plug Type B

Internet and Other Communications This is a remote area, and the station has no Internet connection and very poor cellphone reception. The nearest village, Rincon de Osa, has a payphone at the grocery store, but it does not accept prepaid calling cards from foreign countries; if you’d like to make calls during

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The lodge offers laundry service, including drying, at a cost of 3,500 colónes (about 7-8 U.S. dollars) per kilo (about two pounds). We do not encourage using the laundry service for delicate fabrics and easy-to-damage clothing.

Distance to Field Site We’ll depart each day from Puerto Jiménez’s pier, about an hour’s drive via minivan from our camp. We will usually make a restroom and supply stop at a local supermarket, which is also near two ATMs.

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Services And Restaurants Rincon de Osa has a grocery store where you can buy snacks like ice cream.

Food You’ll enjoy typical Costa Rican fare on this expedition, including rice and black beans, meat, vegetables, fruit, coffee, and juice. The team will eat breakfast and dinner together at the outdoor dining area at the accommodations (pictured below), and will pack lunches to take into the field each day. All meal prep is done by Azucena, the cook and main camp manager. Types of food to expect (please be flexible in the field): Breakfast: Gallo pinto (rice and beans, the best in the country), plantains, fresh cheese, eggs Lunch: Sandwiches, fruit (e.g., watermelon, pineapple, bananas) Dinner: Costa Rican-style rice and chicken, salad, pasta with homemade sauce Snacks: Each breakfast and dinner will be accompanied by amazing fresh local fruit juice. The local grocery store is always well stocked with ice cream at our request; the local brand Dos Pinos is very good. Beverages: We keep a container of filtered water in the lodge’s dining area, exclusively for the use of participants. We refill the bottle regularly. We encourage constant hydration and water consumption. You’ll sweat a lot even when not exerting yourself, so it’s a good idea to replenish essential electrolytes by drinking a sports drink (e.g., Gatorade) at least once a day.

Special Dietary Requirements Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian or vegan diets, diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other serious food allergies) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms. This expedition can accommodate most special diets with advanced notice.

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Travel Planning Rendezvous and Departure Information Complete travel information is only available in the printed version of this briefing. Please contact an Earthwatch representative with any questions.

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Travel Tips

Suggestions for the Road Luggage Lost and delayed luggage: If your luggage goes astray, please have it sent to: El Chontal 300 m sur de la Escuela de Rincon de Osa Puntarenas, Costa Rica (Tel: +506-2735-1438) General considerations: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed. Many airlines have strict baggage policies. On Sansa, checked bags can be 30 pounds (14 kilograms) or less (you’ll have to pay extra for extra weight) and hand luggage can be 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms) or less. Please check with your airline(s) on baggage weight limits, liquid restrictions, fees for checked baggage, etc. Transferring luggage: If you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections within the country of your destination, you must collect any checked bags at the airport where you first arrive in the destination country. After proceeding through customs, you will have to recheck your luggage before flying on to your final destination.

Money Matters Local currency: Costa Rican colónes (CRC). U.S. dollars are also often accepted, both in San José and at the field site. Personal funds: Puerto Jiménez has two banks, both of which have ATMs available from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. each day. Since we’ll depart from Puerto Jiménez Pier on most days, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get cash from the ATMs. We suggest changing 200 USD for personal supplies. Major credit cards are accepted at most businesses in Puerto Rico. Departure tax: Be prepared to pay the departure tax of US$26 in cash (U.S. dollars or Costa Rican colónes) or by Visa credit card (processed as a cash advance) at the airport upon checking in for your flight home.

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Your Destination Language: Spanish. In San José and other cities, many people speak some English. The project will be conducted in English. Time zone: GMT/UTC -6. For time worldwide with GMT/ UTC, see www.worldtimeserver.com. Telephone dialing codes: When calling Costa Rica from another country, dial the home country’s international dialing code, then 506 and the number. You’ll need to add a 2 after the 506 for all Costa Rican landline numbers and an 8 after the 506 for all Costa Rican cellphone numbers. When calling within Costa Rica, omit the 506 and dial the eight-digit number (i.e., including 2 or 8 for landline and cell phone numbers respectively). When calling another country from Costa Rica, dial 00, followed by the other country’s code and the number. Note: Check with your cellphone provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes you may need; many providers have dialing procedures that may differ from these directions. For more information, see www.kropla.com/dialcode.htm.

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PASSPORTS AND VISAS Will You Need a Passport?

Suggested Agencies

In most cases, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country you are visiting.

In the U.S.: Travisa; 212-613-2223; www.travisa.com

Will You Need a Visa?

In Australia: Ask your travel agency if it can send your visa application on your behalf.

Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the EU, Australia and Japan DO NOT need tourist visas for entry. Citizens of other countries should check with their travel agent or a visa agency for specific visa and entry requirements.

Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) If you are traveling from outside the U.S. and have a stopover in the U.S., you must register through the ESTA program. ESTA is used to screen short-term visitors who are citizens of the 36 countries eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). For a list of those countries, see www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/without/without_1990. html#countries. Visitors must complete ESTA at least three days before traveling to the U.S. Once approved, the authorization is valid for up to two years if the individual’s passport does not expire in the meantime. Submit applications through the ESTA website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. As of publication, ESTA costs approximately US$14.00. Citizens of countries covered by the VWP traveling to the U.S. for tourism or business for 90 days or less do not need to obtain a visa provided they have a valid passport (for exceptions, see the Quick Reference Guide: http:// travel.state.gov/pdf/VWP-QuickReferenceGuide.pdf).

Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas ONLY Type of visa to get: TOURIST The purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Immigration officials do not always understand the concept of a “working vacation,” or even “volunteering.” Words such as “working,” “volunteering,” “research” or “scientific expedition” can raise questions about the country’s foreign labor laws or official scientific research permits and credentials to which you won’t be able to respond on your own. All required research permits for the project are in place and have been approved by the proper authorities. Where to get a visa: Contact the nearest Costa Rican embassy or consulate to find out how to apply. Please note that this process can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.

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In Europe: CIBT, Inc. (U.K.); [email protected]; www. uk.cibt.com

Required information: Send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay), a visa application and immigration form, two to four passport-size photos, and payment to the embassy or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay. Contact information: You may be required to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form: David Herra Miranda Tel: Available in the printed version of the briefing only. El Chontal 300 m. sur de la Escuela de Rincon de Osa Puntarenas, Costa Rica Cost of a visa: Generally between US$40 and $100, but varies from country to country and can cost up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee.

Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age In an effort to prevent international child abduction, many governments have procedures at entry and exit points to protect minors. Thus, if a minor will be traveling with only one guardian or alone, he or she may need a notarized letter from all legal guardians stating that the minor may travel unaccompanied or in the presence of a single guardian. If necessary, this letter must give an explanation for why only one parent or someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter should state that. Airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors, e.g. a birth certificate or a notarized letter like the one described above. Important: Requirements of specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You must keep informed of the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If the minor is refused entry into a country or onto a flight because of lack of documentation, there is nothing Earthwatch can do to help.

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Project Conditions The Field Environment General Conditions The information that follows is as accurate as possible, but please keep in mind that conditions may change. The general climate throughout the year is humid tropical, with a rainy season that extends from May to early November. The dry season runs from mid-November to April, but even during this time period, it’s still very humidity with regular afternoon showers. The camp is on flat terrain, but any hikes (optional) will likely be located in hilly areas. The site is about 10 meters above sea level.

Eligibility Requirements All participants must be able, independently or with the assistance of a companion, to: Follow verbal and/or visual instructions. Enjoy being outdoors most of the day in variable weather, in the potential presence of wild animals and insects. Tolerate 30°C (85°F) heat and high humidity levels. Sit on a boat (some may experience seasickness) for an average of five hours per day without access to a bathroom. Search for dolphin signs (jumps, unusual ripples in the water, movements) on the surface of the water, while moving aboard the survey boat.

conditions Dry Season (mid-Nov. to apr.) Humidity: 70–85% Temperature Range: 27-30°C (low 80s°F) Rainfall: 100–400 mm

Rainy Season (May to Early Nov.) Humidity: 85–90% Temperature Range: 26-30°C (low 80s°F) Rainfall: 100–700 mm

Water Conditions Typical water temperature: 27°C (80.6°F) to 31°C (87.8°F) Typical water visibility: 12 ft (4 m) to 3 ft (1 m) Typical maximum water depth in area: 16ft (2 m) to 705 ft (215 m) Types of water environment: bay, cove, and open ocean conditions Likely sea state: 0 (flat) to 4 (small waves) on the beaufort scale Timing of boat-based work: daylight

Carry personal daily supplies such as lunch, water, and some small field equipment. Get oneself up into and down out of a minibus and ride, seated with seatbelt fastened, for a total of about one-and-a-half hours a day.

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POTENTIAL HAZARDS Hazard Type

Associated Risks and Precautions

Transportation

We may encounter poor road conditions and landslides. Only qualified drivers will transport volunteers in project vehicles. We ensure project vehicles are well maintained. Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Volunteers are not permitted to drive.

Walking/Terrain

You’ll likely traverse uneven terrain and hike uphill in humid tropical conditions; there’s a risk of sprains, strains, or breaks due to falling or tripping. You should never walk ahead of the local guide and should follow the guide’s instructions. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes when walking and at night carry a personal headlamp or flashlight.

Animals/Plants

Poisonous snakes live in the area, but we have never had a snake bite incident. You’ll likely encounter many insects; wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants and apply insect repellent frequently to avoid bites. Those with insect allergies should bring the proper emergency treatment and inform staff of the problem and the location of the treatment.

Climate/Weather

Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses can occur, but you can protect yourself by drinking sufficient water, wearing high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing appropriate clothing. Dehydration from sweating can be a problem; please bring your own water bottles that you can easily carry and refill them with electrolyte-replacing packets. Because of the high humidity, people who use a hearing aid device may find it doesn’t work properly. You may wish to consider purchasing a hearing aid dehumidifier.

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Project Tasks/ Equipment

Tripping over ropes on the boat or injury from equipment is possible. You will receive a full safety briefing on arrival; please follow all staff instructions. A first aid kit will be available on the boat.

Personal Security

Avoid areas designated as off limits by project staff, and follow the project’s policies on alcohol and drug consumption while in Golfo Dulce.

Swimming

Swimming is possible during recreational time, as long as volunteers are competent swimmers. You may only swim in known, safe environments, and close to the boat while it is at anchor. Do not swim alone or after consuming alcohol.

Working on a Boat

There is a risk of sprains, strains, or breaks from stepping in and out of the boat, or during adverse sea conditions. We will use a ladder when entering and exiting the boat. Hazards may result from falling overboard. Some volunteers may get seasick; please bring seasickness medication as a precaution. Boarding and stepping out of an inflatable craft and/or sitting onboard when the sea is choppy may cause problems for those with mobility or spinal conditions. These volunteers should carefully consider participation on the project. In addition, volunteers with back, knee, and hip problems, or pregnant women, may face difficulties or discomfort not only when they step on board and leave the boat, but also during navigation under choppy sea conditions. Life jackets and appropriate footwear must be worn at all time while on deck and the vessel is underway.

Distance from Medical Care

It may take an hour or more to arrange transport and reach the hospital. If you have a chronic condition which could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma, etc.), or if you are pregnant, please discuss your participation on this expedition with your physician.

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Safety Health Information Routine Immunizations

A few notes on vaccinations and treatment:

All volunteers should have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT (diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), and varicella (if you have not already had chicken pox). Please be sure your tetanus shot is current.

• Malaria is not present at the project area.

Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only. Earthwatch can only provide details regarding suggested vaccinations, and we are not a medical organization.

Project Vaccinations

Emergencies in the Field Physician, nurse, or EMT on staff: Project staff members are not medical professionals; Dr. Maria Eugenia Barrantes (Tel: +506-8-660-0618) is our local doctor. Staff certified in safety training: CPR: Lenin Oviedo, David Herra Miranda First Aid: Lenin Oviedo, David Herra Miranda Wilderness First Responder: Lenin Oviedo, David Herra Miranda Water Safety: David Herra Miranda

REQUIRED: If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination.

Nearest hospital and clinic:

RECOMMENDED FOR HEALTH REASONS: Typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B

Tel: +506-2-735-5063

Advice Regarding Diseases

Name: Hospital Puerto Jiménez Address: In front of bus station at Puerto Jiménez Fax: +506-2-735-5063 Travel time from project site: 45 minutes by boat, one hour driving.

Traveler’s diarrhea affects many international travelers.

Name: Hospital Golfito

Diseases found in Costa Rica may include malaria, dengue fever, tuberculosis, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis, strongyloidiasis, hepatitis, leptospirosis, chikunguya, and typhoid. Please see the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) or the World Health Organization (www.who.int/) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them.

Address: Barrio Alameda, 400 al norte de la Iglesia católica, Golfito, Puntarenas Tel: +506-2-775-7900 Fax: +506-2-775-7900 Travel time from project site: one hour by boat, one and a half hours driving.

You can decrease your risk of most diseases above by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region.

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INSURANCE MedEvac assistance, advice, and insurance are included in the contribution you pay to Earthwatch. The insurance covers your travel medical risks, including medical expenses and emergency medical evacuation, while you are traveling. It also provides trip cancellation insurance and baggage and personal money insurance. It doesn’t provide personal liability insurance. This coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during travel to and from your expedition. (Note: For Australia volunteers, the coverage is limited if the expedition is less than 50 kilometers from your place of residence). This insurance policy is secondary to your existing health insurance policy (e.g., NHS in the U.K., Medicare in Australia). If you signed up through the U.K., U.S., or Japan: If you have additional vacation time before and/or after your Earthwatch expedition that forms part of your overall time away from your place of residence, this additional vacation time is not covered under this policy. Because of different governing laws in each country, policies are specific to each regional Earthwatch office. Please check with your sign-up office about your insurance coverage. For more information, please see www.earthwatch. org/expeditions/travel-insurance. Refer any queries regarding Earthwatch’s policy to Earthwatch’s Operations Department at +1 (978) 450-1222 or insurance@ earthwatch.org.

Emergency Medical and Evacuation Assistance Emergency medical and evacuation assistance from CEGA Medical, a 24-hour international service, is also included in your contribution. Please see the contact information in the Medical and Security Assistance Helpline Numbers section on the inside back cover. You can also call CEGA for non-emergency information before your trip, such as advice on visas and vaccine requirements.

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Project Staff Your Resources in the Field Lenin Enrique Oviedo Correa has ten years of experience on marine biodiversity and habitat analyses projects in his home country of Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Africa. His research focuses on habitat assessments through the behavior and trophic and spatial ecology of small odontocetes (toothed whales, including dolphins). Through his Ph.D. thesis, he aims to determine the ecology of coexistence of dolphins that live in the same area in the tropics and encounter each other frequently, which includes the groups in Golfo Dulce. Lenin is currently a chief scientific advisor and research associate with Centro de Investigacion de Cetaceos de Costa Rica (CEIC). Teams 1–3. David Herra-Miranda ccoordinates all logistics and operational issues involved in working with whales and dolphins in Golfo Dulce. He is currently a research associate with CEIC and the vice president of the board. David has already published his research on critical habitats and human impacts and he is earning a degree in wildlife management. He was born on the Osa Peninsula and he is known as the dolphin whisperer by his research colleagues. David is an excellent photographer and has also worked on several other wildlife surveys in his home area, including of frogs, birds, and lately, big cats. All Teams. Juan Diego Pacheco Polancois currently a research associate and president of the board of CEIC. Diego is about to earn his master’s degree in the management of tropical coastal areas from Universidad de Costa Rica. He is currently working with marine megafauna, focusing on sharks and dolphins as indicators of ecosystem health. Diego is also an expert in ex-situ reproduction of coral reefs. His master’s thesis focuses on bottlenose dolphin ecology and threats to their population health as it applies to management and conservation in Golfo Dulce and coastal areas along the Pacific. Teams 3–8.

Taboga (Marco Loaiciga), also known as the dolphin captain, is the most knowledgeable local skipper in his hometown of Puerto Jiménez. He has been a crucial collaborator in many research and conservation initiatives in Golfo Dulce and the Osa Peninsula. Taboga has provided a safe and effective research platform for the project since it started back in 2005. All Teams. The complete Golfo Dulce Team: Lenin Oviedo, David Herra-Miranda, Juan Diego Pacheco Polanco, Christine Figgener, Marcos (Taboga) Loaiciga, Azucena Herra Miranda, and Jorge Medina. Note: Staff schedules are subject to change.

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Recommended Reading Your Resources at Home resources Books • Kricher, John. 1999. A Neotropical Companion. 2nd ed. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press. (The best book on beauty of the tropical rainforest.)

Costa Rica. IWC/SC/64/O15. Paper presented at the 64th International Whaling Commision Meeting in Panama, 2012.

• Hoyt, Erich. 1998. Seasons of the Whale. Moray, Scotland: Colin Baxter. (The best book on the life of the humpback whale.)

• Bessensen, Brooke. Rainy season extension of the multi-species marine sighting survey in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica, July-August 2011. Osa Conservation Technical Report. (Provides good insight into marine macrofauna in Golfo Dulce).

Articles

Field Guides

• Oviedo, Lenin and Juan Diego Pacheco Polanco. Dolphin conservation in fjord systems. JMBA Global Marine Environment. Issue 6.2. • Oviedo, Lenin. 2006. Dolphins in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica: marine mammals in a tropical fjord. JMBA Global Marine Environment. Issue 4. • Oviedo, Lenin. Dolphin sympatric ecology in a tropical fjord: habitat partitioning by bathymetry and topography as a strategy to coexist. Journal of the Marine Biological Association U.K. 87: 1327-1335.

• Shirihai, Hadoram and Brett Jarrett. 2006. Whales, Dolphins, and Other Marine Mammals of the World. Princeton, N.J.: Princeton University Press. • Folkens, Pieter A. 2002. Guide to Marine Mammals of the World. New York: Knopf. • Garrigues, Richard and Robert Dean. 2007. The birds of Costa Rica: A Field Guide. Ithaca, N.Y.: Cornell University Press.

Project-related Websites

• Oviedo, Lenin et al. The song of the southeast pacific humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) off Las Perlas Archipelago, Panama: preliminary characterization. Aquatic Mammals. 34: 458-463

• http://cetaceansgolfodulce.blogspot.com

• Oviedo, Lenin and Mauricio Solis. Underwater topography determines critical breeding habitat for humpback whales near Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica: implications for Marine Protected Areas. Revista de Biología Tropical. 56(2): 591-602

YouTube: www.youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute

Earthwatch’s Volunteer Resources Facebook: www.facebook.com/earthwatch Twitter: @earthwatch_org. When you’re in the field with Earthwatch, use the hashtag “#globaltweet” to put your work on the map.

• Márquez-Artavia, Amaru et al. The utilization distribution of humpback whales in Golfo Dulce,

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Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

Participant Rights and Responsibilities have the right to place additional restrictions on your ability to share data or certain research-related images. Conversely, an Earthwatch scientist may give written permission to use data and images for academic or profitable activity. Please be sure to ask what is acceptable to the Earthwatch scientist. Fellows or scholarship recipients are sometimes required to submit a written report reflecting what they have learned on a project, sometimes as a step toward developing a curriculum. Earthwatch scientists have the right but not the obligation to review and edit materials involving information gathered on one of their expeditions.

Discrimination

This document contains important information concerning Earthwatch Institute policies and participant rights and responsibilities for inclusion in an Earthwatch expedition. Please read this document thoroughly and sign the Liability Release section of your Earthwatch Participation Form to indicate that you understand and accept the risks inherent to your expedition and the policies, rights, and responsibilities enumerated in this document. You will not be permitted to participate in an expedition until Earthwatch has received the signed release form.

Intellectual Property Rights It is permissible to share photos, videos, and stories of your expedition with family, friends, local media, and in a public forum. Sharing your new perspectives and experiences is welcomed and encouraged. However, please recognize that all information, data, and images shared or gathered in the course of your expedition’s field work become the intellectual property of the Earthwatch scientist. Co-opting or plagiarism of data, images, or information gathered during an expedition for use in a scientific thesis, master’s, or PhD work, or for profit or for the academic or business use of a third party without the permission of the Earthwatch scientist is strictly prohibited. Please be aware that data gathered during the interviewing of local people become the intellectual property of the Earthwatch scientist. Earthwatch scientists

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Earthwatch does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law and respects participants’ right to privacy. However, you must be aware that local laws in countries in which Earthwatch operates may not be antidiscriminatory and that the possibility exists that local residents may not have an awareness of preferred practice regarding discrimination. Discrimination on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, or sexual orientation will not be tolerated on Earthwatch teams. Disruptive behavior or verbal, physical, or any other type of abuse or harassment will also not be tolerated. Violation of Earthwatch’s nondiscrimination policy is grounds for expulsion from the program without a refund.

Intimate relationships Earthwatch scientists, their staff, their colleagues, and their associates are prohibited from becoming romantically involved with participants during the entire duration of the period that the team is in the field. Romantic relationships that may otherwise seem permissible may eventually create an unpleasant or unproductive work environment and are therefore prohibited for the duration of an Earthwatch project.

Sexual Harassment Please recognize that the relationship that exists between Earthwatch scientists and staff and participants is

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Any individual who feels subjected to sexual harassment or has any knowledge of such behavior should report it at once to the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff member. The Earthwatch scientist or Field Team Leader will notify Earthwatch when an accusation of sexual harassment or abuse is made or when such conduct is witnessed. All reports of sexual harassment will be handled with discretion and will be promptly and thoroughly investigated. Any participant who is found to have engaged in conduct constituting sexual harassment will be removed from the expedition at his or her own expense. If a minor is involved in allegations of sexual harassment, his or her parents or guardians will be contacted.

Drugs

analogous to the student-teacher relationship. Therefore, please be aware of the following policies. Sexual harassment of participants by the Earthwatch scientist or Earthwatch staff is prohibited. Likewise, sexual harassment of other participants, Earthwatch field staff, or local people by participants is also prohibited. Sexual harassment infringes on an individual’s right to an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome sexual overtones of conduct either verbal or physical. Sexual harassment does not mean occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. Sexual harassment refers to conduct which is offensive, which harms morale, or which interferes with the effectiveness of Earthwatch expedition teams; such conduct is prohibited. Lewd or vulgar remarks, suggestive comments, displaying derogatory posters, cartoons, or drawings, pressure for dates or sexual favors, and unacceptable physical contact or exposure are examples of what can constitute harassment. No one should be touched in areas that would be covered by a bathing suit. It is important to realize that what may not be offensive to you may be offensive to participants, the local population, or Earthwatch field staff.

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Laws on drug use in most countries are severe and may impose lengthy prison terms or the death penalty. The manufacture, possession, use, purchase, or sale of illegal drugs or other illegal substances while on an Earthwatch expedition is strictly prohibited. Prescription drugs may only be purchased and used by the individual indicated on the prescription in keeping with their intended use guidelines.

Alcohol Local statutes, customs, practices, ordinances, and regulations with regard to the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol are applicable to all participants and project staff on Earthwatch expeditions. Participants and project staff on Earthwatch expeditions must comply with the law of the country in which a project is located regarding the minimum age required to consume alcohol. In addition, restriction on the use, possession, sale, or purchase of alcohol may be set by the Earthwatch scientist. Any restrictions on the consumption of alcohol should be clearly outlined by the project staff in the on-site briefing to participants at the start of the project and in the expedition briefing. Consumption or possession of alcohol or smoking is not permitted on any Earthwatch Teen Team, regardless of local law. Excessive consumption of alcohol by staff or participants is not acceptable on any Earthwatch project. Intoxication

Safeguarding Whales and Dolphins in Costa Rica 2014

can jeopardize personal safety, in addition to the safety of the team. It can also cause delay and hinder response in the event of a crisis or emergency situation. Earthwatch staff and the Earthwatch scientist have the discretion to remove individuals from the project who consume alcohol in a time and manner that endanger the safety and/or productivity of the expedition.

Minors Earthwatch considers participants less than eighteen (18) years of age to be minors. Minors are not permitted to participate on any of Earthwatch’s standard teams unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, in which case the minimum age is fifteen (15). Guardians accompanying minors on standard teams must be 21 years of age or over. Minors on standard teams do not receive additional guidance or supervision from Earthwatch beyond what is offered to the adult participants. The total number of minors on standard teams may be limited on a project by project basis; this will be noted in the expedition briefing. A maximum of two minors may accompany each parent or guardian on a standard or Family Team. Earthwatch has

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developed teams specifically for 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds (“Teen Teams”) as well as teams specifically for families (“Family Teams”) with children as young as 10 years. These teams focus on the same research activities and have the same expectations as our regular teams, but with more facilitation and support. Exceptions for some projects may be made at the discretion of Earthwatch and the Earthwatch scientist. Due to a more in-depth screening process for certain programs that select candidates based on school year rather than age, there may be 18-year-olds fielding on the same team as 15-, 16- and 17-year-olds. Please be aware that some Earthwatch projects do not allow participation by minors in any circumstance.

Participants and Driving Participants are not allowed to drive project vehicles (including motorcycles or all terrain vehicles) or aircraft during an expedition. In select circumstances, participants may be able to drive boats under the direct supervision by project staff. These circumstances are predetermined by project staff in collaboration with Earthwatch. Participants must respect the restrictions for boat driving in place for each project.

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If a project environment is such that participants can drive their own vehicles to the rendezvous, those who have driven themselves to the project may not drive their own vehicles to, from, or for project activities, including the transport of project equipment after arriving at the site. Participants who have driven themselves to the project may choose to utilize their own vehicles during recreational time, but project staff will brief them on any driving restrictions. All driving during recreational time is done at your own risk. Please be advised that the only exception to the above driving restrictions is emergency situations. Riding in other participants’ vehicles is not covered under the participants’ insurance policy for the expedition. Riding in another participant’s vehicle is done at a participant’s own risk.

In the Event of an Emergency In the event of emergencies, judgments must be made by Earthwatch field staff and participants. While Earthwatch makes an effort to ensure that qualified people make the most informed decisions possible, occasionally first aid may be administered and other immediate steps taken by expedition participants who are not licensed medical providers. Each Earthwatch expedition has safety protocols and emergency procedures in place. Earthwatch encourages team members (the field staff and participants) to exercise their best judgment with regard to their own safety and the safety of other team members. Other participants may perform “Good Samaritan” actions, or actions taken to assist fellow participants during emergency situations in the field. However, Earthwatch does not encourage or expect you to jeopardize your own safety or that of others in attempting to rescue or assist your fellow team members.

Right of Refusal Earthwatch reserves the right to refuse an applicant’s participation in an Earthwatch project at any time and to terminate any work being done by a participant and require the participant to vacate the project site if the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff member in his or her absolute discretion considers it appropriate. In this event, the participant (and his or her parents or guardians, if appropriate) will be responsible for arranging and paying for any accommodation, travel, or other arrangements which may

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be necessary following the termination of a participant’s involvement in a project, for whatever reason, and will not be eligible for a refund. Earthwatch may not refuse an applicant’s participation in a project for discriminatory reasons (race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or any other reason prohibited by applicable law). However, an application may be denied in the interest of team compatibility or due to logistical limitations. Earthwatch will make reasonable efforts to accommodate participants with disabilities, and the organization endeavors to find appropriate expeditions for those participants who have physical limitations. Refusal of an applicant is an unusual event and is generally done either because of an applicant’s failure to meet the essential eligibility requirements of a particular project or in the interest of team compatibility. In the event that an applicant is refused participation for health reasons, Earthwatch will refund in full any deposit or payment made toward the expedition. Earthwatch scientists have the right to refuse special requests, such as visits by media (film, photography, or print), special groups, or teams (students, donors, etc.), if they conflict with Earthwatch scientist schedules, safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team. Any participant found in violation of any of the policies described in this document (“Participant Rights and Responsibilities”) is subject to removal from the team at his or her own expense. By signing the Liability Release section of your Earthwatch Participation Form, you are indicating that you have read and understand the policies in this document. Removal of a participant from a team is at the discretion of the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff. In addition, Earthwatch will support the right of the Earthwatch scientist, Field Team Leader, or other Earthwatch staff to send a participant away from a project once in the field should his or her behavior compromise the safety, research objectives, or general performance of the team, or if the participant has violated a stated policy. In the event that a minor is dismissed from a project, Earthwatch will contact the participant’s parents or guardians prior to his or her dismissal. Should a participant be removed from a team, he or she is responsible for any and all costs associated with departure from the team and will receive neither refund of the minimum contribution for the expedition nor any expenses incurred by participation on the expedition. (November 2012)

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Communications Contact Information Emergency Communications We have a VHF radio on the boat, mobile phones and two-way radios in some areas, and a land-line phone at El Chontal. The 24-hour helpline number at Earthwatch in the U.S. is +1 (978) 461-0081-752 or +1 (800) 776-0188 (see the opposite page for calling instructions).

Personal Communications Personal communication with outsiders is not always possible while participating in an expedition. Earthwatch encourages volunteers to minimize outgoing calls and immerse themselves in the experience; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only. However, in case of emergency there will be a land line available. For non emergency personal use, there is a pay phone at the grocery store near El Chontal, in Rincon de Osa.

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contact info Address: El Chontal 300 m al Sur de la Escuela Rincon de Osa Please do not send mail to this address. It could take up to six weeks to arrive. Overnight delivery is not possible. Phone: Available in the printed version of this briefing only. Email: [email protected] [email protected]

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Message from Earthwatch Dear Earthwatcher, Thank you for joining this expedition! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. And while you’re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we’ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for over 40 years. You’re in good hands. We hope this expedition will inspire you to get more involved in conservation and sustainable development priorities—not just out in the field, but also when you return home. We encourage you to share your experiences with others, and to transfer your skills and enthusiasm to environmental conservation efforts in your workplace, community, and home. If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, contact your Earthwatch office. Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition! Sincerely,

Larry Mason President and CEO

Earthwatch’s 24-Hour Helpline If you need help at any time, call Earthwatch’s 24-hour on-call duty officer in the U.S.: +1 (978) 461-0081 +1 (800) 776-0188 Note: The 800-number works as a toll free call only for calls placed within the U.S. After business hours, leave a message with our live answering service. State that you have an emergency and give the name of your expedition, your name, the location from which you are calling, and if possible, a phone number where you can be reached. An Earthwatch staff person will respond to your call within one hour.

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Medical and Security Assistance Helpline Numbers (For assistance while in the field) When calling any of the helplines, please mention Earthwatch and policy reference number 560020011200. CEGA Emergency Medical & Travel Assistance: +44 (0) 20 3059 8770 You may call this number collect or reverse charges if necessary in a medical emergency. Henderson Risk Security Assistance and Advice: +44 (0) 20 3059 8772 [email protected]

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Earthwatch U.S. 114 Western Ave. Boston, MA 02134 [email protected] www.earthwatch.org Phone: 1-978-461-0081 Toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188 Fax: 1-978-461-2332

Earthwatch U.K. Mayfield House 256 Banbury Rd. Oxford, OX2 7DE United Kingdom

Earthwatch Australia 126 Bank St. South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia

Earthwatch Japan Food Science Bldg. 4F The University of Tokyo 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657, Japan

[email protected] www.earthwatch.org

[email protected] www.earthwatch.org

[email protected] www.earthwatch.org

Phone: 44-0-1865-318-838 Fax: 44-0-1865-311-383

Phone: 61-0-3-9016-7590 Fax: 61-0-3-9686-3652

Phone: 81-0-3-6686-0300 Fax: 81-0-3-6686-0477