This project is located at the San Cristobal-Galapagos Biological Research Station. The objective is to establish a working field research station for the development of conservation and development initiatives in the highland regions of San Cristobal in the Galapagos Island chain.

Project Description

The remains of the native forest on the island have been significantly reduced from their original size given the agricultural activities on the island during past years. Additionally, many of the original plants have been replaced with foreign species introduced to the islands by humans, such as Cedar and Cascarilla, which years earlier, had great economic value. Therefore, the station started a forest nursery in order to promote the recovery of the natural areas and native species.

The station is also working with local farm owners in efforts to develop organic agricultural alternatives for fruit and vegetable production with an end goal to sell the products to the local populations on the island. Due to the importation of agricultural products from the continent, everyday new exotic species are being introduced to the island. The volunteers will participate in the restoration of habitats and the organic agriculture component.

Once a week, the volunteers will have the opportunity to go along with personnel from the station on hikes and excursions to tourist sites that are ecologically important (a natural lake, beaches, native forests) for teaching visitors about the ecological issues within and the social dynamics of the Gal‡pagos Islands.

Volunteers will also have the opportunity to support the research and monitoring of the diverse projects that are developed on the reserve.

Accommodation

The station houses up to 28 people. Housing is safe, clean and secure with mosquito nets on beds. Rooms hold 2-4 people each.

8 Day Project Schedule

• Day 1 Arrive in Quito
• Day 2 Transfer to Galapagos
• Day 3-6    Volunteer Project
• Day 7 Recreation Activities
• Day 8 Return to USA

Project Service Fee

The project service fee for this project pays for all food, lodging, in-country transportation, insurance, mid-program recreation, volunteer project management, registration fees, and a full time bilingual project coordinator and creates a sustainable source of funds for partner agencies and communities.

 Space Is Limited

Fill out and return a Group Signup Form to reserve your space