Dear MARMAM list students,

Some volunteer spots are still available this season for the Bottlenose Dolphin (T. truncatus) Conservation Project with Vivamar Society.

With the help of students and volunteer work we have obtained the baseline data about the local dolphin population (distribution, abundance) which resulted in first publication about the local dolphin population. We now continue to collect data about Dolphin Watching Boat influence on Dolphin Behaviour and interactions with fishermen in the area.

Activities comprise also raising the awareness of local people, nautical tourists, communication to fishermen  - all to present the importance of dolphin preservation for the marine ecosystem. Along with the research methods students will have the opportunity to learn how to shape and deliver key messages to the particular stakeholders, excercises that will be useful for the further career.

VIVAMAR teams are small and offer intense connection between the team members and attention of a researcher to the motivated students. The program comprises different lectures on the Marine Mammal topic and offers hands on experiences in the field research, including methodology, data analysis and engagement in Vivamar awareness activities to the local people.

For the team dates please check here: http://vivamar.org/volunteer/

You can see more about our activities: http://vivamar.org/research-projects/

This is an excellent offer to students that would like to visit a new country, yet to help in conservation of this key marine species in the area of the NE Adriatic.

DURATION, COST and APPLICATION:

You are welcome to write to info@vivamar.org for additional information (cost details, a welcome pack, logistic details and how to apply).

Required Qualifications and conditins:

• no previous experience is mandatory but is an advantage,
• min work on a programme 4-6 hours/day; you will be directly engaged in the project  8 out of 11 days,
• strong interest to study marine mammals, positive attitude to other team members,
• being able to recognize the importance of dolphin conservation & research for the local Marine Ecosystem and through this - Vivamar efforts in the area,
•  independent work, as well as in the group,
• basic computer literacy in Microsoft Office and possible ability in writing the reports (or at least a will to learn that);

We hope to see you with Vivamar this summer!

Cheers,

DARJA RIBARIČ, MPhil in biological science

darja.ribaric@vivamar.org
President and Head researcher
VIVAMAR Society for the Sustainable Development for the Sea

Dolphin Research & Conservation / Marine Wildlife Awareness 

Recognised by the Ministry of the

Environment for the public interest 215-10/2007/4