1. travel
2. tourist destinations
3. caribbean

EARTHWATCH 2015
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
Nicole Morrill Page 1 6/22/15Nicole Morrill Page 1 6/22/15
MESSAGES FROM EARTHWATCH
DEAR EARTHWATCHER,
Welcome to the Puerto Rico’s Rainforest expedition, part of the Las Casas de la Selva tropical rainforest enrichment and
sustainable forestry project on the beautiful Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. When you join us this year, you will be monitoring
endangered tree species, helping on thinning studies, and carrying out herpetological surveys. All studies help the project staff
assess the results of 30 years of research in the sustainable use of tropical rainforest land, and the impact of our forestry work
on rainforest ecology. The data collected will help us plan for the future, decide how to best expand our research, choose what
to try next, and become better stewards of our rainforest biome.
You’ll participate in physically demanding research: hiking through beautiful tropical rainforests, sometimes climbing up steep
hillsides and sometimes following fast-flowing rivers. You will also have the chance to join a night expedition into the forest
to help count coquí frogs. In your recreational time, you will be able to enjoy hikes, take part in some forest-related craft
activities, use the project library to learn more about the ecology of the area, or just relax and enjoy an area of the rainforest
that very few other people have had a chance to visit (our site is well off the beaten track).
In the afternoons you’ll return to comfortable accommodations, a hot shower, some presentations, fun and games, great meals,
and magical evenings listening to the coquís calling throughout the night.
We very much look forward to welcoming you here,
Thrity (“3t”) Vakil, Mark Nelson, Norman Greenhawk, and Earthwatch scientists
And staff at Las Casas de la Selva, Andrés Rúa and Magha Garcia Medina
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
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION ................. 4
TRIP PLANNER ............................ 5
EXPEDITION PACKING LIST .............. 6
THE RESEARCH ........................... 7
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD ................ 9
ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD ......... 10
TRAVEL TIPS .............................. 12
PROJECT CONDITIONS ................... 13
SAFETY .................................... 16
PROJECT STAFF .......................... 17
RECOMMENDED READING ............... 18
EMERGENCY NUMBERS .................. 20
3
GENERAL INFORMATION
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
EARTHWATCH SCIENTISTS
EXPEDITION DATES
Thrity (“3t”) Vakil
Team 2: Jun. 21– Jun. 30, 2015
Mark Nelson
Team 3 (TEEN*): Jul. 6- Jul 15, 2015
Norman Greenhawk
Team 4 (TEEN*): Jul. 16- Jul 25, 2015
RESEARCH SITE
Team 5: Dec. 28, 2015–Jan. 06, 2016
Las Casas de la Selva, Patillas, Puerto Rico
Team 6: Jan. 11–Jan. 20, 2016
Please refrain from booking flights until
you receive your complete rendezvous
information, which will be sent to you
upon request
.
4
TRIP PLANNER
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
TRIP PLANNER
IMMEDIATELY
60 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION
□ Make sure you understand and agree to
Earthwatch’s Terms and Conditions.
□ If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance,
note that some policies require purchase when your
expedition is booked.
□ Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations
for your project site.
□ Review the Packing Checklist to make sure you
have all the clothing, personal supplies and
equipment needed.
90 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION
30 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION
□ Log in at earthwatch.org to complete your
volunteer forms.
□ Pay any outstanding balance for your expedition.
□ Book travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning
section for details).
□ If traveling internationally, make sure your
passport is current and, if necessary, obtain a visa
for your destination country.
□ Leave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number
with a relative or friend.
□ Leave copies of your passport, visa, and airline
tickets with a relative or friend.
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 effort to keep you well informed before you go into the field.
5
EXPEDITION PACKING LIST
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
EXPEDITION PACKING LIST
BEDDING AND BATHING
GENERAL
□ 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)
NOTE: Mattresses, sheets, and pillows will be provided.
□ Lightweight sleeping bag
□ Towel (we recommend a quick-drying pack towel from
a camping store)
PERSONAL SUPPLIES
□ Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are
encouraged)
□ Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands while
in the field)
□ Personal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics,
antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers,
etc.) and medications
□ Spending money
CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR FIELDWORK
NOTE: Please bring plenty of changes of clothing. We recommend
at least four changes of field clothes. It is very difficult to get
clothing completely dry due to the high humidity and frequent rain.
□ Earthwatch T-shirt
□ Strong, comfortable, well-worn-in hiking boots or shoes with
good tread and good ankle support (synthetic materials that dry
easily are preferable to leather, which may get moldy). NOTE:
Participants without appropriate footwear will not be permitted
to conduct fieldwork. Tennis shoes, sneakers, and rubber boots
(e.g., Wellington, gumboots) are NOT suitable for hiking in the
forest. Your boots will get wet, especially during the hikes into
the valleys, which have rivers. If possible, bring two pairs so
you can alternate boots and allow them to dry between uses.
□ Lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts (nylon or synthetic
blend strongly recommended; long sleeves can protect from insect
bites and scratches)
□ At least four pairs of lightweight, quick-drying pants/trousers
(nylon or synthetic blend strongly recommended)
□ Warm sweatshirt (especially for winter teams, Nov.—Feb.)
□ At least eight pairs of socks (wool or synthetic hiking socks
are best)
□ Rain gear (poncho or jacket, pants, and hood or hat)
□ Bandana(s) for neck protection against sun and insects
OPTIONAL ITEMS
□ Gaiters for hiking in the forest; highly recommended to help
keep your pants, socks, and shoes clean and dry
□ Rain pants, especially for the frog studies
□ Comfortable shoes to change into after conducting field work
□ Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery
□ Binoculars—this is a fantastic place for birdwatching
□ Hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of the
expedition
□ Dry bag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect equipment
like cameras from dust, humidity, and water
□ Books, games, art supplies, etc. for free time
□ Earplugs to block out the frog noise at night
□ Flip flops or sandals for the shower
□ Swimsuit
□ Travel guidebook
□ Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for free time
□ Compass (if you have your own, please bring it)
□ Field Guide
□ Large hip sack or waist pack for equipment
□ Knee pads for frog studies
□ Used books to donate to the project library for other travelers
□ Pocket knife (remember to pack this in your checked luggage)
□ Some duct tape (a whole roll is not necessary)
□ Favorite snack food
□ Presentation Materials: do you have a hobby or career that you
think would be of interest to other volunteers? If so, consider
giving a presentation. Pictures or PowerPoint presentations can
be displayed on the project computer.
CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR LEISURE
□ At least one set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition
□ Hat with wide brim for sun protection and beach towel for
recreational day at the beach
FIELD SUPPLIES
□ Small daypack to keep your personal items together and dry
□ Headlamp (preferred) or flashlight/torch with extra batteries
and extra bulb (essential)
□ Working gloves, preferably heavy canvas type (very important)
□ Two plastic containers, e.g., Tupperware, for lunches
□ At least two large water bottles able to hold at least one liter
each (you will need to carry your fluids for the day)
□ Sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 or higher
NOTE: 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.
6
THE RESEARCH
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
THE STORY
Each year, people cut down between three and six billion
trees from the world’s forests, according to the UN’s Food
and Agriculture Organization—roughly the same as annually
removing an area of trees the size of Ireland. We rely on
these trees for timber, paper, and other wood products and
the space they leave behind for raising livestock and
cultivating crops. Humans have extensively disturbed most
of Puerto Rico’s forests over the last few centuries,
traditionally by using them for agriculture, coffee
plantations, and pastures. As standards of living have risen
and reliance on farming has lessened, wood has increasingly
been harvested for fires and charcoal. Most recently, as
more people move to cities, urban sprawl threatens forest
landscapes. The most marginal of already harvested lands
have reverted to secondary forest—that is, they have grown
over with a second generation of trees—and remain
untended and unmanaged until it proves profitable to
exploit them again for timber, fuel, or agriculture.
If we want to keep using forests in Puerto Rico and globally,
we must understand their ecology—in other words, how all
of the organisms that live within them coexist. Ecological
research can lead to the development of smart
management plans, which will help us preserve the forests
for the future even as we continue to harvest trees and use
the cleared land. In the case of Puerto Rico, ecologically
sound management plans can also contribute significantly
to the island’s economy.
7
RESEARCH AIMS
• Measuring trees to assess the effectiveness of liberation
thinning (trimming older trees from the canopy so that
younger trees can thrive) on maturation and volume of
tree crops in secondary forest areas.
This project takes place on 409 hectares (about 1.5 square
miles) of rainforest, which contain some of the steepest
slopes and most diverse ecology in the mountains of
southeastern Puerto Rico. You’ll mostly work in old
secondary forest dominated by the tabonuco tree, a
majestic species with smooth, pale bark that can grow up
to about 100 feet (30 meters) tall. As an Earthwatch
participant, you’ll join up with the Las Casas de la Selva
program, established in 1983 as an experimental research
project. We at Las Casas have created an approach to
profiting from a rainforest environment without diminishing
its species richness, biological diversity, or total biomass
(the mass of all living organisms in the forest). Most other
rainforest researchers work in mature rainforests, so our
focus on secondary growth forest is especially important.
• Planting native tree species as part of a U.S. Fish and
Wildlife program.
• Surveying for anole lizards.
• Surveying for several endemic species of
Eleutherodactylus frogs
• Take swab samples of frogs to test for the presence
of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), an amphibian
pathogen
• Conducting general herpetological surveys in Icaco
and Hormiga valleys
Specifically, you’ll help with the following activities:
The area around our base is particularly well suited for
studying these questions because it has been dramatically
impacted by humans. People have cleared much secondary
rainforest to accommodate agriculture and livestock
grazing, and because much of the land slopes steeply, it
erodes severely once cleared of plants. Unless local farmers
heavily apply chemical fertilizers to this nutrient-depleted
land, their crop yield is poor. At this project, we’re testing
the viability of line-planting enrichment (interplanting tree
species in already growing forest) on this same land, which
is clearly unfit for long-term agricultural use. We’re looking
not just at the health of the enriched forest, but also at
how this planting impacts the diversity and abundance of
local reptiles and amphibians, in particular the coquí, a
nocturnal frog. If our results prove successful, we hope to
encourage similar forest-regenerating practices throughout
Puerto Rico.
When we establish new tree study plots with new tree
seedlings or other plants, you’ll label each plant and map
its location in the plot on a reference grid. You’ll also help
map our study areas and enter data.
For the frog and anole studies, you will help locate animals
in their habitats; identify them; capture, measure, and
determine the sex of frogs; and measure the lizard or frog
abundance and diversity within the areas we are covering.
You will hike to one or both of the valleys located at Las
Casas de la Selva to conduct this research. Little to no
research has been conducted in these areas, and you will
be among the first volunteers to discover what species of
reptiles and amphibians inhabit the valleys.
You’ll also record data on the weather.
We can usually accommodate volunteers with a range of
physical abilities and stamina, but at minimum, you must
be able to walk or hike often muddy and rugged terrain
without difficulty or assistance. Selecting this expedition
means that you are able to negotiate long hikes on terrain
that is often steep, muddy and dangerous.
New research components began in 2013, including planting
tree species native to Puerto Rico as part of a U.S. Fish and
Wildlife program to enhance the habitat for endangered
flora and fauna. Already, the data collected with the help
of Earthwatch volunteers has led us to implement new landmanagement plans and figure out how to direct our future
research studies. The Las Casas project, with the
contribution Earthwatchers like you have made, has become
a living demonstration of new models for forest
management in Puerto Rico and the Caribbean.
If you don’t feel comfortable hiking at night, you can
participate in other aspects of the study
Inclement weather conditions can make certain activities
hazardous and, in some cases, prevent proper data from
being collected. In this challenging research environment,
we take pleasure when our volunteers overcome challenges
and open themselves up to the joy of the outdoor life.
We look forward to welcoming you into the ranks of our
volunteers and introducing you the truly stunning Puerto
Rican rainforest.
HOW YOU WILL HELP
Because we’re looking at the health of the whole rainforest
ecosystem, you’ll experience a rich array of research
activities. You’ll generally get to work on four or five
different studies during your stay, which may include:
• Monitoring the development of the line-planted areas to
measure the impacts on economic viability, tree density,
and tree growth at later stages of their growth cycle.
8
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
PLANS FOR YOUR TEAM
RECREATIONAL TIME: We’ll organize an afternoon excursion
(when possible) to our local beach in Patillas and a dinner in
the mountains, or a local town Guavate, for barbecue, music,
and dancing. We try to support community based businesses,
and dinner will be at a place of our choice to ensure a great
experience. Be prepared to spend between US$25 to $50 on
this afternoon and evening excursion.
When you arrive, the Earthwatch scientists will present
on the history of the project, rainforest ecology, the effects
of human intervention on the ecosystem, and the global
importance of rainforests. You will also get a site
orientation and safety talk.
During the week, staff members will introduce you to the
most common plant, lizard, amphibian, and bird species in
our forest, and teach you about biodiversity in Puerto Rico.
We’ll also train you on taking measurements, recording
data, and identifying various species. For the lizard, and
frog studies, you’ll learn about the following aspects of
the species:
On one day, we’ll plan a trip to one of the major cultural
centers in Puerto Rico, be it Old San Juan, Ponce, Luquillo,
Fajardo, or another destination. Depending on the
destination and weather, there will be time for the beach
and shopping, as well as opportunities to visit museums,
bars, and restaurants. Please prepare to pay approximately
US$150 to cover entrance fees or day passes and meals out
during the day.
• General characteristics and how to distinguish species
• Ecological and cultural importance
At the end of a work period, you can relax, enjoy our
library, take a walk to a river, and generally take in the
ambiance of the forest.
• Natural history (e.g., their calls, reproductive habits,
predators, prey, and habitat)
• Why some are endangered, threatened, or declining
and how we can help them
SMOKING AND DRINKING: We do not allow smoking in any
of the buildings at the homestead, nor do we allow it in the
open-air dining area. If you’re a smoker, be prepared to
smoke outside. We do allow the sensible use of alcohol,
like wine at dinner, but reserve the right to make the
expedition “dry” if its presence becomes a problem.
• Field methods for monitoring animals and data
collection
Staff members will give evening presentations on topics
related to the project and their other ecological research.
We also encourage you to present on subjects you feel will
interest the team (e.g., interesting work or hobbies, other
field experiences).
Missing out on a day in the field because you are hung over
is not only a loss to you, but is disrespectful to our staff and
your fellow team members.
ITINERARY
Weather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.
At least one day during the expedition, there will be a long hike into the
valleys on the property to conduct both daytime lizard surveys and nighttime
frog surveys. Because it is a long day, there will be a later start to the day.
The tentative schedule for the day is:
NOTE: Because Teams 4 to 5 are six-day teams, they will have a slightly
adjusted itineraries.
DAYS 2–4
9:00 a.m.
DAYS 2–4
7:30 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
Rise, eat breakfast, and prepare a packed lunch
Depart for the research site by foot
8:30 a.m.–noon
Fieldwork and data recording
Noon
Break for lunch
12:30–3:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m.
Fieldwork and data recording
Return to house; input data and recreational time
6:30 p.m.
Dinner, followed by staff or volunteer presentations
12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m.
11:00 p.m.
Late breakfast, followed by field prep (training,
talks, packing equipment
Lunch
Depart for hike
Return to the homestead, enjoy a hot snack
DAY 5: Recreational day: excursion day
DAYS 6–9: The schedule will be the same as on Days 2–4, with an added
closing celebration and bonfire at 7:30 p.m. on Day 9 (subject to weather
9
ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD
ABOUT YOUR HOME IN THE FIELD
SLEEPING
BATHROOMS
You’ll stay in our bunkhouses or in large tents on platforms,
protected by roofs that keep the camping area dry; both
bunkhouses and tents are on the main homestead. The
bunkhouses accommodate ten each. If sleeping in a tent,
you’ll either stay alone or with another person of the same
gender, depending on the number of volunteers. It may be
possible to accommodate couples in private tents. If you
have a preference for one or the other sleeping area, we’ll
do our best to accommodate you, but arrangements will
depend on the number and gender of volunteers.
There is a shower block with four showers that have hot
and cold running water, along with two toilets.
ELECTRICITY
The area has frequent power failure during heavy rains,
and we have a small generator for essential use only on
site. Candlelight dinners are a frequent occurrence. Unless
you absolutely must bring electronic devices, we don’t
recommend that you do; if you do, please remember that
humidity can damage your electronic equipment and that
the power is irregular.
We provide mattresses, sheets, and pillows for both the
tents and the bunkhouse; however, please bring your own
lightweight sleeping bag, as the evenings can get chilly
(although it is in the tropics, the project site is in the
mountains and can be considerably cooler at night than at
lower elevations). Although we provide tents, you may
bring and pitch your own if you wish.
10
INTERNET AND COMMUNICATIONS
DISTANCE TO THE FIELD SITE
There may be some limited cell phone reception but please
be prepared to do without phones and email during your
stay. The project site has high- speed Internet service with
a wireless connection, but capacity for the researchers is
limited, and you are not guaranteed access to email. We
discourage volunteers from bringing their own laptops, as
the humidity and rain create a high risk of damage. Do not
plan to conduct business by Internet during the expedition,
as there is very limited office space available. We strongly
encourage you to tell friends and colleagues that you’ll be
out of communication during your stay, except for an
emergency. Finally, please bring headphones if you would
like to listen to your personal radio or mp3 player outside of
research time.
Generally, we can walk to all sites within two hours;
some are very close, and most are within a half-hour
walk. However, for the hikes into the valleys, be prepared
to hike for several hours.
FOOD AND WATER
The project has many great chefs on staff, and you’ll have
the opportunity to sample Caribbean cooking and other
diverse cuisines. Local fruits, vegetables, and seasonal
greens from the garden will be used whenever possible.
Three volunteers will be asked to assist with meal
preparation and clean-up after each breakfast and dinner.
Below are examples of the foods you might expect in the
field. Variety depends on availability, and while this list
provides a general idea of food types, please be flexible.
FACILITIES AND AMENITIES
The small main building has a library and office and a
kitchen area that is open on one side. A long roof attached
to this building covers an open-air dining area. You can
access the dining area at all hours of the day; there, you
can relax, read a book, or play cards at the table.
TYPICAL MEALS
We have limited refrigerator space, but it is available to
volunteers who must bring items that need refrigeration
(e.g. medications). You do not need to bring food items
unless you have dietary restrictions.
We advise that you bring enough clothing so that you will
not need to wash clothes during the expedition. Due to the
expense of running the washing machine, we generally
don’t allow volunteers to use it, unless the expedition has
been particularly muddy. Also, we don’t have a dryer,
which means that any washed clothes will probably sit on
the clothes line, wet, for the remainder of the expedition.
BREAKFAST
Cereal, eggs, pancakes, toast, fruit, oatmeal,
coffee, and tea
LUNCH
Sandwiches (you’ll make your own from a
choice of cheeses, cold meats, tuna, salad
items, etc.), fruit, trail mix
DINNER
Puerto Rican-style rice and beans, pasta dishes,
salads, meat and vegetarian options
DESSERT
fruit, pastries, cakes
BEVERAGES
Filtered river water and bottled water, juice,
coffee, a variety of black and garden herbal
teas.
SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements
(e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food
allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible, and
note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms.
Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed. Vegetarian
and vegan diets can be accommodated on site, but when we
are off site, it may be difficult to find food free of animal
products. If this is an issue, you are encouraged to bring
some snacks from home. You can also make sandwiches at
the project site to bring with you when we go out.
11
TRAVEL TIPS
SUGGESTIONS FOR THE ROAD
YOUR DESTINATION
PASSPORTS AND VISAS
LANGUAGE: The official languages of Puerto Rico are
Spanish and English (Puerto Rico is a part of the United
States of America). The project will be conducted in
English. Most Puerto Ricans speak both Spanish and English.
Most Puerto Ricans like to meet visitors with at least
remedial Spanish-speaking abilities; this is NOT at all
required, but merely a cultural nicety.
Passport and visa requirements are subject to change.
Check with your travel advisor, embassy or consulate in
your home country for requirements specific to your
circumstances. Generally, passports must be valid for at
least six months from the date of entry and a return ticket
is required.
TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC -4.
ELECTRICITY: 120 volts, 60 Hz, standard U.S. two-prong,
flat pin plug. Plugs are two flat parallel prongs or two flat
parallel prongs and one cylindrical grounding prong.
MONEY MATTERS
LOCAL CURRENCY: U.S. dollar
Citizenship
Passport Required?
Visa Required?
United States
Yes
No
United Kingdom
Yes
No
Europe
Yes
No
Australia
Yes
No
Japan
Yes
No
If a visa is required, participants should apply for a
TOURIST visa. Please note that obtaining a visa can take
weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa
agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.
PERSONAL FUNDS: The airport has ATMs and moneychanging facilities, but bank services and ATMs will not be
available at the research site. ATMs are also available
during the day out, but not during the evening out in
Guavate or Patillas. You won’t be able to use traveler’s
checks or credit cards at the research site. Therefore, bring
some cash in U.S. dollars to purchase drinks and snacks, and
for entrance fees for recreational activities (at least US$200
is recommended) during the expedition. Workers will
expect to be tipped according to the following: restaurant
staff (15-20%), taxi drivers (15-20%), and porters at the
airport (at least $1 per bag).
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.
12
PROJECT CONDITIONS
THE FIELD ENVIRONMENT
GENERAL CONDITIONS
ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
The information that follows is as accurate as possible,
but please keep in mind that conditions may change.
All participants must be able to:
□ Follow verbal and/or visual instructions.
The forest flora varies greatly from area to area. Areas
with large, mature trees have relatively thin undergrowth
and are easy to work in. Areas that have been severely
disturbed due to landslides or tree-fall may have thick
undergrowth with sharp razor grass. The humidity can
be high, especially in the summer, but as the site is at
a relatively high elevation, there is generally a breeze
and conditions rarely get unbearably hot and sticky. For
the most part, the tree canopy will shade you. June to
November is hurricane season in Puerto Rico. The terrain
ranges from very narrow ridge tops, down generally convex
upper slopes and concave mid and lower slopes (generally
30-45 degrees in slope), to fast-running perennial streams.
□ Wear all protective equipment recommended
or required by industry standards.
□ Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather and
in the potential presence of wild animals and insects.
□ Endure tropical (hot and humid) work conditions.
□ Negotiate steep slopes in densely wooded forest
on uneven, muddy terrain up to five miles a day,
often to remote valley locations. (BOLD)
□ Be comfortable hiking and conducting field work
at night.
□ Be willing to walk in/through the shallow rivers in
the valley as often as instructed to conduct general
herpetological surveys
GENERAL CONDITIONS
□ Get down low to the ground to search for frogs, lizards,
and plants for up to six hours a day (not continuous).
HUMIDITY: High (up to 99%), especially in the summer months
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE: 23º C–73º F
ALTITUDE: 600–610 m / 1,970–2,000 ft.
AVERAGE RAINFALL: 3,000 mm / 118 in
13
POTENTIAL HAZARDS
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
HAZARD TYPE
ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS
Transportation
A professional bus company that also runs the local school buses will transport volunteers. Drivers in
Puerto Rico do not follow Western standards and large buses don’t have seatbelts. Volunteers are not
permitted to drive, and seatbelts, when available, must be worn at all times.
Terrain
The terrain can be steep, wet, muddy and dangerous. The main forest road is relatively even and well
maintained. Once off the road and in the forest, there is increased risk of slipping, falling, and injuring
yourself due to uneven and frequently muddy terrain. The steep slopes on which the team will work will
be slippery in wet weather. Risks will be discussed with the group before going into a particular area of
the forest. The best way to prevent injuries of this manner is to walk slowly and pay careful attention to
your surroundings. Be prepared to get very muddy and be aware that you may have to crawl up slopes or
slide down them. This does not require a great deal of acrobatics but, rather, a willingness to get dirty.
Proper footwear—hiking boots with good tread and ankle support—is essential; volunteers who do not have
adequate footwear will not be permitted to join the team at the study sites.
Animals/Plants
There are non-aggressive bees and wasps in the forest. Those who know they are allergic to bee or wasp
stings must carry the appropriate medication (antihistamines, at least two EpiPens, etc.) just in case.
Mosquitoes and midges are also present but not in large numbers. There is no malaria in Puerto Rico,
but dengue fever is common (see the Safety section for more information). The best protection are long
sleeves, socks, long pants, and mosquito repellent.
The forest has razor grass, which is why long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and gloves are important.
There are also stinging nettles and plants that contain toxic sap. These will be pointed out so they can
be avoided. Walk carefully and pay attention to your surrounding at all times.
Climate/Weather
There may be high humidity and heavy rain, so you should bring good raingear and quick-drying clothing.
The sun is very strong in the Caribbean, so use sunscreen lotion with high SPF protection and appropriate
clothing (wide- brimmed hat, long sleeves, sunglasses, etc.) if you visit the beach during your stay in
Puerto Rico. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
Because of the high humidity, persons using a hearing aid may find it doesn’t work properly. You should
consider purchasing a hearing aid dehumidifier.
June to November is hurricane season. In the event of an approaching hurricane, we will take you to
a place of safety, either a hotel near the airport or, if time does not permit, a local hurricane shelter.
In the event of inclement weather, heed staff instruction without fail.
Project Tasks/
Equipment
Some project tasks may result in slightly increased risk, mainly due to the area of the forest being
studied. Any risks will be assessed on a day-to-day basis. Staff will inform the team of all risks and risk
prevention for all areas and tasks before entering each area. Always pay attention to your surroundings
and heed staff instructions.
Personal Security
The site is reasonably secure and there is always staff on site at the homestead so theft is not a common
concern. However, it is always best practice to leave any unnecessary valuables at home. In addition, you
are encouraged not to bring any high-value equipment, especially electronic equipment, as the high
humidity can damage it.
14
POTENTIAL HAZARDS
PUERTO RICO’S RAINFOREST
HAZARD TYPE
Swimming
ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONS
Swimming may be possible during recreational time, and typical water-related risks will be present. A
certified lifeguard is unlikely to be available, so all swimming will be at your own risk. We may visit a
local beach during the recreational day, and there are also swimming holes and shallow, slow-moving
rivers on and off site for swimming. These holes are not deep enough to dive into; doing so may result in
serious injury. Certain areas used for swimming are accessible only by climbing up or down steep
gradients. Take care when accessing these areas at any time. Swimming in some areas may not be
permitted in rainy weather as the often-steep terrain around them may become muddy and slippery.
Always swim in pairs or groups and inform staff where and when you’ll be swimming. Swimming is not
permitted at night or if the project staff considers water conditions unsafe.
15
SAFETY
HEALTH INFORMATION
IMMUNIZATIONS
PROJECT VACCINATIONS
Please be sure your routine immunizations are up-to-date
(for example diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles,
mumps, rubella and varicella). Medical decisions are the
responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and
the following are recommendations only. Visit the Healix
Travel Oracle website through the “Travel Assistance and
Advice” page in your Earthwatch portal, cdc.gov or who.int
for guidance on immunizations.
REQUIRED: If traveling from countries or regions where
yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of
vaccination. You may need to present this certificate
when you arrive in country.
RECOMMENDED FOR HEALTH REASONS: Hepatitis A,
Hepatitis B
ADVICE REGARDING DISEASES
EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD
Traveler’s diarrhea affects many international travelers.
Major injuries will involve a car ride to the nearest hospital,
40 minutes away from the project site. The project vehicle
is always on site when volunteers are on expeditions in
the field. The project vehicle may not always be available
when volunteers are not in the field and are resting at
the homestead.
Diseases found in Puerto Rico include dengue fever,
leptospirosis, and typhoid. Please see the U.S. Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov) or the World
Health Organization (who.int) websites for more
information on these conditions and how to avoid them.
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.
In the event of an exceptionally serious major bodily
injury, where the injured cannot be moved and carried
out, an ambulance will be called by telephone after
first aid is administered.
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.
In the case of a personal emergency that requires early
departure, the project staff will assist in helping the
participant get to the airport. All transportation and
any other fees will be paid for by the participant.
A few notes on vaccinations and treatment:
MALARIA: Currently, malaria is not an issue in Puerto Rico.
TUBERCULOSIS: Volunteers returning from developing
countries may wish to have a (PPD)-tuberculin skin-test
to screen for potential infection.
PHYSICIAN, NURSE, OR EMT ON STAFF: Project staff
members are not medical professionals.
STAFF CERTIFIED IN SAFETY TRAINING:
CPR: 3t Vakil, Andres Rua, Norman Greenhawk
FIRST AID: 3t Vakil, Andres Rua, Norman Greenhawk
WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER: 3t Vakil
WATER SAFETY: Norman Greenhawk
16
PROJECT STAFF
YOUR RESOURCES IN THE FIELD
DR. MARK NELSON has worked for several decades in many aspects of ecosystem research. Among many
other things, he serves as the chairman and CEO of the Institute of Ecotechnics (ecotechnics.edu), the
vice chairman of Global Ecotechnics Corporation (globalecotechnics.com) and the founder/director of
Wastewater Gardens International (wastewatergardens.com). He also directed space and environmental
applications for Space Biospheres Ventures, which created and operated Biosphere 2—the world’s first
laboratory for global ecology—and was a member of the eight-person crew for the first two-year closure
experiment within Biosphere 2. On this project, Mark runs the preparation and analysis of the tree study
data. Schedule: Team 3
THRITY “3T” VAKIL, president of Tropic Ventures Education & Research Foundation, has worked in this
Puerto Rican rainforest for over fifteen years. 3t has worked directly with Earthwatch teams for 15
years, and has been a Principal Investigator for eight years, (67 Earthwatch teams = approximately 600
international volunteers). Along with managing volunteer youth groups and all Earthwatch expeditions,
she has a hand in every aspect of forestry, including tree and vine identification and research; selection
of trees for harvest; logging and sawing operations; and marketing and selling of sustainably grown and
harvested wood, wood products, and non-wood forest products. Born in Kenya, she has always been an
avid explorer of nature, and her travels have taken her all over the world. She is also an accomplished
painter, a web and graphic designer, a documentarian, and a photographer. Schedule: All Teams
NORMAN GREENHAWK holds a degree in environmental studies from Washington College in
Chestertown, Maryland. Norman has 15 years of experience in the field of herpetology and has
successfully raised more than 40 species of reptiles and amphibians in captivity. Norman has been
leading Earthwatch groups into the forest to study reptiles and amphibians for six years, and with the
help of these volunteers has discovered that Las Casas de la Selva is home to many endangered,
endemic species such as E. cooki (IUCN Vulnerable) and E. richmondi (IUCN Critically Endangered).
Norman is also the 2013 winner of the Earthwatch Neville Shulman Award for Emerging Environmental
Leaders; with this award, Norman spent seven months studying reptiles and amphibians in Panama,
Belize, Honduras, and Bolivia. Norman is an incoming graduate student at Universidad de Puerto Rico,
Recinto Rio Piedras. Schedule: All Teams
ANDRÉS RÚA GONZÁLEZ, director of technical systems at the project, and is fros from Marin Bajo in
Patillas, Puerto Rico. A qualified chainsaw operator, he manages the tree-felling operations, hauling,
and milling wood. He is also a fine woodworker, a proficient tractor driver, a skilled electrician, an
organic gardener, and a talented composer and musician. He has worked with all Earthwatch groups
since 2005, and has led many other volunteer youth groups in the field. He has involved Las Casas de
la Selva in many community and environmental projects and Andrés also organized a complex event to
clean up the reservoir of Lake Patillas, calling hundreds of local people to action. Andrés is currently
working on the Nuestra Madera Project, to educate and access people to the woods of Puerto Rico.
Schedule: All Teams
NOTE: All staff schedules are subject to change.
17
RECOMMENDED READING
YOUR RESOURCES AT HOME
ECOLOGY AND THE TROPICAL RAINFOREST
THE GLOBAL SITUATION OF
TROPICAL RAINFORESTS
• Pearce, Fred. Deep Jungle. New York: Eden Project
Books. 2005.
• Vandermerr, John, and Ivette Perfecto. Breakfast
of Diversity: The Political Ecology of Rain Forest
Destruction. Oakland: Food First Books, 2005.
• Forsyth, Adrian, and Kenneth Miyata. Tropical
Nature. New York: Scribner, 1987.
• Kricher, John. A Neotropical Companion: An
Introduction to the Animals, Plants, and Ecosystems
of the New World Tropics. 2nd ed. Princeton, NJ:
Princeton University Press, 1997.
• Caulfield, Catherine. In the Rainforest: Report from
a Strange, Beautiful, Imperiled World. Chicago:
University of Chicago Press, 1986.
• Carson, Walter H., ed. The Global Ecology Handbook.
Boston: Beacon Press, 1990.
• Gradwohl, Judith, and Russell Greenberg. Saving the
Tropical Forests. Washington, DC: Island Press, 1988.
• Head, Suzanne and Robert Heinzman, eds. Lessons of
the Rainforest. San Francisco: Sierra Club, 1990.
PROJECT SOCIAL MEDIA
DEFORESTATION AND SUSTAINABLE
FOREST MANAGEMENT
• www.eyeontherainforest.org
• FB: Eye On The Rainforest
• Wadsworth, H. Frank. Forest Production for Tropical
America. USDA Forest Service, 1997.
• Jenkins, B. Michael, and Emily T. Smith. The Business
of Sustainable Forestry. Chicago: Island Press, 1999.
• Anderson, Anthony B., ed. Alternatives to Deforestation.
New York: Columbia University Press, 1988.
• Myers, Norman.The Primary Source: Tropical Forests
and Our Future. New York: W.W. Norton, 1992.
EARTHWATCH SOCIAL MEDIA
Get to know Earthwatch better at:
• FACEBOOK: facebook.com/Earthwatch
• YOUTUBE: youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute
• TWITTER: twitter.com/earthwatch_org
PUERTO RICO
• Balletto, Barbara. Insight Guide: Puerto Rico. 3rd ed.
London: Apa, 2000.
• Marino, John. Puerto Rico: Off the Beaten Path. 2nd ed.
Guilford, CT: Globe Pequot, 2002.
• Peffer, Randall. Lonely Planet: Puerto Rico. Victoria,
Australia: Lonely Planet, 1999.
• Pitzer, Kurt and Tara Stevens. Adventure Guide to Puerto
Rico. 4th ed. New York: Hunter, 2001.
18
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
AROUND-THE-CLOCK SUPPORT
EARTHWATCH’S 24-HOUR EMERGENCY HOTLINE
Call Earthwatch’s 24-hour on-call duty officer in the U.S.:
+1 (978) 461.0081
+1 (800) 776.0188 (toll-free for calls placed from within the U.S.)
After business hours, leave a message with our living 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
member will respond to your call within one hour.
TRAVEL ASSISTANCE PROVIDER: HEALIX INTERNATIONAL
+44.20.3667.8991 (collect calls and reverse charges accepted)
U.S. TOLL FREE: +1.877.759.3917
U.K. FREE PHONE: 0.800.19.5180
E-MAIL: earthwatch@healix.com
You may contact Healix International at any time. They can assist in the event of a medical
or evacuation emergency or for routine medical and travel advice, such as advice on visas
and vaccine requirements.
FOR VOLUNTEERS BOOKED THROUGH THE EARTHWATCH AUSTRALIA OFFICE:
Earthwatch Australia 24-Hour Emergency Helpline
+61.0.3.8508.5537
19
Earthwatch U.S.
114 Western Ave.
Boston, MA 02134
United States
info@earthwatch.org
earthwatch.org
Phone: 1-978-461-0081
Toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188
Fax: 1-978-461-2332
Earthwatch Europe
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
info@earthwatch.org.uk
earthwatch.org
earth@earthwatch.org.au
earthwatch.org
info@earthwatch.jp
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