Embarking on an internship abroad is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable practical skills and course credit in one’s field of study while experiencing full immersion in a novel culture.
Record marine biodiversity
To aid decision making and implement protected areas co-management plans, co-partners in Belize require long-term environmental monitoring to be in place to meet both national and international protocols, and for the establishment of more detailed research projects that can provide vital baseline data.
Through marine SCUBA and snorkel surveys you will survey fish, benthic and commercially important invertebrate species using a number of common methodologies currently used in Belize plus taking part in simple community level assessments of these environments. Diving under the supervision of a lead scuba diver, you will become confident and comfortable underwater. Your results will determine the sheer biodiversity of these waters and help formulate long term, sustainable management plans to protect this sensational caye.
Other activities include surveying mangroves, a vital buffer against storm surges caused by cyclones, and an important part of the coastal ecosystem, opportunistic sightings of manateesand cetaceans, beach clean ups, forest restoration work and monthly surveys of conch and lobster.
Belizean culture & communities
Working alongside the Belizean people will give you an insight into their colourful and laidback culture. Community work may include environmental education in local schools to explain Frontier's work, and interviewing local communities on their awareness and knowledge of the local marine reserves, particularly with regards to boundaries, zones and rules and the levels of involvement of local stakeholders in decision-making.
Product Code: FT007
Belize Marine Conservation and Diving Course Credit Internship
- We will tailor your internship to fulfill university/college requirements for independent study or course credit for your field of study
- 24/7 supervision and mentoring
- Direct liaison between with your mentor and university or college tutor
- Your mentor can also provide a College reference at the end of your internship
- Help to monitor & conserve coral reefs and observe rare African marine wildlife
- Work on data from some of the world's best dive sites
- Extend your experience of tropical marine and coastal zone conservation field work
- There is also the opportunity to gain a qualification in habitat conservation