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Caribbean Location
What do we do?
One of the main objectives of the Caribbean Centre is conservation awareness on managing aquatic ecosystems at fishermen’s communities. The main species our work focuses on is the manatee Trichechus manatus manatus and the otter Lontra longicaudis. We determine frequencies of habitat use, where manatees and otter have been identified, in order to determinate sensitive areas for these species.
The Omacha Foundation also has been reseraching coastal dolphins Tursiops truncatus and Sotalia guianensis, to evaluate population distribution, use of habitat and behavioral matters in the Gulf. On the other hand by low Sinú area, located in Cordoba, we developed a Managing Plan for otter and manatee’s conservation, in order to achieve the management strategies for preserving these species at this location.
©Fundación Omacha
Activities
Biological and ecological research program
You can support researchers in field by collecting data and biological samples besides getting skills as a result of investigating wild species. Eventually you will be trained on fauna first aids and using GPS.
• Manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus) you could work by tracking and following-up rehabilitated and released individuals.
• Coastal dolphins (Tursiops truncatus y Sotalia guianensis), you can get involved in establishing use of habitats, distribuition and researching behavioral matters.
• Neotropical otter (Lontra longicaudis), you could participate by working on environmental enrichment for rehabilitation of seized individuals.
Productive projects and social support program
This program evaluates interactions between human communities, focal species and the environment. It includes preserving local traditions and ecological practices that benefit the natural environment. On the other hand this program supports sustainable projects in order to reduce negative impact on endangered species and promote economic alternatives in local communities. You can help by supporting the work with local communities such as fishermen, ranchers, farmers and indigenous on issues related with improving production of handicrafts, eco-tourism and fishing agreements. Determine routes at the species habitats such as rivers, tubes, marshes, swamps, sea and nearby zones of tourist interest.
Spreading and environmental education Program
This program runs all year long, it develops projects and campaigns as well as awareness and educational actions joined to the previous conservation and sustainable programs. Help in educational activities like workshops, programs and campaigns for children, young men (women) and adults. You also could be part of designing and executing environmental education programs.
Accomodation
At this location you could be staying in shared apartments or private rooms at local family houses, in a comfortable, clean and nice environment. Another option for staying is at the CVS station (Corporación Valle del Sinu) located to 2 km away from Lorica.
The food varies from typical food (coconut rice, fish, sea food), fast food (pizza, hamburgers), up to volunteer’s preferred food (vegetarian fall in sweeten or fats options are available). The laundry is not included but could get that service in town).
You can find public phones and Internet service in town.
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