VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS

...needed for an applied ecological study of rainforest regeneration in Ecuador’s coastal Reserva Ecológica Mache-Chindul. (3-4) Positions in our research team are open from early Sep 2004 through Apr 2005. This 70,000-hectare reserve is the largest remaining tract of Chocó forest in Ecuador and possesses a truly spectacular range of diversity in both flora and fauna, many of which are endemic. We will experimentally determine the ecological factors that pose the greatest obstacles to the transition from secondary to primary forest in order to modify current reforestation practices to work synergistically with natural regeneration processes. The ultimate goal of this work is to provide a framework for the slated implementation of wildlife corridors among the 3 remaining large tracts of Chocó forest through reforestation, thus increasing the long-term ecological sustainability of this unique area. Fieldwork will include seed trap collections in primary and secondary forest, seed identification, seed additions to experimental plots, maintenance of seed traps and experimental plots, seed predator experiments, creation of seed and seedling vouchers, and vegetation transects. We will live at a very remote field station (Bilsa Biological Station; a 13 km hike through knee-deep mud from the last road to civilization) and share "rustic" accommodations (bunk beds, mosquito nets, no electricity, and one heck of a beautiful shower spot) with other researchers and international reforestation volunteers. Applicants should be in excellent physical condition as the terrain is muddy and steep and our days will be long. We will work 20 consecutive days each month with 10-day breaks for mental sanity. Prior field experience in the tropics, knowledge of plant identification, and Spanish skills are a plus, while the ability to work as a team player, lunatic determination, and a sense of humor are fundamental. I will cover field station expenses and provide necessary field equipment, but volunteers must pay for their own transportation to and from Quito plus living expenses while not working (~10 days/month). I ask for a minimum commitment of 4 months from field assistants, however, opportunities to work for shorter periods may also be possible for assistants that can pay their own station fees ($10/day). This is an ideal opportunity for individuals that want to make a tangible contribution to conservation while gaining tropical field experience. To apply, please send a brief letter of interest, CV, and the contact information for 3 references to AMY ROGERS (EM: arogers@ucla.edu).