Dolphin Volunteer, Internships Hawaii

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Volunteer

Junior Naturalist Program

"Never doubt that a small group of thought, committed citizens can change the world; indeed it's the only thing that ever has" Margaret Mead

Interested in Whale and Dolphins Research Camps? Take our Camp survey to help our design process.

Become a Member of the WDF Pod or join WDF in "Consumer Powered Conservation" through our WDF Dolphin Depot, where you can get hip, organic, and great for the planet gear.

Our Current Field Research Team

Are you a Microsoft Excel and Access wiz? WDF is looking for you to run stats! If you're really a hotshot, this can be a paid venture.

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dolphin travel

Semester Breaks at Sea

Ready to make some waves? Are you a self starter, able to work both independently and as a team? Marine research is difficult and challenging work, and not for everyone! Those wishing to participate in three day and two night cruises must be in good physical health, free of back and leg injuries, as field hours can be long - though satisfying. This is an experience that delivers a unique opportunity for development of field research skills, cutural travel, and awareness of Hawaii's marine wildlife.

"Malama Kekahi i Kekahi" - Take Care of Each Other - The ocean has a story to tell, and you explore and discover what that story is. Desired partici[ant traits are being motivated, confident, trustworthy, and have an interest in wildlife and conservation.

Participation in opportunistic field research includes:

Assisting marine biologists by photographing dolphin dorsal fins to aid with individual identifications recording environmental data at the dock, hourly, and in the vicinity of dolphins recording of all sighting information including location name, latitude and longitude, total number of animals, number of calves, initial behavior, field times and direct dolphin observation time determining and recording of latitude and longitude by using a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver and keeping track of all relevant times recording of group activity patterns during behavioral surveys assisting in unloading and cleaning of all equipment, as well as transcribing and analyzing data, reviewing dorsal fin photos and data entry at the field station
Photo Id's and cataloging
Plankton tows and water quality tests
Identification and recording of reef fish and turtles, similar to Wild Side Coral Reef'ers outings, and identify threats to their Hawaiian habitats
Retrieval and recording of marine debris
Contributing to all aspects of the research program, including the upkeep of materials, house or boat-keeping, cooking, cleaning, etc.
Become knowledgeable in and apply Hawaiian cultural, traditional and historical conservation methods from "mauka to maiki."
Use Polynesian voyaging (navigate with stars, waves, and wind) and compare to today's high-tech electrronic technology

Benefits: On the way to survey Turtle Reef!

Participants will gain valuable skills throughout the program and will meet potential role models who work in the fields conservation biology. In addition they will gain career experience, improve interpersonal skills, gain knowledge in conservation, and develop professional skills necessary for advancement in conservation and other fields. Participant help to preserve some of the most precious natural resources in Hawai‘i.

E ao kakou! Let's get educated and help to preserve Hawai`i. Tackling marine conservation must be done not only by top-down governmental policy changes, but also by bottom-up education and awareness.

Highlights:

Guided Snorkeling With Turtles, Dolphins and Tropical Reef Fish
Whale Encounters
Marine Biologist crew, Hands-on Active Participation
Dolphin Encounters and Seasonal Whale Watching
Expert Educated Crew of Marine Wildlife Biologists
Cruise to other islands, weather permitting
Jr. Natural Certificate upon completion!
Give Back! A portion of all proceeds are donated to the Wild Dolphin Foundation

Important Tour Information

6 passengers max, at least four total to "set sail"
Check-in time 7am - return 3:30 pm
Ages 9+ preferred
RATES AND DATES - 2011
- $1195 per person
- 2011
  - Sept. 19 - 21, 2011
  - Oct. 3 - 5, 2011
  - Oct. 8 - 10 2 spots left
  - Nov. 11-13
  - Nov 24-26 SOLD OUT

2012
- Dec. 16 - 18
- Dec. 28 - 30

Included:

• Meals
• Lodging onboard
• Snorkel Gear and flotation devices

Not included:

• Gratuities
• Transportation to the harbor

Meeting Point for Overnight Cruises:

Kewalo Basin Harbor
1125 Ala Moana Blvd.
Honolulu, Hawaii

Individuals interested in becoming volunteers should apply for the program by writing a letter of interest. Please include a brief sketch of personal goals (what you hope to gain), special skills, experiences, and interests you think would assist us.

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