Sea Watch Wales

2008 Marine Research and Education Volunteer Opportunities

The Sea Watch Foundation is a registered marine environmental research charity that aims to achieve better conservation of whales and dolphins in the seas around Britain and Ireland, by involving the public in scientific monitoring of populations and the threats they face, and by the regular production of material to educate, inform and lobby for better environmental protection. At Sea Watch Wales, we are dedicated to raising awareness, knowledge and conservation of the marine wildlife of West Wales through research and education. Our work is funded by the Countryside Council for Wales, with support from Defra and the Heritage Lottery Fund, and we work closely with the local management authority, Ceredigion County Council.

Research

The purpose of our research is to monitor the marine mammal populations inhabiting Cardigan Bay, particularly its two Special Areas of Conservation, so as to gain information to aid the conservation and long-term well being of these animals and the local marine environment. This is achieved by conducting various research projects including:

• Estimating the abundance and distribution of bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and grey seals within the Cardigan Bay SAC using distance sampling and opportunistic boat surveys
• Maintaining and updating a catalogue of photographically identified bottlenose dolphins in West Wales in order to study their abundance, social structure, movements and life histories.
• Acoustic monitoring of bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises in the Cardigan Bay SAC using automated click detectors (TPODs)
• Setting up a library of underwater sounds in Welsh waters in order to develop bio-acoustic research in the area.

In addition, line-transect abundance surveys for common dolphins are conducted monthly in the Celtic Deep west of Pembrokeshire. In summer 2005, these revealed sizeable numbers of minke whales and six fin whales, as well as orca, Risso's dolphins, and harbour porpoises.

Education

We further aim to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the local marine wildlife and the habitats supporting them, to encourage respect and conservation of the area and its wildlife for future generations. This is carried out through a school education programme, public talks and road shows, and the production and dissemination of educational and interpretational materials. We also run training courses for the public in cetacean identification and survey methods.

Volunteers

Volunteers are invited to assist with all the various projects listed above, including: land- and boat-based marine mammal surveys and photo-identification studies, database entry, awareness raising initiatives, school education programme, developing education and interpretation materials and assisting with and participating in training courses and public talks.

Volunteers are required from mid April until mid October 2008, with a minimum commitment of 4 weeks. Preference will be given to those who can stay for longer periods, including the whole 6-month period. Volunteers would be based in New Quay, West Wales, and it is possible to obtain part time paid work in the area if required. We will try and help to find accommodation for all volunteers (approx. 50GBP per week). However, volunteers are responsible for their own travel, accommodation and living expenses.

Main tasks involved include:

Research volunteers:

·        Conduct land based surveys of dolphins and porpoises

·        Conduct boat-based line transect surveys onboard our research vessel

·        Collect observational data on marine mammal sightings and weather conditions on board local marine wildlife watching boats

·        Data entry for land and boat based sightings

·        Interacting with the public on the pier about the marine wildlife in the area and the work being conducted by Sea Watch

·        Assist with photo-identification work and analysis

·        Assist with acoustic monitoring, using T-PODS and hydrophones

Education volunteers:

·        Conduct land based surveys, including recording sightings information and updating sightings records and reports.

·        Interact with the public on the pier about the marine wildlife in the area and the work being conducted

·        Assist with school visits, talks and awareness raising events

·        Assist with the research and production of education and interpretational materials

·        The opportunity to participate in boat based fieldwork

 Important skills/qualifications:

·         A background in marine biology/environmental science etc is desirable

·         A background in environmental education and experience working with children is desirable (Education volunteers)

·         A strong interest and knowledge of British cetaceans would be an advantage

·         Prior experience in boat based survey work would be useful

·         An ability to get on well with others in a small group

·         Good verbal and written communication skills

·         Experience in interacting with the public

·         Public speaking and IT skills

·         An ability to work in a conscientious and reliable manner

·         Willingness to work long hours outdoors in often very changeable Welsh weather

·         Driving Licence and preferably a car owner (Education volunteers)

All volunteers will be trained in cetacean observation and identification, in line-transect survey protocols and photo-identification of seals and bottlenose dolphins.

For more information on our research and the volunteer programme, please visit our website www.seawatchfoundation.org.uk