Marine Conservation Program

Summary:

The Madagascar Research and Conservation Institute (MRCI) offers a Marine Conservation Program that collaborates with oceanographic organizations to gather scientific data. The program includes activities such as reef surveys, coral bleaching assessments, turtle monitoring, and beach clean management. Volunteers receive comprehensive scuba diving training and species identification training.

The program is located on the island of Nosy Komba in Northwest Madagascar, known for its tranquility and lack of roads or cars. The research center, Turtle Cove, overlooks a coral reef and offers access to beautiful beaches and the Lokobe Forest Reserve. Volunteers can join the program for a minimum of 4 weeks to a maximum of 12 weeks, and the program can accommodate up to 24 divers and 54 volunteers overall.

English is the primary language spoken, but knowledge of Malagasy and French is also helpful. Volunteers are expected to have health insurance and may need vaccinations depending on their travel path. Essential items to bring include sun protection, mosquito repellent, and rehydration supplements.

Requirements:

– Volunteers must have their own health insurance.
– Recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, tetanus, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies.
– Sunscreen, after sun lotion, mosquito repellent, rehydration supplements, and anti-malarial medications are recommended.

Qualifications:

– Volunteers of all ages are welcome, from 18-year-olds to retirees.
– English language proficiency is required.
– Knowledge of Malagasy and French is helpful but not mandatory.

Date and Location:

– The program is located on the island of Nosy Komba in Northwest Madagascar.
– The research center, Turtle Cove, overlooks a coral reef and is situated between a tropical forest and a pristine beach.
– The program is ongoing and volunteers can join for a minimum of 4 weeks to a maximum of 12 weeks.

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