Introducing Two Exciting Earthwatch Expeditions in Kenya and Costa Rica
By Amelia Cavanaugh
Earthwatch expeditions offer a unique opportunity to actively contribute to preserving our planet. Participating in expeditions allows you to join leading scientists on critical research and conservation projects worldwide.
These experiences take you to extraordinary locations, where you immerse yourself in the natural world and gain unparalleled insight into the life of a scientist. Earthwatch expeditions are not just adventures; they can be transformational experiences for you and the environment.
These experiences take you to extraordinary locations, where you immerse yourself in the natural world and gain unparalleled insight into the life of a scientist. Earthwatch expeditions are not just adventures; they can be transformational experiences for you and the environment.
We are thrilled to debut two new expeditions starting in 2025: Rainforest Revival in Costa Rica and Restoring Habitats in Kenya's Greater Maasai Mara. These expeditions provide up-close encounters with nature and wildlife as you collect data and support local restoration efforts. Learn more about our new expeditions and hear from the scientists leading Earthwatch teams below.
Rainforest Revival in Costa Rica
Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula is renowned as the "most biologically intense place on Earth." The area shelters at least half of the species found in Costa Rica. While it boasts an unparalleled biodiversity, the Osa Peninsula has felt the impact of deforestation and habitat degradation. The old-growth forest in the Osa Peninsula and the connecting Amistosa corridor are particularly at risk, facing encroachment from large-scale agriculture and forest clearance.
By joining this expedition, participants can directly impact efforts to address climate change. Volunteers will monitor wildlife, vegetation, and soil and contribute to research essential for restoring ecosystem services. These ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, minimizing erosion, and enhancing water quality, are vital for local communities.
Rainforest Revival in Costa Rica offers a unique opportunity to work alongside dedicated researchers led by Dr. Carolina Soto-Navarro. Dr. Soto-Navarro is a conservation scientist with over 15 years of experience who focuses on the Global South. She is dedicated to developing initiatives prioritizing biodiversity and aiming to achieve significant outcomes for both nature and humanity.
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Restoring Habitats in Kenya’s Greater Maasai Mara
The Greater Maasai Mara Ecosystem in Kenya faces ecological decline, dwindling populations of large mammals, and interruptions in wildlife migrations. As a result, there is an urgent need for more restoration and revitalization efforts in the area. Restoring Habitats in Kenya's Greater Maasai Mara offers volunteers the opportunity to help scientists restore habitats in the area, enhancing wildlife preservation and breathing new life into the iconic savanna.
Dr. Antonio Uzal, the lead scientist, highlights this expedition's importance, stating, "This expedition is part of vital efforts to restore habitats in Kenya's Maasai Mara. Decades of ecological decline threaten wildlife and disrupt migrations. Your hands-on work with scientists will directly aid research on restoring the savanna, monitor its degradation, and bolster conservation efforts across East Africa."
Over the past twenty years, Dr. Uzal's research has focused on understanding ecological processes influenced by human activities. His future vision is to address evidence-based management, policy, and regulations in hunting, animal welfare, ecosystem restoration, and human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
Guided by expert scientists like Dr. Uzal, you can actively engage in hands-on restoration activities during this immersive expedition. These activities include removing invasive species, facilitating experimental research, and collecting wildlife data.
Join the Movement:
Your Adventure Awaits in Costa Rica and Kenya
These expeditions offer more than trips into nature; they are transformative experiences that empower participants to actively contribute to global conservation. Whether you're a seasoned Earthwatch participant, an adventurous traveler, or someone passionate about protecting our planet's natural heritage, there's a place for you in Earthwatch's community. By participating in these expeditions, you can contribute to the vital work of scientists and conservationists, amplifying their efforts and making a meaningful impact on preserving our environment.
Join us in shaping the next chapter of global conservation in Costa Rica and Kenya. Contact one of our Expedition Advisors to be part of a future expedition team!
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