Although Cambodia might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of volunteering on a Marine Conservation project, our pioneering conservation and research activities are at the forefront of protecting and researching Cambodia’s diverse marine environment. Located on the tropical Gulf of Thailand Cambodia has pristine uninhabited islands and over 400km of coastline. The project is the first of its kind in Cambodia and supplies the Cambodian Fisheries administration with much needed data to help in their marine conservation efforts. The Conservation Project base is situated on the beautiful and peaceful island of Koh Rong Samleom and is a two hour boat ride from the lively coastal town of Sihanoukville. The island is home to a small fishing village and has stunning beaches with a background of lush primary jungle. Most of Cambodia’s best dive sites are close by, including the rare seahorse breeding grounds. We used to see as many as twenty seahorses in one dive, however due to illegal fishing the population is now much lower. The protection of the seahorses was the reason the whole project began and we hope to see an increase in numbers in the future as we expand the protected areas and continue research into their habitats and behaviour.

In addition to our regular surveys we conduct specific video and photographic seahorse surveys, on some of these dives we have been lucky enough to watch their beautiful courting rituals and even seen them giving birth. The last few years in Cambodia have seen a significant growth in tourism and development in the coastal towns and it is vital to protect the marine environment threatened by these changes. The relevant departments involved have limited resources with which to conduct scientific research and protect the marine environment. As a result, further decline of Cambodia's marine resources is expected. Your help is needed to protect one of the last undeveloped marine areas in SE Asia! One problem we are facing is from intensive destructive fishing techniques. These unsustainable fishing methods are encroaching on coastal reefs and breeding habitats. This is threatening the biodiversity and health of many species. The Conservation Project in Cambodia aims to address these issues and offer comprehensive protection for biodiversity and establish new protected sites. Our work in Cambodia also includes the local communities, as training and education for local people is an important step towards sustainability and the preservation of Cambodia’s marine environment.

Major Job Responsibilities:

• Volunteers will be conducting seahorse surveys including video graphic and photographic behaviour studies, coral & fish biodiversity surveys and habitat & mapping surveys to name a few
• Volunteers will work in close cooperation with the local village on the island and volunteers can get involved in important community work which includes environmental awareness activities with local children such as beach clean-ups and education classes
• Volunteers might sometimes be asked by the villagers to help with practical tasks like clearing the school grounds, building a new house or helping with the vegetable plots

Cost Includes:

• Food and accommodation
• Transfers to and from the airport
• Full travel insurance
• Medical insurance
• Support and 24 hour back-up from both our local and UK staff

Cost Excludes:

• Passport/Visa (if required from your country)
• Return transportation
• Any personal expenses

Skills & Qualification: Volunteers do not need previous work experience to take part in this project, although anyone who does have any relevant skills will be very welcome and will be able to take on a more specialized role. All volunteers should, however, be active, and be prepared for working in the specified project fulfilling the responsibilities.

Food &Accommodation: Volunteers will be acccommodated in a basic bungalow or dormitory on the island shared with other conservation volunteers. The accommodation has electricity after dark and there is a Western toilet with a bucket and a scoop to flush it and a bucket shower. All volunteers eat together in the large multi-functional communal area. The area consists of a large kitchen and has plenty of space to study or to enjoy the view and relax in a hammock. The surrounding garden has a toilet building and an equipment room. At night staff and volunteers sit round the fire together to enjoy the many stars, giving you the ultimate island experience.

Application Process: You can apply through http://www.projects-abroad.org.za

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so there is no firm deadline for applications. Some countries and projects require at least three months to process an application, arrange for visas, and advise you properly on how to prepare. Other countries can be processed in as little as three weeks. Whenever you are thinking of traveling, we encourage you to apply as early as possible. Having more time to prepare makes it easier for you to fundraise, and for us to advise you on preparations. It also makes more options available for tailoring a program to your individual interests and preferences.