Ecology Project International

Greatest Hits from Motion-Activated Cameras

2010-09-02T08:40:00.000-07:00

Students that participate in our Yellowstone Wildlife Ecology course assist the Forest Service with the data collection at several locations throughout the Gallatin National Forest. Motion-activated cameras have been pointed at bear hair snares scented with anise oil in order to gain insight into the regional bear population. Here are some of the greatest hits from the cameras that our students have checked over the past few years:

How to stay involved in conservation

2010-08-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

So…you’ve been on an EPI trip, did conservation, and learned how you can make a difference. Now what?

EPI wants to help you continue to be an active conservation leader. That’s why we started the Alumni Awards, to give you cash to carry out a project that makes a difference.

The first place Conservation Leader award is $500, the Explorer award is $250, and the Rising Star award is $100.

Applications are due September 30, 2010.

Find out more

Students in the Field!

2010-07-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

Four school groups -two from Montana- have made it out to the field this season to work with the Nature Conservancy and the U.S. Forest Service on our summer research programs for high school students in Yellowstone. All of our groups have come back with amazing stories, experiences and Yellowstone wildlife sightings. Two more programs to go this summer!

Contact us today to get involved in one of our courses in wildlife conservation during the 2011 season!

EPI is hiring Yellowstone Wildlife Ecology Program Instructors and Interns!

2010-03-11T09:47:00.000-08:00

Ecology Project International is currently seeking instructors and interns to teach 7 to 9 day field ecology courses to high school students in Montana, USA. Our programs introduce students to real-world scientific study, raise cultural and ecological awareness, and promote international conservation efforts. Each summer, EPI offers residential ecology courses to U.S. and international student groups from June through August in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Students camp in the Gallatin National Forest while working with the US Forest Service to collect data for various wildlife research projects. During the course, students also spend a few days in the Centennial Valley collecting data for the US Fish and Wildlife Service and working on restoration service projects with The Nature Conservancy. Additionally, they explore Yellowstone National Park and go whitewater rafting. See complete job descriptions here. To apply please send a cover letter, resume, and an EPI instructor or intern application to info@ecologyproject.org by March 29th, 2010.

Green building: Eco-friendly businesses come together under 1 roof

2010-02-01T12:09:00.000-08:00

A century after its construction, the muscular building at the end of South Fourth Street East contains a new grab-bag of tenants intent on distributing their green ideas the other direction. Led by an educational outreach business called Ecology Project International, the latest incarnation of the Swift Building wants to touch the world from Missoula.

"So many nonprofit (businesses) are trying to make the world a better place," said EPI co-founder Julie Osborn. "The more we work together, the faster we'll get there."

Read the full article in the Missoulian.

EPI published in nature center journal!

2010-01-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

We are members of the Association of Nature Center Administrators (ANCA), an organization that promotes and supports best leadership and management practices for the nature and environmental learning center profession.

Check out their latest journal edition and scroll to page six to read about EPI’s campus in La Paz and recent accomplishments: http://www.ecologyproject.org/files/2009d_fall_directions.pdf

Our campus facility in La Paz, Baja California Sur was established in 2006 as part of our dedication to our local students and the communities where they live. The campus contains a wealth of resources for our participants, staff, partners, and community members including a fin whale skeleton, an outdoor ‘palapa’ classroom, a resource library, two kitchens, plus dormitories and beds for up to 30 visitors.

Visit our Picasa website to see pictures of the EPI campus, and if you have been here before, you just might see someone you know!
http://picasaweb.google.com/epimexico/FestivalDeEcologiaDeIslas2009#

How can a dream + action can save the world’s sea turtles?

2010-01-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

Watch a video with Scott Pankratz, speaking about how he was inspired to start EPI and how others can pursue their passion and help the world.

To see the video, visit: http://talkingpurpose.com/ecology-project

Students to Travel to Study, Save Endangered Turtles

2009-12-21T15:10:00.000-08:00

BY MOLLY MORRIS — DECEMBER 20, 2009

Students under Gloria Zakers' tutelage at Montessori School & International Academy venture near and far – from the local mangrove lagoons and ancient forests to the United Nations programs in New York – to watching spectacular humpback whales toss about off Baja California.

It is Zakers' aim to give the youngsters a taste of the world, from political debates on the floor of the UN to exploring marine life in the deep blue waters of the Sea of Cortez.

This year they are set on a journey to visit Costa Rica's Pacuare Nature Reserve, a protected leatherback turtle preserve with four miles of beach and a 2,000-acre lowland tropical forest.. The students will collect data from nesting sea turtles, working with local scientists to help one of the world's most critically endangered species.

Read full story

Spring Break in the Galapagos Islands

2009-12-18T14:31:00.001-08:00

Want to travel somewhere out of the ordinary for Spring Break?

Ecology Project International is accepting applications for the Galapagos Islands Ecology Program during Spring Break. Dates: March 27- April 7, 2010.

Apply online today!
www.ecologyproject.org

For more information contact: Haley Hanson
Phone: 406.721.8784
Email: haley@ecologyproject.org

Sea turtle sacrifices? Indonesia says no way - CNBC

2009-12-07T10:06:00.000-08:00

Sea turtle sacrifices? Indonesia says no way - CNBC

Vote for Ecology Project International on Facebook

2009-12-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

Chase Community Giving is donating $5,000,000 to charities around the USA and EPI may be one of those organizations! Facebook users are voting for the recipients!

Important Dates:
The first round of voting ends December 11th.
Chase with announce winners on December 15th- the top 100 organizations will each be awarded $25,000.
Final voting continues from January 15-22, 2010 and the 1 million and $100,000 award winners will be announced February 1st.

Simply click this link and vote for EPI! Share this opportunity with your facebook friends!

Open Enrollment Courses Available in Costa Rica, Mexico and Galapagos

2009-11-20T13:14:00.000-08:00

EPI has a few spaces left on select courses for students interested in joining a pre-established group. If you are out-going, confident, and ready for the learning adventure of a lifetime, contact our office today for more information about the following courses:

Baja Whale Ecology Program:
March 27 – April 4, 2010

Costa Rica Sea Turtle Ecology Program:
June 19 – June 27, 2010
June 25 – July 6, 2010
July 6 – July 17, 2010

Galapagos Islands Ecology Program:
April 8 – April 19, 2010

Call our office: 406.721.8784 or write Joshua Klaus (josh@ecologyproject.org) for more information about how to get involved in our work.

Now is the best time to plan your learning adventure with EPI. Sign-up today on-line!

Student Describes his Experience with Yellowstone Wildlife Ecology Program

2009-09-24T09:11:00.000-07:00

Big Sky teacher who showed 'Story of Stuff' earns EcoDareDevil Award

2009-09-15T15:29:00.000-07:00

By Michael Moore of the Missoulian
September 12, 2009

By the time the dust settled on the so-called "Story of Stuff" debate, Big Sky High School teacher Kathleen Kennedy wasn't sure she wanted to teach any more.

But as the teaching community, University of Montana professors and much of Missoula rallied to her defense, Kennedy found herself revitalized and ready again for the classroom.

"I realized that there's nothing short of our future at stake, and I knew I had a role to play in that," she said Friday.

Her performance in that role has now earned her a national honor from an environmental group that has fashioned its award after another well-known Montanan, Evel Knievel.

It's called the EcoDareDevil Award, and Kennedy will receive it next Friday in Butte, Knievel's hometown, in a ceremony at Montana Tech. That's World Water Monitoring Day, which makes sense given that the award is bestowed by a group called Ocean Revolution.

"I just see winning the award as another way to talk about the importance of us paying attention to what's going on in the world," Kennedy said. "That's what motivates me, the chance to inspire people to not be complacent about the issues we're facing as a society."

Learn more...

EPI WON THE CONDE NAST WORLD TRAVELER CHALLENGE!

2009-09-02T09:08:00.000-07:00

Thanks to your overwhelming support and persistence, EPI is one of four winners through Changemakers and Conde Nast World Traveler Challenge. As a winner, EPI will be featured in the Reader's Choice issue of the Conde Nast Traveler magazine in November.

To read EPI's entry and view the other winners, you may visit Changemaker's website at:

http://www.changemakers.com/en-us/node/52669/winners

THANK YOU

By being featured in this magazine, we will be able to reach many more people - from all around the world - and we could not have done it without your support!

This win is not just exciting because of the opportunity to further extend our mission to inspire conservation leaders, but is proof that a group of motivated people can truly make change and impact the world. Keep up the good work!

Time is running out to enter EPI's photo/poetry contest!

2009-09-01T14:11:00.000-07:00

ENTER EPI'S FIRST ANNUAL "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" PHOTO AND POETRY CONTEST!

Photo contest:
Students who have participated in an EPI program are eligible to enter the "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" photo contest. Photo submissions are to convey how your experience impacted your life, changed your perspective on the environment and conservation, or how you connected with youth from abroad.

Rules:
Photos may be black/white or color
One photo submission per student - but are eligible to submit a poetry entry
Photos must be 8" x 10"
Photo entry must be accompanied by entry form (found below)
All entries must be sent to EPI by 4 PM, Friday, October 9th

Poetry contest:
Students who have participated in an EPI program are eligible to enter the "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" poetry contest. Poems may be in any style or form, but should convey how your experience impacted your life, changed your perspective on the environment and conservation, or how you connected with youth from abroad.

Rules:
Must not exceed 1 page (8 ½" x 11") with 1" border
Only one poetry submission per student - but are eligible to submit a photo entry
If not printed, must be in legible/artistic handwriting
EPI prefers that entries are written/printed on recycled paper
Poetry entry must be accompanied by entry form (found below)
All entries must be sent to EPI by 4 PM, Friday, October 9th

Three winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd places) will be chosen from the photo contest and poetry contest by a panel of professional judges. First place will have their photo/poem professionally framed, and displayed in the Swift building for one year, have their entries posted on the EPI website, printed in our spring newsletter, and receive a free EPI t-shirt. Second place winners will receive a gift certificate, entries posted on website, and a free EPI t-shirt. Third place winners will receive a free EPI t-shirt and entry posted on website. WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT EPI'S MOVING-IN FIESTA, STARTING AT 12 PM, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!

All entries must be accompanied by the following information:

NAME, TITLE OF ENTRY, AGE, SCHOOL

Entries may be turned in directly to EPI office in Swift building or sent to our mailing address:

Mailing address: Office address:
Ecology Project International Swift building
P.O. Box 9192 315 South 4th Street East
Missoula, MT 59807 Missoula, MT 59801

Questions? Please contact Kelsey at (406) 721-8784 or kelsey@ecologyproject.org

EPI launches new Alumni Award

2009-09-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

Attention all past EPI participants who are U.S. residents: read on to learn how to apply for our new award to help continue your education, training, or embark on an important field project…

2010 EPI Alumni Award for Conservation Leadership
As part of EPI’s vision of creating an ecologically literate society in which youth are empowered to take an active role in conservation, we have created the “EPI Alumni Award for Conservation Leadership.” Three awards are available for exceptional alumni who want to continue to make a positive difference in the world.

The goal of this award is to inspire young people to continue to educate themselves and/or work on critical conservation issues. Prizes will be awarded to those whose proposal best demonstrates the potential to positively affect an important conservation issue of the candidate’s choice. The award could be used to implement an independent project or to fund participation in an already existing program in a conservation-related field. Special consideration will be given to projects with cross-cultural components; however, this is not a requirement of the award.

There are three award levels. The Conservation Leader will be awarded $500; the Explorer will earn $250 and the Rising Star will be given $100.

To apply, you must submit the following: A cover letter, a completed Scholarship Application, your most recent school transcripts, and three letters of recommendation from academic, work, or personal contacts who can attest to your potential for success in your chosen project.

All applications must be postmarked on or before October 31, 2009. We cannot accept incomplete or late applications.

Please submit application materials to Andrea Stephens at Ecology Project International Box 9192 Missoula, MT 59807. Or for more information contact Andrea at 406.721.8784 or andrea@ecologyproject.org

Award recipients will be notified by March 1, 2009 and all scholarship funds must be spent by September 1, 2010.

Ecology Project International facilitates local Montana exchange

2009-08-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

By Bozeman Chronicle Staff

A group of high school students from Costa Rica along with Montana teens will be working with scientists on conservation projects in Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding ecosystem this month.

The program, run by the U.S. Forest Service Gardiner District through Missoula-based Ecology Project International, will give students a chance to work in the field with biologists and researchers.

EPI links scientists and students in ecologically fragile environments around the world, with the goal of helping young people understand the ecological ties between animals, plants, landscapes and people, according to Kelsey Stamm, EPI’s grants and outreach coordinator. This is the first time EPI has brought students from Latin America to Yellowstone.

“For Costa Rica students, this is the first time they have been able to travel abroad and discover animals and plants very different from those in their tropical rainforests,” Stamm wrote in a prepared statement. “Most of these students come from rural towns and have limited chances to travel, due to lack of financial means.

“This is also a rare opportunity to learn outside the classroom. Most students (in Costa Rica) learn entirely from copying information from a board, during a teacher’s lecture, or directly from a textbook,” Stamm wrote.

They’ll be joined by students from Gardiner and Cooke City.

“Montana students realize that their backyard is actually pretty unique, and by learning more about the ecology of the area and seeing how their international peers are excited by it, become connected to the land and animals in a way they never have before,” Stamm wrote. “This motivates them to consider their impacts where they live.”

Out in the field, the students’ days will be filled with projects that include monitoring bears and wolves, measuring aspen and whitebark pine trees and building and repairing wolverine traps, according to a prepared statement from EPI. Students will also pitch in at the Sun Ranch Institute in the Madison Valley, removing fence to restore migration corridors for elk and other wildlife.

For more information, visit www.ecologyproject.org.

Help EPI Win Conde Nast Competition!

2009-07-27T10:55:00.000-07:00

EPI ENTERS CONDE NAST WORLD TRAVELER CHALLENGE!

It is the time for competitions, and EPI is working hard to gear up for next season. We have entered another competition, through Changemakers and Conde Nast Traveler magazine.

Similar to the previous competition, our entry is dependent upon your support. This time, you can vote for our entry and the winner will be featured in Conde Nast Traveler magazine, as well as gaining exposure though Changemakers. This publicity will greatly aid us in increasing awareness, garnering support, and furthering conservation education.
How to Vote

Voting is open until August 12th. To vote for EPI's entry, "Saving Biodiversity through Travel," please follow these steps:
Log in to Changemakers site - http://www.changemakers.com/
If you have not registered with Changemakers, to vote you must click the "sign in" link in the upper right of the page, then click the red "new user" button
After receiving your user name and password, you can then log in to the site and proceed to vote for EPI's entry
Visit our entry - http://www.changemakers.com/en-us/node/53108

Click the blue "vote for entry" in the "Take Action" section
Thank you for supporting us in this important competition! Every vote and comment our entry receives is a big step towards winning! We greatly appreciate your help, and thank you for your collaboration in conservation! Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.

Warmly,

Kelsey Stamm

Grants and Outreach Coordinator
kelsey@ecologyproject.org
(406) 721-8784

Enter EPI's 1st Annual "Becoming the Change You Wish to See" Photo and Poetry Contest!

2009-07-14T14:30:00.001-07:00

Dear EPI Alumni:

ENTER EPI'S FIRST ANNUAL "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" PHOTO AND POETRY CONTEST!

Photo contest:
Students who have participated in an EPI program are eligible to enter the "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" photo contest. Photo submissions are to convey how your experience impacted your life, changed your perspective on the environment and conservation, or how you connected with youth from abroad.

Rules:
Photos may be black/white or color
One photo submission per student - but are eligible to submit a poetry entry
Photos must be 8" x 10"
Photo entry must be accompanied by entry form (found below)
All entries must be sent to EPI by 4 PM, Friday, October 9th

Poetry contest:
Students who have participated in an EPI program are eligible to enter the "Becoming the Change You Wish to See!" poetry contest. Poems may be in any style or form, but should convey how your experience impacted your life, changed your perspective on the environment and conservation, or how you connected with youth from abroad.

Rules:
Must not exceed 1 page (8 ½" x 11") with 1" border
Only one poetry submission per student - but are eligible to submit a photo entry
If not printed, must be in legible/artistic handwriting
EPI prefers that entries are written/printed on recycled paper
Poetry entry must be accompanied by entry form (found below)
All entries must be sent to EPI by 4 PM, Friday, October 9th

Three winners (1st, 2nd, 3rd places) will be chosen from the photo contest and poetry contest by a panel of professional judges. First place will have their photo/poem professionally framed, and displayed in the Swift building for one year, have their entries posted on the EPI website, printed in our spring newsletter, and receive a free EPI t-shirt. Second place winners will receive a gift certificate, entries posted on website, and a free EPI t-shirt. Third place winners will receive a free EPI t-shirt and entry posted on website.WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED AT EPI'S MOVING-IN FIESTA, STARTING AT 12 PM, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17TH. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!

All entries must be accompanied by the following information:

NAME, TITLE OF ENTRY, AGE, SCHOOL

Entries may be turned in directly to EPI office in Swift building or sent to our mailing address:

Mailing address: Office address:
Ecology Project International Swift building
P.O. Box 9192 315 South 4th Street East
Missoula, MT 59807 Missoula, MT 59801

Questions? Please contact Kelsey at (406) 721-8784 or kelsey@ecologyproject.org

Littleton High School Students Travel to the Galapagos Islands!

2009-06-02T11:12:00.000-07:00

A student group from Littleton High School in Massachusetts will be embarking on a 14 day field ecology program in the Galapagos islands. Although Littleton High School Spanish teacher Margaret Price has led five international student trips- this will be her first field ecology program with Ecology Project International. She has traveled extensively, including living/studying in Spain for half a year and traveling all around Europe. In addition, she studied in Costa Rica for two consecutive summers and lived/worked in Argentina as a Fulbright Scholar.

Price writes, "I absolutely love taking students abroad - it is such an amazing experience for them and after every trip the students are so thankful for the opportunity. This trip to the Galapagos for me is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Going to the islands has been a life long dream of mine and what better way to experience all that the Galapagos has to offer but to work there!"

During their time in the field, Ecology Project International students serve as research volunteers. As part of the Galápagos tortoise monitoring project, every student conceives, develops, analyses, and presents a field-based research project using data they collect – such as tortoise carapace length, width, and weight. Students also participate in activities about ecology, island biogeography, evolution, art, and journaling. They also spend time snorkeling in the Galápagos Marine Reserve where they observe countless fish and other beautiful sea life.

Scientists in Galápagos use Ecology Project International students' work to improve conservation efforts for the archipelago. As EPI students collect data on giant tortoises, help remove invasive plants, and restore critical habitat needed by native and endemic species, they help ensure future survival of the giant tortoise in these remote and beautiful islands.

We are so pleased to have the support of teachers like Margaret and thrilled that EPI's programs allow teachers to re-connect with students and share their passion for culture and conservation with a new generation. Bien Viaje!

Opportunities in Yellowstone for Educators

2009-05-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Yellowstone Educators Course: Wildlife Sampling Techniques
EPI is offering its first Yellowstone Ecology course just for educators! Join other educators and professional wildlife biologists in a grizzly bear research project in theheart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem while studying remote wildlife sampling techniques.

Click here to learn more!

Bioneers Internship Opportunity

2009-04-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

Bioneers Youth Program Internship
Location: San Francisco, CA
Start & End Date: July through October

Organizational Description
Bioneers is a forum for connecting the environment, health, social justice, and spirit within a broad progressive framework. Since 1990, Bioneers has helped define the leading edge of breakthrough solutions to the global ecological and social collapse imperiling our world. You'll connect with countless visionary leaders and engaged citizens -- who are all making a very real difference to create a future environment of hope.

Internship Description
Bioneers Youth Program is seeking an intern from a high-school, college, or graduate program to assist the Youth & Conference Project Manager in creating and developing the Youth Program at the Annual Bioneers Conference as well as coordinating youth participation in the scholarship program. At the end of the internship period, the intern will have had significant experience in event coordination and relationship building across diverse organizations. There is a lot of room for creativity and opportunities to learn about the work that Bioneers promotes. To learn more about Bioneers visit http://www.bioneers.org.

Compensation:
The ideal candidate will be dually enrolled in an academic institution that will grant the intern academic credit for this internship. In addition, there is a $2000 stipend awarded to the intern and an additional $500 awarded at the completion of the conference weekend to go toward travel (if non-local) or as a bonus if candidate is local.

To apply, please email or fax resume and cover letter by May 15th to:
Liz Cunningham
liz@bioneers.org
or fax to: 415.643-8638

Sentinel Students travel to Costa Rica

2009-03-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

From the very beginning, Sentinel High School's EPI Costa Rica trip has been student-driven. Originally initiated by three students, the group has grown to a full 17 students and two chaperones, all thanks to the efforts made by the students to recruit others at our school. And with the help of EPI, we also have the privilege to include two incredible students from Polson, MT. Since last fall our group has also been meeting twice a month to plan group fundraisers which included soliciting businesses for donations, organizing a hike-a-thon, and running a raffle drawing using donated items from businesses in Missoula and surrounding areas. We have not determined the grand total amount of funds raised thus far, but the students have more than earned this trip. And their efforts will be well worth it.

The excitement in the group is impossible to put into words. There is constant talk of what Costa Rica will be like. What is the food like? How hot will it be? Are the sea turtles really as big as we have read? In surveying the students, it was clear that most were excited for the overall "adventure" aspect of the trip. There will no doubt be more than enough adventure to fulfill the desires of our inquistive, vivacious young travelers on their first trip to Costa Rica.

Data collected by Ecology Project International students are utilized by scientists to improve conservation efforts for Leatherback sea turtles. Every night of the Leatherback nesting season, Ecology Project International students walk the beach in search of sea turtles and their nests, to study population trends and protect the nests from tides, poachers, and other threats.

We at the EPI world headquarters wish the Sentinel group a great trip. Buen Viaje!

Wasatch Academy Students Traveling to Costa Rica

2009-03-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

"Education does not end in the classroom, but it is an excellent place to start…"

Students from Wasatch Academy, a residential school located in Utah, will soon be travelling to Costa Rica to take part in Ecology Project International's Sea Turtle Ecology Program. This program represents different things to each of our students. Here is what a handful of the Wasatch students had to say:

Of all the things I'm excited for about the EPI course I am most interested in the Biology aspect of it. I have always enjoyed things related to Biology and when I graduate from High School I wish to pursue Biology as one of my majors. Therefore, because EPI is focused on Biology, saving Sea turtles, and preserving the rainforest I am very excited for all the things I will be able to do when I am in Costa Rica.
- Grete Slaugh~ Salt Lake City, Utah

I am very excited to go on this trip to Costa Rica as I have never been to a South American country. Also that I am learning Spanish at school, I have been wanting to be able to go to a Spanish-speaking country and learn it. Now the chance has come and I think I am very lucky. I hope I learn a lot from this trip and help the sea turtles.-Sophia Joo- Korea

I was born in Hawaii (Oahu) and raised there for 11 years, after which I moved to Vermont for the next 3. I'm interested in the course because I wish to be a marine biologist when I grow up, so this should be a rewarding experience in that field. I'm excited to be traveling again, I find it's the best way to learn.
-Haley~Vermont

I am very excited to be able to go on the Costa Rica trip with Dr.Wackford. I believe that this trip will be a great experince because it will help me learn more about Bio in my coming years. I also want to thank you for letting me be able to join this trip and be able to study sea turtles. I have always wanted to travel out of the US and study at the same time, but because of this course I will be able to do so. I'm looking forward to coming out at night and looking for turtles! This will be once in a life time chance for me to be able to do this so again I'd like to say thank you! And I think it is great that you are offering the EPI course to our school and that who will all be going on this trip will greatly enjoy it! I know I really will enjoy this trip alot and it'll be a fun experince also.
-Ana Kenzy~Spring City, Utah

Since first hearing of this great opportunity, I have been hugely excited in the trip and project. I anticipate being able to see this new locale and get hands on experience in its environment and helping to preserve, something this beautiful needs to be around for as long as it can, and I'm very excited to help and experience it for myself.-Zachary Jones~ Marine County, California

Data collected by Ecology Project International students are utilized by scientists to improve conservation efforts for Leatherback sea turtles. During the Leatherback nesting season, EPI students walk the beach in search of sea turtles and their nests, to study population trends and protect the nests from tides, poachers, and other threats.

Que ten buen viajes!

Welcome Back Virgin Islands Montessori!

2009-03-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

Positive Attitudes are not endangered…
By Mrs. Gloria Zakers, EPI chaperone
“My hands were wet, my feet were cold, but once we saw that first humpback whale, it was all worth it.” Kelsey Morrison, 8th grade student, International Academy

My students don’t have much to say. They are too busy gasping with excitement after we witnessed the “jump of the year” by a humpback whale within about 50 feet of our small research vessel in the Sea of Cortez. The jump, exposing the entire body of a seasonal resident humpback that will be identified by the pattern on its tail fluke, was deemed the best of the year by one of the leading marine mammal biologists in La Paz, Mexico. And just to assure you that their speechless gasps were justified, imagine yourself being on a small 45 foot boat with a creature large enough to fit 13elephants inside of it, launching out of the water just a small distance away. Its grace and power are so intertwined that one is left with only awe and humility. This experience, provided by the EPI Baja Whale Ecology Program, is one that will stay with all of us for a lifetime.

I am thankful for a great group of students who are truly interested in the future of imperiled species on this planet. Gathering around a sign that struck a loud chord at the Serpentarium in La Paz, Mexico, the students and myself felt a sense of satisfaction and importance as we read together the words…
“Extiction is forever, but endangered means there’s still time.”

Special Sea Turtle Ecology Program for UM Students

2009-03-02T10:45:00.000-08:00

Special Sea Turtle Ecology Program for UM Students Ecology Project International is offering a Costa Rica Sea Turtle Biology Program to UM students, June 7 – June 15, 2009. While on-course, students will monitor a population of critically endangered leatherback sea turtles on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica in collaboration with sea turtle biologist in Costa Rica plus members of local Costa Rican communities. This is an amazing opportunity to assist with authentic research and be active in international conservation efforts. The 9-day course includes over 40 hours coursework and instruction with 15 hours of field research. While at the sea turtle nesting area, every student develops and presents a field-based research project. The course will take place June 7 – June 15. Can you think of a better way to end the semester? Visit this link for more information: http://www.ecologyproject.org. For course dates and details, please contact Joshua Klaus at the EPI office at 406.721.8784 or josh@ecologyproject.org. Approval for academic credit through the UM/Continuing Education Department is pending as of 2/28/09.

Earth Day T-shirt Design Contest

2009-02-05T09:26:00.000-08:00

Teachers: Have your students get involved for Earth Day 2009 by having your students enter the Earth Day 2009 T-Shirt Design Contest sponsored by the National Environmental Science Education Center, Inc. There are four divisions, K-3, 4-6, 7-9, and 10-12. National winners in each division will have their art design appear on t-shirts and win a $50 US Savings Bond (Series EE). The N.E.S.E.C., Inc. Earth Day 2009 T-Shirt Design Contest will begin
accepting submissions on Dec. 1, 2008. Entries must be received no later
than midnight of March 13, 2009. Check out www.nesecenter.com for all of the contest details.

2009-02-04T14:05:00.000-08:00

Cultural Opportunity for College Students

2009-01-28T10:49:00.000-08:00

The following opportunity is being offered by the Trade Commission of the Embassy of Spain, an official institution and part of the worldwide network of Commercial Offices from Spain.

At present we are launching the “Study in Spain” campaign, directed to enhance the image of our country as a destination for American students, as well as to promote partnerships between Spanish and American education institutions.

As part of this agenda, we have developed a new program called “Spanish Student Ambassadors“ through which we are recruiting students who might be interested in becoming the main Spanish representative for their universities and colleges. We are looking for students who have a deep knowledge of Spain and its culture and who can offer the following profile:

• Fluent in Spanish
• Proactive personality
• Motivated and committed for 1 or 2 years
• With social skills
• Interested in the people and culture of Spain

We consider that this program would be very beneficial for students as they will develop valuable skills such as leadership, event organization, responsibility, teamwork, and, personal skills. At the end of their collaboration, the Embassy of Spain will issue an official diploma to each Student Ambassador which will grant added value to their student life and their résumés.

We have already started working with many students all across the United States, their experiences are very positive and the program is developing very fast.

Should you have a student or students who fit this profile, or should you want to know more about our program, please let us know so we can arrange a more detailed presentation about our Spanish Student Ambassador program. Please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail (erarroyo@mcx.es) or call us (305) 446-4387, ext. 27, and we will send you a complete package with detailed information.

Student Grant Deadlines Extended

2009-01-27T10:43:00.000-08:00

Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award - Deadline extended to February 13, 2009!
The Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award is awarded annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation to an outstanding teacher who has successfully integrated environmental education into his or her daily education programs. The award is given to a 5th-12th grade educator who can serve as an inspiration and model for others. A $5,000 cash award is provided for the recipient to continue their work in environmental education. Do you know a teacher who stands out among the rest? If so, please nominate him/her for the 2009 Richard C. Bartlett Award. The nomination deadline has just been extended to February 13, 2009! To learn more or submit your nomination visit http://www.neefusa.org/bartlettaward.htm

Planet Connect Grant Program - Deadline extended to February 1, 2009 Do your students have an innovative solution to protect the environment? Planet Connect can help make it happen! Planet Connect is a new online network for High School students to learn about the environment while exploring green college and career options. We're looking for students' creative ideas to fix an environmental problem at their school or in their community. Planet Connect is offering grant winners $1,000 awards to support their ideas and provide them with local environmental internships. Encourage your students to make a difference by applying for a grant today. Visit www.planet-connect.org for a grant application and more information. Application deadline is February 1, 2009. This is a program of the National Environmental Education Foundation

Opportunities for Students!

2009-01-27T09:11:00.000-08:00

Individual Student Enrollment Now Available!
It is not too late for individuals to sign-up to participate in one of our incredible field ecology courses. Please share these opportunities with your friends, family members and students, and help them discover the wonders of field science and foreign cultures. Our courses give students authentic experience in field science, international conservation, and intercultural exchange. And they are super FUN!

Available Courses:

Baja island Ecology Program:
April 4 - April 12, 2009

Costa Rica Sea Turtle Ecology Program:
April 3 - April 12, 2009
June 13 - June 24, 2009
June 29 - July 7, 2009

Galapagos Islands Ecology Program:
June 17 - June 27, 2009

Click here to access a downloadable, printable brochure you can hang in your classroom or distribute to students:

Applications available on-line

Contact the EPI office with any questions and sign-up today!

International Academy students travel to Mexico

2009-01-20T13:17:00.000-08:00

"Education for Life"

Congratulations!
Montessori School & International Academy from the U.S. Virgin Islands will launch the Ecology Project International U.S. season as they leave for the Sea of Cortez on January 24th. Buen Viaje!

"We cannot protect what we do not understand."
These students are all a part of a specialized course entitled "endangered species". They are studying endangered species in depth for 2 weeks before leaving for the EPI trip and will culminate in the studying of endangered whales in Baja, Mexico. The group has been focusing on many different endangered species both locally and globally. It was decided as a group that the above quote should be their motto, because education makes it so much more possible to protect imperiled species on our planet. Locally, the students have created brochures to be distributed to the community educating them about many of the endangered species right in their own back yards.

A word from the Chaperone:
"Living in the Virgin Islands, my students are used to seeing a rich and diverse environment everyday. However, there is a huge beautiful world out there that many of them have never experienced. In order for them to truly appreciate and understand the place they call home, they must be able to make a connection with nature in other parts of the world. This EPI trip will be the foundation of education and growth needed to create a group of responsible, caring young people who have a true investment in their environment and the future of their planet."

Participants of the EPI Whale Ecology Program spend five days and four nights searching the sea for whales aboard our research vessel. Students learn how to identify varied species - blue, fin, and humpback whales and have the opportunity to witness pods of swimming dolphins. Students contribute to the study and protection of these magnificent creatures. Check back in early February to learn more about the students' experiences on course.

Grant Opportunities for College Students & Teachers

2009-01-06T11:06:00.000-08:00

Grant Opportunities for College Students & Teachers
Whether you're studying to join the field of education or are a veteran teacher- here's a list of 101 scholarships designed just to help teachers pay their way through college and get some help afterwards.
click here for 101 Grants for Teachers:

A Day Without plastic!

2008-12-18T08:43:00.000-08:00

Make a statement in your own way by bringing your OWN bag(s) or just using your POCKETS!
Visit: http://www.adaywithoutplastic.org/
Pass it on

Planet Connect Grants for Students

2008-12-16T08:23:00.001-08:00

Do you have an innovative solution to protect the environment?
Planet Connect can help make it happen!
Planet Connect is a new online network for High School students to learn about the environment plus green college and career options.
We’re looking for your creative ideas to fix an environmental problem at your school or in your community.
Planet Connect is offering grant winners $1,000 awards with $500 to support your idea and $500 for an environmental internship in your community.

View their website to apply:

http://www.planet-connect.org/

2008-12-11T14:38:00.000-08:00

Between the months of August and October, green sea turtles arrive at nesting beaches along the northern part of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast and every year the turtles are hunted for their highly valued oil and meat. The presence of volunteers and research assistants is crucial to discourage poachers from roaming the coast in search of the turtles.

In 2008, Pacuare Reserve, one of Ecology Project International’s Costa Rican partners, began recruiting locals to work as research assistants for the green turtle season. The reserve contacted former participants of EPI’s Sea Turtle Ecology Program, which focuses on Leatherback sea turtles. The selected local high school graduates were offered the opportunity to collaborate with the reserve during the green sea turtle nesting season.

One of these students, Karol Kano from Siquirres City, had participated with EPI in 2006 and 2007. She is a peaceful and smiley girl, who loves to ride her bicycle, walk and listen to reggae and rock music. Her city is well know for its citizens’ habit of consuming and selling eggs in small cantinas, restaurants and even on the street. The consumption of sea turtles has been part of their culture and habit for more than a century. Karol knew of this reality long before visiting the reserve and remained curious about seeing the turtles and eggs. Immediately upon viewing the announcement she and a friend applied for the position. Within days she was being interviewed and was selected for her genuine interest in working and caring for the turtles.

This interest was first ignited during her trips with EPI which she describes as beautiful, striking and exciting. She was fascinated to learn about the turtle’s life cycle, where they come from, where they go and the monumental endeavor coming ashore to nest represents. She was responsible for teaching her friends and family about the difficulty the turtles face in surviving not only the natural threats but also the man-made challenges. It was no surprise to see her entire family; parents, siblings, cousins, uncles and even her grandma on the dock waving goodbye and thrilled to see her leaving for meaningful work away from home for the first time.

It wasn’t easy for an 18 year old girl to be away from home for 3 months in the reserve. As the youngest assistant, the others helped her learn and achieve complete success as a research assistant. In her time at the reserve, patrolling each night, she worked with several green turtles and was blessed with a handful hawksbills, which are more difficult to see. She also helped to relocate nests which were dangerously close to the tide line as well as excavate nests to study the contents and help release turtles who were unable to reach the sea.

She is now home but her short stay in the reserve was meaningful and an opportunity for great personal growth. We look forward to seeing her again next season when she will return as a research assistant for the full season.

2008-12-10T09:45:00.000-08:00

Thanks to all who helped create our tortuguita holiday ornaments. Takes a village to sculpt, mold, paint and mail an Adopt a Turtle Campaign as well! Adopt one today!

2008-12-01T09:22:00.000-08:00

2009 Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award
The Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award is awarded annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation to an outstanding educator who has successfully integrated environmental education into his or her daily education programs. The award is given to a 5th-12th grade educator who can serve as an inspiration and model for others. A $5,000 cash award is provided for the recipient to continue his or her work in environmental education. Do you know a teacher who stands out among the rest? If so, please nominate him or her for the 2009 Richard C. Bartlett Award. Nominations are due by January 31, 2009.

To learn more or submit a nomination, visit http://neefusa.org/bartlettaward.htm.

2008-11-24T11:04:00.001-08:00

Planet Connect High School Challenge Grants - Application deadline January 20, 2009

Do you know a high school student with an innovative solution to protect the environment?Planet Connect can help make it happen! The National Environmental Education Foundation's Planet Connect Program, developed in partnership with The Weather Channel, is a new online network for High School students to learn about the environment plus green college and career options. Planet Connect is looking for creative ideas to fix local environmental problems and will award 25 students aged 14-19 $1000 each to support their ideas and provide them with local environmental internships. Visit www.Planet-Connect.com for more information or to apply.

Geography Awareness Week

2008-11-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

Did you know November 17-21 is Geography Awareness Week?

Whether you have kids of your own, or, are just a big kid yourself, promoting geography education is a great way to learn about World Heritage sites, which span the globe and include some of the most unique and important cultural, natural and historical places on earth. Learning more about these sites enables people young and old to appreciate how landscapes are created, the diverse cultures of people living around the globe, and how our actions can impact our environment and fellow global citizens.
To help celebrate this year’s Geography Awareness Week, test your geography knowledge using the Friends of World Heritage TravelPod
The game is a fun, informative, (and addictive) way to test your knowledge and brush up on those lesser-known World Heritage sites. Play now and find out your World Heritage IQ and challenge your friends to beat your score.

2008-11-06T13:15:00.000-08:00

Special News for EPI teachers!
Partners in Science Grant Program
This program provides $15,000 for high school science teachers to conduct cutting-edge research , guided by a research mentor, for two summers. Administered by the M.J. Murdock Charitable trust, the grant program enables teachers and academic scientists to collaborate in the advancement of science, with the goal that both will grow professionally in the process. Teachers from Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington are eligible. Apply by December 1 at www.murdock-trust.org/how-to-apply/formal-program-grants-science.asp