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MARTINS: THE AZORES WORKSHOPS 13
The choice of Vila Franca do Campo
for the base camp of each workshop is
somehow connected with the beautiful
islet which is the ex-libris of this noble old
capital of the island of São Miguel.
Science is obviously the primary objective
of these meetings. However, besides the
knowledge acquired due to the research
therein developed, there is a clear interest
in fostering culture and education within
the community. We are sure that the better
knowledge about the Ilhéu de Vila
Franca do Campo, in particular, resulting
from the workshops has contributed to
the strengthening of its stature as a nature
reserve, cared for and respected by the
thousands of users that visit it every summer.
The prospect of an aquarium in
Vila Franca do Campo has turned the
attention of the local community towards
one of its most precious resources - the
sea.
Finally, and, as a silent highlight of the
workshop meetings, past, present and
future, the generous offer of the founder
of the workshop concept and of the Swire
Institute of Marine Science, Professor
Brian Morton, to help in the setting up of
a Marine Biology Station in the facilities
where this 3 rd workshop took place, will
continue to bring to Vila Franca do
Campo, a nucleus of resident researchers
and academic guests from around the
world who will undoubtedly act as a catalyst
for science and education in the
community which has so generously
hosted these pioneering adventures.
It is the belief of this author, his local
colleagues and the groups of overseas scientists
who have contributed, over the
years, to the greater understanding of the
unique marine life of the Azores in general
and of the waters of Vila Franca do
Campo in particular, that there is no better
place where a permanent, international,
marine research facility would not just
flourish but would act as the archipelago’s
flagship promoting marine conservation
and technological advancement.
For the benefit of all.