Climate and Landscape Change in Borneo's Rainforest 2013

Electricity
Diesel generators supply electricity at both sites. The
generator at the Danum Valley Field Centre usually
operates between 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 midnight. The
generator at Malua Field Camp operates from 7:00 a.m.
until 4:00 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. until 12:00 midnight.
The electricity supply is at 230 to 240 volts through
standard U.K. three-pin sockets. Participants should
be aware that on occasion the power supply has failed.
Should this occur, staff will ensure that participants are
safe, and torches may be required for a short period of
time.
Internet and Communications
Internet access is not readily available at the facilities.
Internet connection is, however, available at the Borneo
Rainforest Lodge during the recreational day should you
have a wireless-enabled device (phone, etc.). Please
be aware that the climate is not favorable for electronic
equipment (e.g., laptops, cameras), which should stay in
Ziploc bags when not in use. Or you may wish to consider
bringing a dry box for cameras, etc. You may also find
silica gel sachets useful.
Facilities and Amenities
Amenities include a washing machine, seating areas, and
separate dining facilities. There are small tourist shops at
the Danum Valley Field Centre reception and the Borneo
Rainforest Lodge where souvenirs may be purchased.
At Malua Field Camp there is a small, family-run shop at
where drinks and snacks can be bought.
Distance to Field Site
The research sites are located 0.5 to two kilometers (0.3
to 1.2 miles) from the Sabah Biodiversity Experiment
Campsite at Malua. The furthest sites at Malua will
normally be accessed by vehicle where possible, with
journey times varying according to road conditions. Treks
through the forest to access research sites will normally
be less than 2 kilometers (1.2 miles), though some sites
may involve slightly longer treks, and it should be noted
that terrain can be steep and slippery. Transport to the
research sites will be by four-wheel-drive pickup trucks.
Transport will be arranged by the Earthwatch scientists or
research assistants.
Food
Food will be provided at Danum Valley and the Sabah
Biodiversity Experiment camp at Malua in their cafeterias.
Participants will not be required to help with food
preparation, or cooking, or washing up. Earthwatch
scientists will usually share meals with participants.
Following are examples of the foods you might expect in
the field. Variety depends on availability, and while this list
provides a general idea of food types, please be flexible.
Breakfast: Self-service buffet of fried or scrambled eggs,
noodles, toasted bread, and cereals.
Lunch: Packed lunches when in the field; fried rice,
noodles, or sandwiches.
Dinner: Simple Malaysian-style home cooking, usually
consisting of steamed rice and vegetables, chicken, beef,
and/or fish dishes. Fresh fruit for dessert.
Snacks/Other: Fried bananas, other local snacks, and
biscuits (cookies) are available at the field center for
morning coffee and afternoon tea. While in the field,
participants should bring their own snacks, which can be
bought in Kota Kinabalu or Lahad Datu on arrival. There
are also small shops at Danum and Malua where the team
will be based.
Beverages: Tea and coffee are always available at the field
centers.
Water: Drinking water at the field centers is boiled and
safe for drinking.
Special Dietary Requirements
Please alert Earthwatch to any special dietary
requirements (e.g., vegetarian or vegan diets, diabetes,
lactose intolerance, nut or other serious food allergies) as
soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on
your volunteer forms. Accommodating special diets is not
guaranteed and can be very difficult due to availability of
food, location of field sites, and other local conditions.
Climate and Landscape Change in Borneo’s Rainforest 2013
15