Alaskan Fur Seals - Earthwatch Institute

2009
NORTH AMERICA
Earthwatch.
2009 EXPEDITION BRIEFING
Alaskan Fur Seals
Dr. Stephen J. Insley Karin Holser Bruce W. Robson Ryan Kingsbery
University of California, Santa Cruz St. George Island Institute Community and Ecology Resources Alaska Pacific University
University of Victoria
Pribilof Islands Stewardship Program

Our Mission
Earthwatch engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education
to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable
environment.
We believe that achieving a sustainable future requires objective scientific data
from the field—and that the scientific process must engage the general public if it
is to change the world. To that end, we involve people from all walks of life
directly in global field research.
We invite you to join us.
Offices:
Earthwatch Institute
3 Clock Tower Place
Suite 100
P.O. Box 75
Maynard, MA 01754 U.S.A.
info@earthwatch.org
www.earthwatch.org
Toll-free: +1 (800) 776-0188
Phone: +1 (978) 461-0081
Fax: +1 (978) 461-2332
Earthwatch (Europe)
Mayfield House
256 Banbury Road
Oxford
OX2 7DE
UNITED KINGDOM
info@earthwatch.org.uk
www.earthwatch.org/europe
Phone: +44 (0) 1865-318-831
Fax: +44 (0) 1865-311-383
Earthwatch (Australia)
126 Bank Street
South Melbourne
VIC 3205
AUSTRALIA
earth@earthwatch.org
www.earthwatch.org/australia
Phone: +61 (0) 3-9682-6828
Fax: +61 (0) 3-9686-3652
Earthwatch (Japan)
Sanbancho TY Plaza 5F
Sanbancho 24-25, Chiyoda-ku,
Tokyo 102-0075 JAPAN
info@earthwatch.jp
www.earthwatch.jp
Phone: +81-(0)3-3511-3360
Fax: +81-(0)3-3511-3364
www.earthwatch.org
-- An international nonprofit organization founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1971--

Dear Earthwatcher,
Welcome to Earthwatch! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to important hands-on environmental
science and conservation. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change for our
world while having a life-changing experience. Each year we send thousands of people just like you into the field
to understand and help an array of species, habitats, and cultures on approximately 85 research projects in more
than 40 countries. These projects focus on: Climate Change, Cultural Heritage, Ecosystem Services, and Oceans.
We place the highest priority on the health and safety of all those involved in our activities anywhere in the
world. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, careful risk management and
diligent planning means all participants can have safe, educational, and inspirational Earthwatch experiences.
Our dedicated Field Management team works around the clock to assess and manage the risks of conducting field
research in a variety of locations and conditions. We’ve been providing safe experiences for more than 35 years,
so you’re in good hands.
To keep Earthwatch teams safe and happy, we require all expedition participants prepare for their experience
by reading this Expedition Briefing and completing a number of volunteer forms, which vary by expedition
and by regional Earthwatch office. Volunteers signing up through the US office can find the forms online at
http://www.earthwatch.org/volforms. Volunteers signing up through Earthwatch offices in the UK, Australia,
or Japan should contact those offices at the information listed below for more information.
It is essential that you carefully read your Expedition Briefing, which includes important logistical
information such as instructions for reaching the project site, what to pack, where your team will stay, what
immunizations you need, how to physically prepare for your expedition, entry requirements for the project
country, and more. Your Briefing also explains the research being conducted on the project, why it’s important,
and what role you’ll play as an Earthwatch volunteer.
If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, contact the appropriate Earthwatch office:
Australia Office Japan Office UK Office US Office
T: +61 (0) 3-9682-6828 T: +81-(0)3-3511-3360 T: +44 (0) 1865-318-831 T: +1 800-776-0188
earth@earthwatch.org info@earthwatch.jp info@earthwatch.org.uk info@earthwatch.org
Well prepared volunteers are better able to enjoy the unique and exciting experiences that an Earthwatch
expedition offers, and are also a greater help to the scientists’ important work. Most expeditions do not require
prior experience. Volunteers who are attentive and open-minded, can work in a team environment, and are eager
to learn will be most successful. Your expedition may have fitness requirements, so please review the Project
Conditions section. Those with photography and film skills are encouraged to share media from the expedition
with Earthwatch.
Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition!
Sincerely,
Anne T. Ogilvie
International Director of Field Management
PS: Upon returning from your expedition, you will receive an email welcoming you back and asking you to fill
out an online Expedition Evaluation. Please take the time to complete this evaluation in order to help us improve
the Earthwatch experience. Your feedback is appreciated!
i

Dear Earthwatch Volunteer,
Welcome to the Alaskan Fur Seals of the Pribilof Islands expedition! I first came to the Pribilof Islands to study the
behavior and ecology of northern fur seals in 1988, making this coming season year number 21 on site. My two
partners on this project, Bruce Robson and Karin Holser, came to the Pribilofs about the same time to work on fur
seal ecology and conservation and environmental education in the community. Our project leader on St. George
Island, Ryan Kingsbery has now been working with Northern fur seals for five seasons and we are truly fortunate
to have his expertise back on the project again during the 2009 season. Although Ryan, Karin, Bruce and I
specialize in different areas, our concern for this very unique place has resulted in our joining forces repeatedly
and strengthening our ties as we face increasing uncertainty about the Pribilof flora and fauna. There is an old
Aleut saying about once having visited the Island of Seals, one will always yearn to return—this has certainly
proven true with us!
The Pribilof Islands are an incredible place, rich in wildlife and history. The value as a research location for fur
seal behavior was immediately clear to me when I first arrived. I have since spent countless hours observing upclose
the private lives of seals. What became additionally clear with time was the delicate balance of survival
taking place by the local plants and animals and the potential impacts humans can cause through actions that
occur far from the island. Over-fishing and marine debris are two such examples of ongoing concern.
One of the most powerful and revealing tools a biologist can use to discern and understand trends in animal
populations is long-term datasets; basic data gathered in a consistent manner over long periods of time.
Unfortunately such datasets are often difficult to fund as they do not produce immediate results and are generally
not very “sexy”! The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has done an exceptional job with the Pribilof
Northern fur seals over many years but there are many things they have not been able to do. One of the primary
goals of our project is to produce solid long-term data on fur seal life history, and use it to detect changes over
time. We expect these data, along with data on fur seal entanglement in marine debris, will complement that
produced by other research organizations and thus play an increasingly important role in fur seal conservation
efforts.
We need and value your participation on this project, which will contribute to a better understanding of northern
fur seal ecology. As a research volunteer you will be trained to conduct scientific research on northern fur seals in
their breeding habitat. This will be both challenging and exciting!
We hope your appetite is whetted and that you’ll join a group of like-minded Earthwatchers to study the fur seals
of Alaska with us. I look forward to meeting and welcoming you soon to one of the most beautiful spots on the
planet – St. George Island, Alaska.
Cheers,
Stephen J. Insley, PhD
Earthwatch Scientist
ii

Alaskan Fur Seals
Table of Contents
GENERAL INFORMATION...................................................................................................................................................1
VOLUNTEER FORMS OVERVIEW .....................................................................................................................................2
THE EXPEDITION...................................................................................................................................................................4
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW............................................................................................................................................................4
2. RESEARCH AREA.................................................................................................................................................................5
3. PROJECT STAFF ...................................................................................................................................................................6
DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD ..................................................................................................................................................8
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS ........................................................................................................................8
5. TEAM ITINERARY ................................................................................................................................................................9
6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS...........................................................................................................................................10
7. ACCOMMODATIONS...........................................................................................................................................................10
8. FOOD.................................................................................................................................................................................11
TRAVEL PLANNING ............................................................................................................................................................12
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE ........................................................................................................................................................12
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS .....................................................................................................................................................16
11. HEALTH INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................................................19
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS ............................................................................................................................................19
13. RECOMMENDED READING...............................................................................................................................................20
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD............................................................................................................................................21
15. COMMUNICATIONS..........................................................................................................................................................22
16. HELPFUL RESOURCES......................................................................................................................................................23
EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
iii

GENERAL INFORMATION
PROJECT TITLE:
EARTHWATCH SCIENTIST(S):
ALASKAN FUR SEALS
Dr. Stephen J. Insley, Researcher, University of
California, Santa Cruz, California; Adjunct Professor,
University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Karin Holser, Director, St. George Island Institute;
Coordinator, Pribilof Islands Stewardship Program
Bruce W. Robson, Co-Director and Researcher, Community
and Ecology Resources
Ryan Kingsbery, MS graduate student at Alaska Pacific
University
RESEARCH SITE:
St. George Island, Pribilof Islands, Alaska
EXPEDITION LENGTH:
10 Days
TEAM SIZE MINIMUM/MAXIMUM:
3/5 volunteers
MINIMUM AGE OF PARTICIPATION: 18 years of age *
*It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate on standard teams if accompanied by a parent or
guardian. Contact Earthwatch for more information and see the Before You Leave section for traveling advice for
minors.
1

VOLUNTEER FORMS OVERVIEW
All Earthwatch expedition participants are required to read and complete a number of volunteer forms. Some of
these forms are used to ensure your safety in the field, to inform Earthwatch and project staff of your current
health and fitness as they pertain to your expedition, to notify Earthwatch and project staff of your travel plans,
etc. These forms must be filled out and returned to Earthwatch AFTER you sign up for an expedition. Other
forms are for your reference and will inform you of certain Earthwatch policies and resources. You do not need to
return these forms. See the letter at the front of this Briefing to learn how to get the forms you need to return;
volunteer forms vary by Earthwatch office.
Some details below apply ONLY to volunteers signing up through the US Earthwatch office.
Volunteer forms are available at http://www.earthwatch.org/volforms. Instructions for completing your forms
are included on this web page. However, you may not need to complete all of the forms listed online. Please see
below for a list of the specific forms required for this expedition.
Note: It is very important that you read and understand both your Expedition Briefing and the volunteer forms
listed below.
Volunteers Forms to be Returned to Earthwatch
Please complete and return the following forms to Earthwatch:
• A: Personal Profile
• B: Health Form
• C: Travel Details Form
• D: Liability Release
How to return your forms: Forms B and D require written signatures and must therefore be printed out and
signed. All other forms may be filled out electronically. You may return your forms to your Earthwatch by mail,
fax (+1 978-461-2332 for US volunteers), or email (forms requiring signatures may be scanned and emailed). If you
mail hard copies of your forms to Earthwatch, please do not staple them together and be sure to keep a copy of
each form for your records. Please see the welcome letter at the start of this briefing for contact information for
all Earthwatch offices.
Deadline for form submission: Your volunteer forms must be completed and returned to Earthwatch no later
than 60 days prior to your expedition.
If you sign up within 60 days of your expedition: If signing up to participate within 60 days of an expedition’s
start date, please complete each form to the best of your ability and send them to Earthwatch immediately. Please
note the date of your doctor’s appointment on Form B: Health Form. You will need to resend Form B: Health
Form after having it completed and signed by your doctor.
2

Other Forms for Your Reference
The forms listed below are for your reference only and do not need to be returned to Earthwatch. However, it is
very important that you read and understand these forms, which are included in the Appendix of your printed
Expedition Briefing.
• Earthwatch Policies and Participants’ Rights and Responsibilities
• Financial Terms and Conditions
The additional form below is also for your reference and benefit and is available online at
http://www.earthwatch.org/volforms.
• Tax Deduction (Earthwatch expeditions, with the exception of Family Teams, are tax-deductible for US
residents only)
Additionally,
• The Medical and Evacuation Insurance FAQs and Insurance Summary Policy (these documents include
important information on both the insurance included in your expedition contribution) can be found at
earthwatch.org/insurance. *
* In addition to the medical and emergency evacuation insurance included in your expedition contribution,
Earthwatch also recommends that participants purchase travel insurance. Optional travel insurance is available
through CSA Travel Protection. See http://www.csatravelprotection.com/?aff=83534816 for more information.
3

THE EXPEDITION
1. PROJECT OVERVIEW
The Bering Sea is one of the most biologically productive ecosystems in the world as well as one of the most
heavily fished. As a result, there is a tremendous amount of interest in monitoring the ecological health of this
area. The Alaskan Fur Seals project is based on the Pribilof Islands, the most centrally located group of islands in
the Bering Sea. Often referred to as the “Galapagos of the North,” the Pribilofs are steeped in a rich history
inextricably linked to northern fur seals. These seals were the main justification for the American purchase of
Alaska from Russia in 1867. Although commercial sealing ended some time ago, one of its positive legacies is a
detailed long-term record of the seal population that continues to this day. The responsibility of local marine
mammal management is now shared by Aleut natives and the National Marine Fisheries Service.
In addition to commercial activity in the Bering Sea, climate change represents a real and immediate danger to the
existing balance of species in the region. Furthermore, invasive species, brought about by both commercial
activity and climate change, represent an additional layer of biological threat. As a result, collection of data from
various disciplines is very important in order to understand and predict future ecological events for the region.
Of immediate concern is the health of marine mammals in the area, which are at the top trophic level. During the
past 30 years sequential population crashes have occurred in harbor seals, then Steller sea lions, followed by sea
otters. Northern fur seals have recently begun to decline at what appears to be an accelerating rate. Ten years ago
roughly 70% of the world population of northern fur seals bred on the Pribilof Islands. Today the seal estimate is
roughly 55% and falling. As with each of the previous marine mammal crashes there are a number of suspected
causes, including lack of food due to competition with fisheries and/or climate change and predation. However,
there is no conclusive evidence pointing to any single factor and it is likely that multiple factors are involved.
What is clear is that despite the tremendous long-term population records of northern fur seals, there are a
number of important gaps in our understanding, including life history, age structure and sources of mortality for
the Pribilof population.
The focus of the Alaskan Fur Seals research project is primarily a long-term observation-based study of northern
fur seals on St. George Island. The project’s goal is to quantify age structure and important behaviors that are
affected by age structure (e.g. parental care) of the population using specific morphological characteristics and
behavioral observations. While observing fur seals, team members will also scan for and record additional
important data such as entangled and marked animals and the presence of other marine mammals, especially
killer whales. Volunteers will also have the opportunity to participate in the Island Sentinel program, which is
organized by locals and conducts year-round observations of the area’s flora and fauna. This will allow you to
interact with locals and experience broader aspects of the island’s ecology. Sentinel activities include conducting
observations and collecting data on Steller sea lions and harbor seals and monitoring vegetation growth in
relation to reindeer activity.
By participating in this project, you will have the opportunity to share an extremely unique experience while
directly contributing to Bering Sea conservation in a meaningful way.
Note: See Alaskan Fur Seals: The Research in the Appendix of this Expedition Briefing for information on the
research objectives, methods, and results to-date of this project.
4

2. RESEARCH AREA
Physical Environment
At 40 square miles, St.
George Island is the
second largest of the
four volcanic Pribilof
Islands in the Bering
Sea. The island is
approximately 780
miles southwest of
Anchorage and 300
miles northwest of
Unalaska, Alaska. St.
Paul Island, where the
majority of the
Pribilovians (primarily
Aleut natives) live and
the main site of
commercial activity (fishing and fish processing), is located 43 miles north of St. George. Otter Island and Walrus
Island, the other two Pribilofs, are uninhabited islets located off of St. Paul.
St. George’s terrain is diverse and includes rocky uplands, rugged hills, broad expanses of tundra and steep cliffs
that drop into the ocean. The shores are lined with low bluffs and high cliffs, with the highest rising over 1,000
feet from the ocean. Boulder beaches and basalt shelves are found below some of these cliffs. From May through
July, Alaska experiences 16-19 hours of daylight each day and nights never get completely dark.
St. George was designated as a research reserve in 1973 with the end of the commercial fur seal harvest. Because
of its isolation, proximity to the continental shelf break, and variety of habitats unique in the central Bering Sea,
St. George supports astonishingly high concentrations of marine mammals, seabirds, fish, and invertebrates. The
Pribilofs are the world’s principle breeding area for both red-legged kittiwakes and northern fur seals. These
islands, particularly St. George, provide a unique opportunity to conduct long-term monitoring of a diverse and
productive marine ecosystem.
Cultural, Social, and Political Environment
The predominant language spoken on St. George is English, while local names and traditions reflect some
Russian influence. Most people on the island are Aleut, also called “Unangan,” and are very friendly and enjoy
sharing their culture with visitors. The main religion of the islanders is Russian Orthodox, and if you intend to
visit the island’s church, be aware that women stand on the left and men on the right, and women are not allowed
in the alter area. Also, if you take photographs inside the church building, a donation must be made to the
church.
The St. George Traditional Council (STGTC) is the federally recognized tribal government of St. George Island.
Organized in 1932, the STGTC represents St. George’s Aleut community in the conservation and co-management
of a diverse ecosystem and the customary and traditional practices of the Aleut people. The Pribilof Islands
Stewardship Program and the STGTC Island Sentinel Program provide an excellent opportunity for integrating
volunteers, community members, and local youth into scientific research on the island.
Because of their year-round presence on the islands, the Aleut communities of St. Paul and St. George play a
critical role in observing and monitoring the ecology and status of the Pribilof region. The Citrus oil spill of 1996
accentuated the need for a community-based program to monitor the ecosystem throughout the year. The Island
5

Sentinel Program was created in 1999 to access the wealth of local knowledge and the environmental monitoring
capability of the local communities. The program was first implemented on St. Paul to monitor fur seal rookeries
and marine mammal sites for disturbance. Shortly afterwards, the program expanded to St. George and now
covers a wide range of environmental and ecological research components.
3. PROJECT STAFF
Earthwatch Scientists
Dr. Stephen Insley is a Researcher and Adjunct Professor at the University of Victoria and a research biologist at
the University of California Santa Cruz. Dr. Insley has conducted numerous research investigations on pinnipeds
(seals and sea lions) and seabirds in a wide variety of field locations including the Bering Sea, the North and
South Pacific and the North Atlantic Oceans. He has conducted research on the Pribilof Islands almost
continuously since 1988, his principal focus being the ecology, behavior, and acoustics of northern fur seals, as
well as anthropogenic (human-caused) impacts on the species. During this period, a considerable amount of
effort has involved community outreach and facilitating local participation in research.
Karin Holser has been the Pribilof Islands Stewardship Program Coordinator since 1997 and Founder/Director,
with the St. George Traditional Council, of the St. George Island Institute since 2005. She has lived on the Pribilof
Islands since 1995. With funding from the National Park Service she is working on developing a communitybased
protocol for ecological monitoring in remote villages throughout the Bering Sea. Through her leadership,
the Stewardship Program has developed a very successful mentorship program for young people on the islands
that will match local youth with visiting scientists. Both Robson and Insley have participated extensively with this
mentorship program. Holser has also provided critical logistical support for numerous visiting researchers as
well as conducted her own biological research projects. She is an avid sea kayaker and has built several kayaks. In
addition to English, she can speak some German. Due to other research commitments, Karin will likely not be in
the field for the 2009 season.
Bruce Robson has been visiting, mentoring youth and conducting research on the Pribilof Islands since 1989 as a
marine wildlife and fisheries biologist. He was a Research Biologist with the National Marine Mammal
Laboratory (NMFS) from 1990 to 2004, after which he founded Community and Ecology Resources where he is
Co-Director and Principle Research Analyst with partner Mandy Merklein. He has conducted research on
northern fur seals, Steller sea lions, harbor seals and ice seals in the Pribilof Islands and surrounding Bering Sea
and Aleutian Islands. He has extensive experience in a variety of field research techniques including satellite
telemetry, population assessment, capturing and handling wildlife as well as database design, GIS, and the
reporting, editing and publication of scientific data.
Ryan Kingsbery is a Master’s candidate at the University of Alaska, Anchorage and has been conducting
research on northern fur seals on St. George Island since 2005. His research with Karin Holser and Bruce Robson
characterizing population level changes in age structure of northern fur seals using non-invasive techniques
formed the core of this project. Ryan’s Master’s research focuses on marine debris and entanglement in northern
fur seals.
6

Other Staff and Visiting Researchers
Additional research and field staff will be chosen prior to the commencement of the Earthwatch program. A local
person will be hired to serve as Facility Manager. This person will make sure the housing is kept clean, will do the
shopping and will cook one main hot meal each day.
A number of scientists will also likely visit the site and interact with the team. Additionally, the researchers are in
discussions with the Tribal Council to organize a regular facility where they can give talks about their work to
volunteers and locals.
Staffing Schedule (Subject to Change)
Staff Member Present Team IV Team V Team VI
Karin Holser
Steve Insley TBD TBD TBD
Bruce Robson TBD TBD TBD
Ryan Kingsbery X X X
Facility Manager X X X
7

DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD
4. VOLUNTEER TRAINING AND ASSIGNMENTS
Training
At the start of the expedition project staff will conduct a short training course on safety in the local environment.
This will include hiking skills (e.g. walking on tundra, boulder fields, near cliffs), survival skills (e.g. dressing in
layers, hypothermia, avoidance of getting lost), communication skills (e.g. VHF radio operation), and emergency
procedures in the event of an accident, including familiarization with the First Aid kit and Emergency Response
Plan.
Beginning on the first day of the expedition, staff will train volunteers to conduct each research task and will
discuss how each task fits into the context of the larger project. Throughout the expedition, staff will regularly
discuss the relevance of individual observations and activities. Often the best time to do this is during the drive to
and from the field site.
Various scientists visiting the island may also give talks on topics such as fur seal ecology, seabird ecology,
seabird diving energetics and foraging ecology. If possible, project staff will organize a venue for such talks,
which would be open to volunteers as well as interested community members.
The Earthwatch Scientist will give the team a more detailed onsite project briefing when you arrive.
Assignments
Staff will train volunteers in established data collection and data entry protocols starting on the first day of the
expedition. Volunteers may participate in the following research assignments:
• Identification of male fur seals, females and pups
• Scoring female-pup behavioral interactions
• Counting all animals in an area
• Identifying and scoring vibrissae (whisker) color
• Scanning and recording opportunistic sightings (e.g. entangled seals, tagged seals, killer whales)
The team will be split into two or three groups. Each group will spend up to four hours each day at the fur seal
rookery conducting observations, and roughly two hours uploading data. Once meals and miscellaneous
activities are finished with, volunteers will spend the rest of the day conducting Island Sentinel activities, scoring
data (on inclement weather days), conducting additional fur seal activities, or enjoying recreational time.
Volunteers should expect to spend up to eight hours on research-related activities per day; there will be some
flexibility as some volunteers may be more affected by the cold weather than others.
To participate successfully in this expedition, volunteers should be open-minded, attentive, able to focus for
extended periods of time, able to take good notes in poor weather, willing to ask questions, and above all, have a
positive attitude.
8

5. TEAM ITINERARY
Day 1:
Day 2:
Day 3:
Days 4-8:
Day 9:
Day 10:
Pick-up at the airport, brief driving tour of the island, proceed to accommodations and get
settled, safety orientation
Training on data collection and data entry, time for feedback and questions
Begin data collection and task rotation, intensive discussion and feedback session at end of
day, introduction to additional/optional activities (e.g. data scoring, Sentinel activities)
Field data collection and additional activities when time, availability, and weather permit
Recreational day (timing of the recreational day will vary depending on weather) (see
Recreational Time below)
Pack up, check gear, depart
Following dinner and discussion, most evenings will be available for recreational activities and down time. There
will also be at least one full recreational day during the expedition, the timing of which will depend on weather
and available activities. Volunteers may choose to go hiking (e.g. to the least auklet colony), explore the area,
watch movies about the island, go kayaking, go out with one of the local fishermen (fishermen might charge a fee,
at the volunteer’s expense, depending where they go), etc.
Volunteers should consult a travel guidebook for information on local attractions. See the ‘Helpful Resources’
Section for suggested guidebooks.
Earthwatch Recreational Time Policy
Earthwatch has a duty of care for our participants from the rendezvous to the end of the expedition. In order to
ensure you are as safe during your recreational time as you are during research time, we have put a number of
measures in place.
• If there is a recreational day during the expedition, the project staff will offer either a planned team activity or
a small choice of recreational activities that have been vetted and comply with Earthwatch standards. You will
also have the option of remaining at the project accommodations to rest. All participants are strongly
encouraged to take part in the group activity, but if you are determined to pursue other options you will be
asked to sign a release before doing so, stating that Earthwatch is not responsible for your welfare.
• When there is a period of free time scheduled into a regular research day, the staff will ask you to sign out of
the project (using a means which may vary by project and project location) if planning to leave the group. This
will include your destination and estimated time of return. If participants do not show up to the next activity
the project staff will then know where to begin a search.
• In the evenings when you can go out at night, you will again be asked to sign out of the project as above. The
project staff will give you 24-hour contact information for them should assistance be needed. The sign-out is
informational only and will not be used to enforce a curfew. Please be aware that project staff would not start
a search until the following morning or the next scheduled activity unless contacted for help sooner.
9

6. DAILY SCHEDULE AND TASKS
Please be aware that schedules can and do fluctuate due to weather, research needs, etc. Your cooperation and
understanding are appreciated. Note that during mid-summer it is light out until well after midnight, leaving
ample time for exploring the area in the evenings.
Below is a schedule for a typical research day.
9:00 am: Daily briefing, gear preparation, travel to research site
9:30 am-12:00 pm: Field observations,
12:00-1:00 pm: Lunch in the field
1:00-4:00 pm: Field observations, gear preparation/repair and data reduction/scoring
4:00-4:45 pm: Travel back from the field,
4:45-6:00 pm: Gear preparation/repair and data reduction/scoring
6:00-7:00 pm: Main meal, alternate dish duty between the various team members
7:00 pm: Discussion, activities, group data entry, recreational/down time
7. ACCOMMODATIONS
The team will stay in a historic house in the village of St. George, a very small community with a local store and
many nearby hiking opportunities. The house is part of the St. George Island Institute and has four bedrooms; the
two upstairs bedrooms are small singles and will house one individual each, while the two downstairs bedrooms
both have bunk beds and sleep two people. If necessary/desired, staff will assign rooms on the first day of the
expedition. The rooms with bunk beds will be single-gender, unless otherwise requested. Please inform
Earthwatch if you are joining the expedition with someone and would like to share one of the downstairs rooms.
You may also request one of the upstairs single rooms; however, there are only two single rooms and
accommodation cannot be guaranteed.
All beds are twin-size and linens will be provided. There is a kitchen/dining area, bathroom and living room on
the main floor. The bathroom is mixed-gender and has hot running water and a standard flush toilet. Because
there is only one shower for all team members to share, you are asked to limit your shower time. In general,
visitors to the island are asked to use water conservatively. There is a small washer and dryer in the house
available for limited use.
Electricity is standard US 110 voltage and takes US style two-prong plugs. The village runs on a diesel generator
and there are occasional outages. Internet access may be available for volunteer use either at the house or at the
Traditional Council office, about 100 yards from the house, though this cannot be guaranteed.
While the house is quite comfortable, please keep in mind that you will be staying in a field camp and privacy
may be limited. It is very important that you maintain a positive attitude and be considerate of your teammates.
Project staff will transport the team from the house to the research site each day in an eight-passenger bus owned
by the St. George Traditional Council. The drive will take approximately 20 minutes. Volunteers will need to hike
from the drop-off point to the study site. Please note that the hike is over very uneven ground, including a
marshy area and some boulders making the footing very uneven and often slippery. The hike is roughly a mile in
each direction.
10

8. FOOD
The Facility Manager will prepare dinner each evening, with help from the team. Typically some research staff
members will share this meal with the volunteers. Dish duty will be rotated among team members. Volunteers
will be expected to clean up after themselves and will be welcome to assist with food shopping, preparation, and
cooking. Team members will be responsible for making their own breakfasts and lunches. The kitchen will be
supplied with everything needed to prepare meals and a local store nearby has basic food items available for
purchase. Snack food and thermoses of hot drinks will be provided to take into the field.
Below are examples of the foods you might expect in the field. Please bear in mind that variety depends on
availability. This list is intended to provide a general idea of food types, but it is very important that volunteers
be flexible.
Breakfast:
Lunch:
Dinner:
Snacks/Other:
Beverages:
Hot and cold cereal, eggs, sausage, waffles, pancakes, etc.
Meat and/or cheese sandwiches, bagels, cheese and crackers, soup, peanut butter and jam,
cream cheese, etc.
Baked halibut, traditional local fish pie, stir-fried or stewed reindeer, spaghetti, lasagna,
chicken, pizza, roasts, salads (fruit, green, potato, macaroni), baked or mashed potatoes,
canned or frozen vegetables, dessert (cakes, pies, ice cream, etc.)
Trail mix, mixed nuts, energy bars, apples, oranges, bananas, pilot bread (a kind of hard
biscuit), etc.
Soda, milk (sometimes fresh, but more often in aseptic packages), juices, water (tap water is
safe to drink), tea, coffee, hot cocoa*
* Bottled water, beer and wine (for volunteers of legal drinking age) are also available for purchase locally at your
own expense. The legal drinking age in Alaska is 21 years of age.
Special Dietary Requirements
Most special diets, including vegetarian, can be accommodated with advance notice, however, it is important to
remember that St. George is a remote island without easy access to things like tofu, soymilk, etc. Please alert
Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g. diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other serious food
allergies) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms. Food may have to be
ordered and sent to the island. This can take weeks. If you need or want specific food items (e.g. special tea, snack
bars, etc.), it may be best to bring them with you to the island. Accommodating special diets is not guaranteed
and can be very difficult due to availability of food, location of field sites, and other local conditions.
Special note to vegans and strict vegetarians: Please be aware that it is often difficult to accommodate strict
vegetarians and vegans. It may be possible to get meatless meals but vegans and strict vegetarians may have a
problem avoiding animal products altogether. If this poses a problem, then participation on this Earthwatch
expedition should be seriously reconsidered.
11

TRAVEL PLANNING
9. BEFORE YOU LEAVE
Note: Earthwatch Institute’s international travel insurance company, International SOS, has a wealth of useful
information available at their website, including visa, passport, currency, medical, etc. information for the
country in which this project takes place. See www.internationalsos.com and enter Earthwatch’s member
identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English Country Guide,” and then select
this project’s country from the list. For a listing of other useful websites for passport and visa requirements, see
the Helpful Resources section. Since it is very likely that at least one of your flights either to or from St. George will
be cancelled due to weather, it is highly recommended that you get travel insurance for your flights. Please see
the Rendezvous section for additional advice on traveling to St. George.
Passport Information
Travelers to the United States from other countries will need passports valid for at least six months beyond the
dates of travel. Note that as of January 2007, under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, all citizens of US
dependencies and Canada (which previously only needed proof of citizenship) will be required to present a
passport when traveling to and from the Americas, the Caribbean, Bermuda and the US.
Visa Information
Note: Online registration is now mandatory for all visitors traveling to the United States without a visa. The
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is used to screen short-term visitors who are citizens of the 27
countries eligible for the US Visa Waiver Program (see below). Visitors are required to provide details including
their passport number, country of residence and any involvement in criminal or terrorist activities to the ESTA at
least three days before traveling to the US. Once approved, the authorization will be valid for up to two years if
the individual’s passport does not expire in the meantime. Applications can be submitted through the ESTA
website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov).
Note that if you are traveling to Canada, Mexico, Latin America or the Caribbean and have a stopover in the
US, you will be required to register through the ESTA program.
Travelers are advised to check visa regulations well in advance of traveling. Citizens of countries covered by the
Visa Waiver Program (VWP) traveling to the US for tourism or business for 90 days or less do not need to obtain
a visa provided they have a valid passport. Passports for VWP countries issued on or after October 26, 2006 must
include biometric information (so-called e-passports include a chip with the relevant information); otherwise, the
holder is required to obtain a visa. VWP citizens with passports issued between October 26, 2005 and October 25,
2006 do not require a visa as long as they have machine-readable passports with a digital photograph of the
holder. Citizens with valid but older machine-readable passports (issued prior to October 26, 2005) that do not
have a digital photograph are still allowed into the US without a visa.
Currently, the following countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium,
Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco,
the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
and the United Kingdom. Citizens of other countries should check with a travel or visa agency for specific visa
and entry requirements. Entry requirements are subject to change, so please check for updates in advance of your
travel. If you do need a visa, the chart below should be helpful.
12

Essential Information for Volunteers Requiring Visas
Type of Visa
Where to Get
a Visa
Required
Information
Contact
Information
Cost of a
Visa
You must get a TOURIST VISA.
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate to find out how to apply for your visa. Please
note that this process can take weeks or more. If you have less than six weeks or wish to save
yourself trouble, we strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and
simplify the process. See below for a list of visa agencies.
You will need to send your passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay), a Visa
Application and Immigration Form, 2-4 passport-size photos plus payment to the embassy
or visa agency (if applicable). Please be sure that your passport is valid for at least six months
beyond your stay.
You may be required to list the following contact information on your Visa Application and
Immigration Form:
You may be required to list the following contact information on your Visa Application and
Immigration Form:
**Please refer to the contact information provided to you in the printed briefing
Generally between US$40-100, but varies from country to country and can potentially cost
up to US$180. A visa agency will charge an additional fee (depending on the amount of time
it takes to process the application), which you can inquire about directly.
Reminder: The purpose of your visit is for vacation, holiday or travel. Foreign immigration officials do not
always understand the concept of a “working vacation” or even “volunteering.” Words such as
“working”/”volunteering,” “research” or a “scientific expedition” can raise questions concerning the country’s
foreign labor laws and/or prompt questions about official scientific research permits and credentials, etc., to
which volunteers on their own will not be equipped to respond. All required research permits for the project are
in place and have been approved by the proper authorities.
Visa Agencies
In the United States In Europe In Australia
PassportVisaExpress.com
1911 North Fort Myer Drive, Suite 104
Arlington, VA 22209
Tel: +1 888 596-6028, +1 703 351-0992
Fax: +1 703 351-0995
Email: info@passportvisaexpress.com
Web: www.passportvisasexpress.com
Volunteers Under 18 Years of Age
Entry to Foreign Countries
CIBT, Inc.-UK
25 Wilton Road
Lower Ground Floor
Victoria SW1V 1LW
T: 0844 736 0211
Fax: +44 (0) 207 828 5411
Calling from Europe outside UK:
+44 (0)207 802 1000
Email: info@uk.cibt.com
Web: www.uk.cibt.com (has alternate
address for urgent requests)
Ask your travel agency if they
can send your visa application on
your behalf.
In an effort to prevent international child abduction many governments have initiated procedures at entry/exit
points. It may be possible for 16- and 17-year-olds to participate in the project if accompanied by a parent or
guardian. In this case, if the minor will be traveling with only one guardian or if for any reason they will be
traveling alone, it may be necessary to have a notarized letter from all legal guardians stipulating that they may
travel unaccompanied or in the presence of a single guardian. This letter must give an explanation for why only
one parent or someone other than a parent is signing the letter. For example, if one parent is deceased, only one
parent has legal guardianship, or someone other than the parents are legal guardians, the letter should state that..
13

In addition, airlines may also have documentation requirements for unaccompanied minors. Parents of minors
are responsible for checking with each airline that their child will be flying to ensure that sufficient
documentation is provided. This could include a copy of a birth certificate or a notarized letter stating that the
minor has his or her parent’s permission to travel alone or with only one parent.
Note: Requirements by specific countries and airlines vary and change frequently. You MUST keep informed of
the requirements on your own to avoid problems at immigration. If a letter is not available, the volunteer under
18 can be refused entry into the country. There is nothing Earthwatch Institute can do to help in this circumstance.
Insurance
Emergency medical and evacuation insurance (MedEvac) is automatically included in the project cost you pay to
Earthwatch. This coverage is valid in the country of your Earthwatch expedition and during international travel
to and from your expedition. If the expedition takes place in your home country, coverage begins at the official
rendezvous date and time for the expedition and ends at the official departure date and time described in this
briefing document, and is incremental to your existing health insurance.
Please note that due to different governing laws in each country, policies are specific to each regional
Earthwatch office:
For Volunteers Who Sign Up Through the Earthwatch UK/Europe Office or Earthwatch Japan
Emergency medical and evacuation (MedEvac) insurance, plus trip cancellation/curtailment insurance is
included in the contribution you pay to Earthwatch. Cover for personal property is also included. Details of this
insurance policy, including the duration for which you are covered are included in your Expedition Briefing Pack.
Please refer any queries regarding this policy to Michelle Ralph at Sutton Winson in the UK. You can email her on
michelle.ralph@swib.co.uk or call her on +44 (0)1444 251164.
For Volunteers Who Sign Up Through the Earthwatch US Office
Emergency medical and evacuation (MedEvac) insurance, plus trip cancellation/curtailment insurance is
included in the contribution you pay to Earthwatch. Details of this insurance policy, including the duration for
which you are covered can be found at www.earthwatch.org/insurance. Please refer any queries regarding this
policy to Michelle Ralph at Sutton Winson in the UK, michelle.ralph@swib.co.uk. Or, from the US, dial 011-44-
1444-251164. Please note the time difference between the US and the UK, and call during UK business hours,
which are from 08:45 to 17:00 GMT (from November to April) and GMT +1 (from April to November). You may
also leave a message and request that she call you back.
Optional Additional Insurance for US and Canadian Volunteers
Earthwatch is offering comprehensive optional travel insurance through CSA Travel Protection as a service to our
US and Canadian volunteers. We are not able to offer this optional insurance to Earthwatch Europe volunteers
due to UK laws. While our inclusive insurance (see above) covers your emergency medical needs and trip
cancellation/curtailment up to £3000, the optional CSA policy covers lost luggage, pre-existing conditions, travel
delays, etc. For more information on this optional additional insurance policy, call CSA Travel Protection at 1-800-
348-9505 or visit www.csatravelprotection.com. Details can also be found on the Earthwatch website at
http://www.earthwatch.org/insurance. Please note: Some coverage is dependent on purchasing insurance
within 24 hours of paying in full for your expedition. Should you decide to purchase our optional insurance,
please use the following producer code to indicate your affiliation with Earthwatch: 83534816.
Emergency Medical and Evacuation Assistance (For All Volunteers)
The emergency medical and evacuation assistance provider for Earthwatch is International SOS (ISOS). ISOS is a
24-hour international operation that provides medical assistance and evacuation, a 24-hour medical help line and
other travel-related services such as international health and security information in advance of your trip.
14

To contact International SOS in the event of an emergency, dial:
• For assistance within the US: ISOS Philadelphia, +1 215 942 8459
• For assistance outside the US: ISOS London, +44 (0) 208 762 8550
State that you are on an Earthwatch expedition. The following information must be provided:
1. The Insured Person’s name
2. The Assured is EARTHWATCH, the Certificate No: GP 0010214 and SOS reference #14CPA000075
3. The telephone number and facsimile number where the Insured Person can be reached
4. The Insured Person's address abroad
5. The nature of the emergency
Travel Agencies
Contact your local travel agent or use the web to find the lowest rates to make your travel arrangements. A list of
suggested travel agents can be found in the Helpful Resources section. Be sure to give your rendezvous details to
your travel agent as soon as possible so they can plan your trip accordingly. Please note that travel to St. George
Island is very weather dependent and flights are cancelled frequently. If you use a travel agency make sure they
understand that it is best to book your whole itinerary as one segment, and preferably with Alaska Air so that
you will not have to pay a change fee for every flight if you do not make if off St. George on schedule. One such
recommended travel agent is:
Tandy and Ken Wallack
Circumpolar Expeditions
3201 West 31st Ave Suite # 101
Anchorage, Alaska 99517
Tel: +1 907-272-9299
US Toll Free: 888-567-7165
Fax: +1 907-278-6092
Email: info@arctictravel.net
Web: http://www.arctictravel.net/
Other Advice / Information
• Local currency: US dollars. See the International SOS website (above) and www.xe.com/ucc for currency
information and exchange rates.
• Language: English
• Telephone dialing codes: When calling the US from another country, dial the country’s international dialing
code, followed by 1 (US country code) and the number. When calling within the US to a different area code,
dial 1, the area code, and the number. When calling another country from the US, dial 011, followed by the
other country’s country code and the number. PLEASE NOTE: you should check with your cell phone
provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes you may need; many providers have dialing procedures
that may differ in whole or in part from these directions.
• Electricity: 110 volts, 60 hertz AC. Plugs with two flat prongs (Type A). Type B is also used in the US.
Plug Type A
Plug Type B
15

• Time zone: Alaska Daylight Time (UTC - 8)
• Personal funds: ATMs are available at the Anchorage Airport and one ATM is available at the local store on St.
George Island; however, the island has no other banking facilities. Volunteers should have US currency to use
on the island. Cash, traveler’s checks and credit cards are accepted at the store, but if you would like to
purchase local handicrafts, which range in price from US$25 to US$500, you will need cash. The store is able
to give cash back on MasterCard and Visa debit cards but may be limited by availability.
• Checking luggage: Please note that if you will be taking an international flight that has one or more connections
within the country of your destination, it will be necessary to collect any checked bags at the airport where
you first arrive in the destination country. After proceeding through Customs, you will have to recheck your
luggage before flying on to your final destination.
• Tipping: In Alaska, as in the rest of the US, it is customary to tip restaurant waitstaff, taxi drivers, hotel
room/maid service, etc. if you feel you have received good service.
• Air travel to St. George: Note that not all aircraft serving St. George have toilets. Flight time is approximately 2-
3 hours one-way, but if it is not possible to land (e.g. due to inclement weather), the aircraft will need to
return to Anchorage; in this case, the flight time would be 4-6 hours. Earplugs are usually available on the
plane but you may want to bring your own.
10. PROJECT CONDITIONS
Please show this section to your physician when he/she is completing your health statement. Be sure to discuss inoculation
requirements with your physician well in advance of your departure date. See Section 11 ‘Health Information’ for inoculation
information.
To the examining physician:
Your patient has volunteered to join a field research team that has specific physical demands of which you and
your patient should be aware. We need your accurate evaluation of your patient’s ability to meet the conditions
detailed below in order to safeguard his/her health and safety and ensure that he/she can participate fully and
effectively.
General Conditions of the Research Site
St. George Island experiences a maritime climate and even summers tend to be fairly cool. Most days are cloudy,
misty, foggy, and/or rainy, and can also be quite windy. St. George is a volcanic island with tussock grass, lava
and boulder fields, as well as tundra covered with mosses, crowberry and lichens. The highest point on the island
is a thousand-foot cliff that drops down to the Bering Sea. The south rookery study site is about 50 feet above sea
level.
Note: Because it is located so far north, Alaska experiences approximately 19 hours of sunlight per day around
the summer solstice (June 21). Summer nights never get completely dark, so volunteers may wish to bring
eyeshades for sleeping.
June-September Conditions on St. George Island
Humidity 50% to 100%
Temperature range 40°F/5°C to high 50s°F/15°C
Altitude 0 ft/0 m to 1,000 ft/305 m
Rainfall 22 in/0.56 m per year
Water temperature 2°C/35°F to 5°C/40°F
16

Physical Demands
Below are the expected demands of the project, but please keep in mind that conditions may change and the
project could potentially be more or less strenuous than the chart indicates.
Activity
Sitting
Bending
Hiking
Walking
Carrying
Workload/Intensity
On the ground for up to 4 hours per day
Bending and crawling into position at observation point up to 20 times per day
2-5 miles per day on uneven terrain with very unstable footing
On gravel roads around the village for about an hour per day
15-20 lbs (binoculars, spotting scope, radio, data books, pencils, lunch, thermos, extra
warm clothing, etc.) all day when working
Potential Hazards
Hazard Type
Transportation
Travel Delays
Hiking
Cliffs
Remoteness
Climate/
Weather
Associated Risks and Precautions
Staff will transport the team by eight-passenger bus over fairly well maintained
roads. You will be required to wear a seatbelt at all times in a moving vehicle.
Only qualified project personnel will be permitted to drive the project vehicle.
A serious risk of travel delays exists. Foggy conditions can often lead to
cancelled or delayed flights from Anchorage to St. George Island, or diverted
flights from Anchorage to St. Paul Island then on to St. George. Please see the
Rendezvous section for additional travel advice.
Some hiking over rough, rocky, muddy and often slippery terrain will be
necessary, with potential for slips, falls and sprains. Remember to walk slowly
and carefully, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid overexerting yourself by
taking breaks as needed.
Cliffs at the observation site are approximately 30-60 ft/10-20 m high and are
stable where observations are conducted. Participants will be required to use
extreme caution when working near the cliff edges. Project staff will instruct
participants in proper safety procedures when working on the cliffs. Some of
the cliffs on the island are unstable, so participants should not go near cliffs
without checking with project staff first.
This expedition takes place in a relatively remote location. There is a local
community health clinic nearby that is equipped to deal with most medical
situations; in the event of a major medical situation, MedEvac air transport
would be used to transport the patient(s) to a hospital in Anchorage. This
process may take up to several hours and can be further delayed by inclement
weather in which case it may be days before an evacuation is possible. See the
Emergencies in the Field section.
Temperatures will typically be 40°F/5°C or above, but it can feel considerably
colder when sitting outside for long periods of time, particularly in damp,
windy weather. Hypothermia is a potential hazard, but if you take care to stay
warm and dry, this should not pose a problem. Be sure to bring warm clothing
that can be layered and appropriate footwear for the project. Project staff will
reiterate the dangers of hypothermia and proper preventative measures upon
arrival. Symptoms of mild to moderate hypothermia include: sensation of cold
followed by pain in exposed parts of the body, increasing numbness or loss of
sensation, intense shivering, confusion and loss of muscle coordination.
17

Working near
cold water
Seals
Plants
The water temperature in the Bering Sea can be as low as 35°F/2°C even in the
summer, so there is a real danger of hypothermia upon entering the water.
Remember to use great caution when walking on rocks near the water or
participating in any recreational activities on or near the sea. Walk slowly and
carefully and wear appropriate footwear when walking or hiking in the area.
The seals can be dangerous and cause injury if approached. However,
observations will be conducted from a distance to avoid disturbance to the seals
and participants will not get close enough to be at risk.
Cow parsnip grows in the area starting in early June. The plant causes an itchy
rash in sensitive individuals. Staff will teach volunteers to recognize and avoid
this plant. Grasses and pollens in the area could aggravate allergies. Bring along
any necessary medications (e.g. antihistamines, at least two EpiKits, etc.) as
appropriate.
Medical Conditions of Special Concern
Condition
Condition requiring
prompt medical
treatment (e.g. heart
condition, severe
asthma, etc.)
Fear of heights/
vertigo
Lack of physical
fitness and/or limited
mobility
Cold sensitivity
Concerns and Precautions
Any condition that could quickly escalate to an emergency situation requiring
prompt treatment at a medical facility would prove difficult to accommodate.
Although there is a local community health clinic nearby that is equipped to deal
with most medical situations, in the event of a major medical situation, MedEvac air
transport would be used to transport patients to the closest hospital in Anchorage.
This process may take up to several hours or days if the weather is bad.
Much of the research observations will be made from the cliffs overlooking the
rookery. Working on the cliff may cause an attack of vertigo. Participants will be
required to use extreme caution when working near the cliff edges. Project staff will
instruct participants in proper safety procedures when working on the cliffs. Let staff
know if you suffer from this condition, and they will not put you in a vertigoinducing
location. Severe cases of vertigo could make participation in this expedition
difficult or uncomfortable.
A certain degree of mobility and stamina is required for the fieldwork. Some physical
limitations can be accommodated, but severe limitations to fitness and/or mobility
will make participation difficult or impossible. Any limitation to your ability to walk
or hike over uneven terrain, or bend or sit for long periods of time could make
participation in this expedition difficult or uncomfortable. Please speak with your
physician and Earthwatch.
Volunteers with a low tolerance to cool temperatures and humidity would find this
project challenging, especially if unprepared. Participants are advised to bring warm
clothing that can be layered and appropriate footwear (please see the Expedition
Packing Checklist at the back of this Briefing).
18

11. HEALTH INFORMATION
See www.internationalsos.com for information on the current health conditions in the US. At the homepage,
enter Earthwatch’s member identification number: 14ACPA000075. Under “Select Resource” choose “English
Country Guide,” and then select the US from the list.
Routine Immunizations
All volunteers should make sure to have the following up-to-date immunizations: DPT (diphtheria, pertussis,
tetanus), polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and varicella (if you have not already had chicken pox). Please
be sure your tetanus shot is current.
Project Inoculations
The following are recommendations only. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer. Note that
health conditions around the world are constantly changing, so keep informed and consult your physician, a local
travel health clinic, the US Center for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov), the World Health Organization
(www.who.int), International SOS (see above), and/or the resources in the Helpful Resources section for the latest
health information for travelers. Please consult your physician for guidance on inoculations if you intend to travel
to other parts of the country.
12. PACKING CONSIDERATIONS
PLEASE SEE THE PACKING CHECKLIST AT THE BACK OF THIS BRIEFING AND REMEMBER TO TAKE
YOUR BRIEFING WITH YOU ON YOUR EXPEDITION.
General Considerations
Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. The local airline allows two bags of up to
50 pounds each, and one hand carry-on. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, you are advised to pack
an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost and/or takes
several days to catch up with you. You are also encouraged to bring snacks (granola bars, etc.) in your carry-on in
the event your flight is delayed or re-routed. Any type of luggage is fine. Staff will provide binoculars and
spotting scopes, but feel free to bring your own if you have them and would like to use them.
Note: Many airlines have strict baggage policies. Please check with your airline(s) on baggage weight limits,
liquid restrictions, fees for checked baggage, etc.
Weather Considerations
Please take weather conditions into consideration when packing for your expedition. Climate information can be
found in the Project Conditions section. Bring layers of warm clothing, a warm hat and gloves, and good mediumto
light-weight rain gear. You are advised to wear a warm insulating layer (e.g. thermal underwear and fleece
clothing) beneath an outer shell layer (e.g. Gore-Tex) to protect against wind and rain. Bring a daypack to store
extra clothing in the field as you add and remove layers according to changing weather.
Rubber boots that fit well are essential and will be the primary footwear used. When selecting a pair of boots,
remember to wear thick, warm socks and do not purchase boots that are too tight, especially on the top of the
foot. Rubber boots with soft non-slip soles are the best (i.e. XtraTuff brand boots or similar).
Note: The St. George Island Institute has extra foul-weather gear, footwear, and warm clothes, so if a participant
finds they need some extra clothing or warmer gear, project staff may be able to provide it.
19

Essential Items
Make sure to bring your Earthwatch Expedition Briefing with you! It includes essential information to which
you may need to refer during your expedition, as well as during your journey to and from the project site.
Again, clothing for cool and wet conditions is essential, as well as well-fitting rubber boots, a daypack, any
specialty food items, a good novel or two, a camera with extra/chargeable batteries and a flash drive for
downloading pictures (if digital), and if you have your own, a set of good quality binoculars. Perhaps most
importantly, bring along a good attitude to explore, discover and work hard with others in often difficult
conditions!
Please see the Expedition Packing Checklist for a complete list of what you will need to take with you. You are
encouraged to go through the list and mark off each required item right before you leave for your expedition.
13. RECOMMENDED READING
Please read Alaskan fur Seals: The Research in the Appendix of this Expedition Briefing. This document was
prepared by the Earthwatch Scientist(s) and Earthwatch and explains the research conducted through this project
as well as some results to date. Below are additional recommended materials for those interested in further
preparing for the expedition. Many can be purchased online through popular vendors. See the Helpful Resources
section for suggested vendor websites.
Research Articles by Alaskan Fur Seals Scientists
Note: A PDF copy of these papers may be requested from Earthwatch.
• Insley, S.J., Phillips, A. and Charrier, I. 2003. A review of social recognition behavior in pinnipeds. In: Aquatic
Mammals, Special Issue (eds. R. Schusterman and S. van Parijs), 29: 181-201.
• Insley, S.J. 2000. Long-term vocal recognition in the northern fur seal. Nature, 406: 404-405.
• Robson, B.W., Goebel, M.E., Baker, J.D., Ream, R.R., Loughlin, T.R., Francis, R.C., Antonelis, G.A., and Costa,
D.P. 2004. Separation of foraging habitat among breeding sites of a colonial marine predator, the northern fur
seal (Callorhinus ursinus). Canadian Journal of Zoology 82:20-29.
Other Recommended Scientific Media
• Gentry, R.L. 2002. Northern fur seal. In: Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals (eds. W.F. Perrin, B. Wursig, and
H.G.M. Thewissen). Pages 813-817. Academic Press, San Diego, CA (included in the Appendix). *The
Scientists highly recommend that you read this prior to your expedition.
• Scheffer, V.B. 1991. The Year of the Seal. Lyons and Burford (easy to read accounts of northern fur seal natural
history).
Cultural and Historic Media of Interest
• A Century of Servitude by Dorothy Knee Jones (available online at
http://arcticcircle.uconn.edu/HistoryCulture/Aleut/Jones/jonesindex.html)
• Sea Bears, The story of the Fur Seal by Fredericka Martin (1960, Chilton Company, Book Division)
• Libby, The sketches, letters, and journal, of Libby Beaman, recorded in the Pribilofs 1879-1880 as presented by her
granddaughter Betty John (1987, Council Oak Books)
• The Seal-Islands of Alaska by Henry W. Elliott (1976, The Limestone Press)
• World within a World Pribilofs by Ted Lewin (1980, Dodd, Mead and Company)
• Where the Sea Breaks Its Back by Corey Ford (1966, Alaska Northwest Books)
20

Videos and other media
• The Aleut Story (see http://www.aleutstory.tv)
• Henry Wood Elliott: Defender of the Fur Seal (see http://www.oercommons.org/courses/henry-wood-elliottdefender-of-the-fur-seal)
*The Scientists highly recommend this video
• Alaskan Fur Seals 2008 project blog: http://earthwatchfurseal.blogspot.com/
Project Field Report
Each Earthwatch Institute-supported project submits a report on the past year’s research and results to
Earthwatch, generally on an annual basis. The most recent field report for this project may be available online
through http://www.earthwatch.org/exped/insley.html. Note that reports are not available for all projects.
14. EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD
Minor injuries can be treated at the local St. George Traditional Clinic, which is staffed by a community health
aid. The clinic is in consultation with doctors at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage and is able to
take most insurance payments. In the event of a serious injury/illness, the patient(s) would need to be flown by
MedEvac to a major hospital in Anchorage; this could take several hours, or even days in the event of inclement
weather, to arrange.
Should a volunteer need to leave the project early due to a personal emergency, a staff member will help make
arrangements for the volunteer to take the next available PenAir flight to Anchorage (depending on space
availability) and get them to the airport. Please note that PenAir only flies on Tuesdays, Thursdays and
Saturdays, so the volunteer may need to wait 2-3 days for the next flight; flights are also dependent on favorable
weather conditions.
Proximity to Medical Care
Closest Emergency Personnel
Staff Certified in Safety
Training
Nearest Clinic
Nearest Full-facility Hospital
The village has three Emergency Trauma Technicians.
Stephen Insley and Bruce Robson are certified in CPR
(Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid. Ryan
Kingsbery has a wilderness first aid certificate
St. George Traditional Clinic
P.O. Box 934, St. George, Alaska 99591
Tel: +1 907 859-2254 or Channel 16
Distance: 15 miles (30-40 minutes) from the research sites;
just a few houses from the project accommodations
Providence Hospital
3200 Providence Drive, Anchorage, Alaska 99519
Tel: +1-907-562-2211
Distance: 750 mi/1,200 km (3-4 hour flight from the island);
total time depends on weather conditions and the time taken
for a MedEvac flight to arrive but can be several hours or
days
21

15. COMMUNICATIONS
• PLEASE NOTE: you should check with your cell phone provider to obtain any carrier-specific dialing codes
you may need while on your expedition or en route there or home; many providers have dialing procedures
that may differ in whole or in part from directions listed in this Briefing.
Emergency Communications in the Field
There is landline phone service, but no cell phone service on the island. Each group will have VHF radios so that
they can be in touch with each other and with others on the island. The clinic can always be reached on Channel
16.
The emergency contact number at Earthwatch headquarters in the US is +1 978 461-0081. After business hours,
leave your message with the live answering service. State that you have an emergency communication and leave a
clear message with the name of the expedition, your name, location from which you are calling, and if possible, a
phone number where you can be reached. An Earthwatch staff person will be contacted and will respond to your
call within one hour.
Personal Communications
Please note: Family and friends of Earthwatch volunteers should be aware that personal communication with
outsiders is not always possible while participating in an expedition. Earthwatch encourages volunteers to
minimize outgoing calls; likewise, family and friends should restrict calls to urgent messages only. Measures have
been taken to ensure that appropriate communication tools are available in cases of emergency.
There is cell phone service in Anchorage, but not on the island. The house has a phone (+1-907-859-2257) and can
receive calls from anywhere. Outgoing long-distance calls can only be made with calling cards, which can be
purchased in the local store. If you purchase a calling card prior to the expedition, make sure it will work in
Alaska.
Internet/email access may be available to volunteers on a limited basis (free of charge) in House 14 (the team
accommodations) and at the Traditional Council Office (about 100 yards from the project house). There is a post
office on the island; mail planes and UPS deliver mail three times per week (weather permitting).
If necessary, volunteers can be reached via the contact information below.
Address House 14
St. George Island
Alaska 99591
Priority mail can take up to 3 weeks, but averages about 10
days.
Phone +1-907-859-2257 This number should only be used for emergency purposes,
but is available 24 hours per day.
Fax +1-907-859-2242 Faxes may be picked up at the Traditional Council Office.
The fax should note that it is for someone at House 14.
Email
Personal webbased
addresses
Volunteers will have limited internet access at House 14 and
at the Traditional Council Office during opening hours on
weekdays.
22

16. HELPFUL RESOURCES
Project-related Websites
• http://earthwatchfurseal.blogspot.com/
Information on St. George Island
• St. George tourist site: http://www.stgeorgealaska.com
• St. George Eco-office: http://www.stgeorgetribe.com
• Photos taken on St. George: http://oceanmists61.blogspot.com
• Mysty Isles of St. George (photos taken on St. George): http://www.mystyisles.net
• St. George Island Institute: http://www.stgeorgeislandinstitute.com
• PenAir website for booking tickets from Anchorage to St. George: http://www.penair.com
Passport and Visa Information
• Embassies around the world: http://www.embassyworld.com
• For Japanese citizens: http://www.rainbowt.jp/travel/visa_top.html
• For Australian citizens: https://www.passports.gov.au and http://www.dfat.gov.au/visas/index.html
• Passport Visa Express (for US citizens): www.passportvisasexpress.com
• UK-based visa service www.uk.cibt.com
• Thames Consular Services Ltd: http://www.visapassport.com
• Travel Document Systems: http://www.traveldocs.com/index.htm
Travel Guidebooks and Booksellers
• Lonely Planet: http://www.lonelyplanet.com
• Rough Guide: http://travel.roughguides.com
• Amazon: http://www.amazon.com
• Barnes and Noble: http://www.bn.com
Travel Agencies and Advice
• STA Travel: http://www.statravel.com
65 Mt. Auburn St.
Cambridge, MA 02138
Tel: +1 617 576-4623
Fax: +1 617 576-2740
Email: cam@statravel.com
• STA Travel (UK): http://www.statravel.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0) 1865 792800
Fax: +44 (0) 1865 792911
Email: manager.oxford@statravel.co.uk
Quote code: EWE01/02
• Wexas International (Europe): http://www.wexas.com
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7581 8761
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7581 7679
Email: southern@wexas.com
Quote code: EWE01/02
• Democracy Travel (contact Jean S. West, Assistant Manager)
4818 MacArthur Blvd NW
Washington DC 20007
Tel: 202 965 7200 or 866-557-9968 (toll free US and Canada)
Fax: 202 342 0471
23

Email: jean@democracytravel.com
• Circumpolar Expeditions (contact Tandy and Ken Wallack)
3201 West 31st Ave Suite # 101
Anchorage, Alaska 99517
Tel: +1 907-272-9299
US Toll Free: 888-567-7165
Fax: +1 907-278-6092
Email: info@arctictravel.net
Web: http://www.arctictravel.net/
World Travel Guide: http://www.worldtravelguide.com
UK Foreign Office travel advice: http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel
Airline/Airport Resources
• Flight comparison tools: http://www.bookingbuddy.com and http://www.1800-fly.com
• Airport codes worldwide: http://www.logisticsworld.com/airports.asp
Country Information
• Country information from around the world: http://www.countryreports.org
• National Geographic Map Machine: http://plasma.nationalgeographic.com/mapmachine
• US State Department: http://www.state.gov
• Time worldwide with GMT/UTC: http://www.worldtimeserver.com
• Currency converter: http://www.xe.com
• Electrical current converter: http://kropla.com/electric2.htm
• Telephone dialing codes: http://kropla.com/dialcode.htm
• Online unit conversions: http://www.onlineconversion.com
• Worldwide weather: http://www.wunderground.com or http://www.tutiempo.net/en
• ATM locator: http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp or
http://www.mastercard.com/atmlocator/index.jsp
Health Information
• Travel health website: http://www.mdtravelhealth.com
• Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov
Tel: +1 800 311-3435 or +1 888 232-3228
• World Health Organization: http://www.who.int
• The Travel Doctor: http://www.tmvc.com.au
• Disease outbreaks: http://www.who.int/csr/don/en
• Travellers Healthline Advisory Service
Tel: 020 7950 7799
• MASTA Travelers’ Healthline (UK)
Tel: 0906 8 224100 (within UK)
24

APPENDIX
ALASKAN FUR SEALS: THE RESEARCH
The following information was taken from the research proposal submitted by the Earthwatch Scientist(s) to
Earthwatch Institute. Included is a description of the research conducted through this project, some results to
date, and other information regarding the accomplishments of the project and the staff. Specific details
regarding research sites, methods, etc. is subject to change slightly from year to year and such changes may
not be incorporated into this document.
BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES, AND METHODS
The focus of the Alaskan Fur Seals research project is long-term monitoring of population age structure in the
northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) of the Pribilof Islands in Alaska. For long-lived animals such as marine
mammals, understanding the age structure of the population is critical in assessing its future viability and health.
Healthy populations have a mix of age groups. Decreases in different age groups have different consequences.
For example, lack of recruitment (maturing young animals) in a population results in a gradual increase of the
average reproductive age. In the short term, the result may be a slight decrease in the overall population. The
delayed response, however, can be an accelerated population decrease and possibly a crash once the depressed
numbers of younger animals mature and fail to sufficiently replace the primary breeding age group. Whether or
not northern fur seals are currently experiencing age-biased population changes is unknown. If it were known, it
could shed light on the cause of the current decline as well as indicate future population trends. The main goal of
our current study is to test whether we can quantify changes in the age structure of breeding age northern fur seal
females. The study began in 2004 and the methodology has been refined and proven successful (Robson et al
unpublished data, 2007).
Our ability to understand the factors influencing the current fur seal population decline is complicated by a lack
of information on vital rates in the Pribilof population. At the moment, estimates of the total population are made
using a correction factor derived from survival and fecundity estimates. These estimates are based on data
collected from females collected at sea between 1958 and 1974 and whether or not they remain valid or have
changed as the population declines is unknown. There is no current data available to compare age composition
and fecundity to the 1950s data. As a result, there is insufficient information to evaluate whether reduced juvenile
or adult survival is an underlying cause of the decline, or whether fewer females are returning to land and giving
birth to pups. It is also possible given the precipitous rate of decline observed in recent years, that both factors
may be in play. Little is known about juvenile survival after pups leave the Pribilof Islands, although substantial
research efforts are currently underway to track the movement of pups during the winter migration. However,
similar research efforts to study vital rates in the fur seal population are only just beginning. It is noteworthy in
this regard that anecdotal observations of groups of mostly white-whiskered (older) females on the back edge of
rookeries, appearing to be without pups, have been made in recent years by both local (G. Fratis, Island Sentinel
Database, St. Paul Island) and scientific researchers (A. York, Pers. Comm.).
The urgent need for updated information on fur seal vital rates is complicated by the logistical difficulty, expense
and potential disturbance associated with the longitudinal studies required to obtain survival and fecundity
estimates from marked individuals. Efforts are underway to evaluate a range of techniques for use in such longterm
monitoring studies, but the studies are only in their initial stages. In addition, even in the event that longterm
tagging studies are initiated soon, it will be 10 years or more before information on vital rates in the Pribilof
fur seal population are available (e.g. see Boyd et al. 2001).
25

In response to these concerns, the Pribilof Island Stewardship Program and the St. George Island Traditional
Council initiated a study in 2004 to collect a suite of approximate measures of the current female age composition
and birth rate to provide insight into the causes of the current fur seal population decline (e.g. Holmes and York
2003). To accomplish this goal, two forms of data collection are ongoing: (1) daily direct counts of pups and adult
females in order to provide an index of change in numbers of focal groups of animals over time, including any
variability in the peak of female arrival and pupping between years; and (2) surveys of adult female vibrissae
(whisker) color to estimate the approximate stage-based age composition of females in the Pribilof population.
Earthwatch volunteers assist with both of these activities opportunistically, listed and detailed as Objectives 1 and
2 below. A third component of this study looks at the contribution of female age to maternal care (i.e. experience).
Earthwatch volunteers are most intimately involved with this activity, listed and detailed below as Objective 3.
Objective 1: Conduct Direct Counts of Northern Fur Seal Females and Pups
Daily direct counts of pups and adult females are conducted in order to provide an index of change in numbers
of animals over time, including any variability in the peak of female arrival and pupping between years. An
analysis of change in age structure over time must take into account variation in the overall population. Research
on Antarctic fur seals has shown that late season foraging conditions can influence the arrival time and
parturition (birthing) date of females in the subsequent breeding season (Lunn and Boyd 1994). While data on
tagged individual females is necessary to quantify this relationship, more general information on the peak arrival
time of females and mean pupping dates is useful to identify trends.
Pup Counts
The first pups are born in mid-June. The number of pups counted on land continues to increase until the
beginning of August when the first pups are observed entering the water. Total counts of fur seal pups are
conducted every 3-4 days during the late-June, July and early-August portions of the breeding season. Observers
count pups from vantage points on cliffs above South rookery. Each count is repeated for reliability and to
quantify technique variability. Field observers are equipped with a high resolution digital camera to take daily
photographs of the rookery sections as they conduct their counts. These images are also used to develop an
observer specific catalog of vibrissae color categories for evaluation and standardization of the protocol.
Female Counts
Females begin arriving in Mid-June. The total number of females counted on land peaks in the second week of
July. Total female counts are conducted separately from pup counts. Total female counts are also conducted
separately from the sum of the group totals from the vibrissae counts at each study site. Vibrissae sampling totals,
however, are used for replication purposes.
Objective 2: Quantify Female and Pup Numbers in Each Vibrissae Color Category
The key to quantifying rookery age structure non-invasively depends on the validity of externally visible age
correlates. Vibrissae (whisker) color provides such a correlate in northern fur seals. Several studies have
documented vibrissae color change of adult female northern fur seals and have correlated changes in color with
age (Scheffer 1962; Baba et al. 1991; Vladimirov and Nikulin 1993). Data collected for females killed during the
female harvest conducted from 1958 to 1974 are the most complete information on vibrissae color and age for the
Pribilof population. Three general categories of vibrissae color, dark, mixed and white, have been described in
relation to known age females: younger females (ca. 3-4 yrs) tend to have dark vibrissae; middle aged females (ca.
5-7 yrs) tend to have mixed vibrissae and older females (ca. > 8 yrs) tend to have white vibrissae.
The age distributions of females in each color category differed between studies conducted by Scheffer (1962) and
Baba (1991). This finding raised the question of whether vibrissae color can be used as a precise indicator of
female age structure given the potential spatial and temporal variation within and between populations (Jason
Baker, unpublished data). The difference observed between the studies by Scheffer (1962) and Baba (1991),
however, may be explained by variation between spatially separated populations. The females examined in the
later study were from the Russian fur seal population where it has been shown that females reached sexual
maturity approximately 1 year earlier than females in the Pribilof population (Craig 1966). Because our
investigation is restricted to trend data in a specific area, the effects of inter-population spatial variation is not an
26

issue (e.g. Scheffer 1962; Vladimirov and Nikulin 1993; current studies on Robben Island), but we remain keenly
interested in such comparisons.
Our data from South rookery on St. George Island thus far indicate that within season variation in vibrissae color
follows expected patterns. During June, the rookery was occupied almost exclusively by older, white whiskered
females, and this category of females occurred in the largest numbers throughout the study period. The
asymptote in counts of adult females occurred in mid-July, just prior to an increase in the proportion of younger,
mixed whiskered females on the rookery. This shift likely occurred as large numbers of older (white whiskered)
females, having completed their perinatal visit, departed on their first foraging trip. In late July, a decrease in the
proportion of younger females in all three rookery sections occurred as these mixed whiskered females should
have departed for their perinatal foraging trip. Early August was marked by a gradual increase in the proportion
of younger, black whiskered females on the rookery. Counts were terminated at the end of August when the
majority of females had given birth and increasing numbers of juvenile males, which cannot be reliably
distinguished at a distance from young females, gain access to the rookery.
Regarding data consistency, our data thus far indicate that patterns in the observed proportion of female vibrissae
color are consistent between sections at South rookery. Furthermore, replicate counts were conducted by both
experienced and novice counters during both July and August at South rookery to assess the degree of observer
bias. These observations indicate which data are most reliably obtained by novice counters.
Further validation of the proposed technique will allow for a direct comparison of the vibrissae color of females
killed in the female harvest between the 1950s, when the population was at its historical maximum, and the
present. A tangible result of this analysis will be an age-vibrissae color key from "published" data and the
proposed study that will allow us to compare age-group (stage) structure of females present on the rookery from
1950 to the present time. Given the likelihood that precise data on fur seal vital rates will not be available for some
time, information on the relative proportion of females in each vibrissae color category will at minimum be useful
as a “stage-based index” that will provide useful refinements for population models and to determine whether
the relative age distribution of females on Pribilof rookeries tends to change over time (e.g. Holmes and York
2003). As an illustration of this point, data from surveys conducted on South rookery on July 27, 1991 by
Vladimirov and Nikulin (1993) estimated that 34.8% of the females present on the rookery were either black or
mixed vibrissae color. This is in contrast to approximately 10% of the females observed in these categories during
our 2004 pilot study. Clearly, methodological differences must be carefully considered when interpreting these
sorts of comparisons. However, such a marked contrast in the approximate percent composition of young females
on the rookery may be an indication of poor recruitment of young females into the breeding population.
Although preliminary, these data present compelling information that this is an important aspect of fur seal
population dynamics on the Pribilof Islands that demands immediate attention.
Vibrissae Sampling Categories
Previous studies (Scheffer 1962; Baba et al. 1991; Vladimirov and Nikulin 1993) have established that younger
females (ca. 3-4 yrs) tend to have dark vibrissae; middle aged females (ca. 5-7 yrs) tend to have mixed vibrissae
and older females (ca. >8 yrs) tend to have white vibrissae. Thus we can claim with confidence that mixedwhiskered
females tend to be older than black whiskered females, and that white-whiskered females tend to be
older than black and mixed-whiskered females. The study methodology involves scanning the study site with
binoculars or using the remote video camera and categorizing females based on vibrissae color. The most
effective technique will be to use the binocular field of vision or the camera frame to restrict the field of vision and
categorize each female in a group (see group structure below) as she comes into view. The count of females in
each category will be recorded during the scan on a hand tally counter and at the end of each group the tally
should be recorded for each group in the database. Each female visible in the study area is tallied in one of the
following vibrissae categories:
Almost All Black
Females categorized as almost all black can have some white whiskers; however the overall impression is that the
vibrissae are black.
27

Mixed
The mixed category includes females that don’t fit into either the Almost All Black or the Almost All White
categories. Mixed females can have some whiskers that are all white, some that are all black, or some that are
banded black-and-white on the same whiskers.
Almost All White
Females categorized as Almost All White can have some dark whiskers; however the overall impression is that
the vibrissae are white. This category includes the yellowish whiskers often seen on older females.
Not Visible
Not Visible includes all females who can be counted but whose faces can’t be seen well enough to determine the
color of the vibrissae (Figure 3). This category is necessary in order to compare the sum of the vibrissae categories
to the total number of females in the group.
Group Structure
The counts of vibrissae color are also tallied separately for females in distinct groups in order to obtain a
relatively unbiased estimate of the proportion of females with different vibrissae colors. Group size varies
tremendously. Previous research indicates that the proportion of white-whiskered females tends to be higher in
larger groups, whereas the proportion of mixed and black-whiskered females increases in smaller groups.
Separate group counts are also important because the proportion of females in the “not visible” category is higher
in larger groups.
Replicate Counts
Once study sites have been selected and the boundaries for counting sections established, paired samples will be
collected to obtain replicate counts of female vibrissae color within each study site. Replicate counts are defined
as paired counts of the age structure and group size of females within each sampled area. This process will allow
for the estimation of variability in counts of vibrissae color and group size. Replicate counts will be identified in
the database with the date and a replicate ID number to match counts made by different samplers.
Objective 3: Quantify age variation in female maternal behaviors (i.e. experience).
The activities that Earthwatch volunteers are most intimately involved with on a daily basis are quantifying age
variation in female maternal behaviors (i.e. experience). Here, volunteers measure a suite of behaviors of femalepup
pairs that relate to parenting quality. The pairs are categorized and analyzed by age class resulting in data
that addresses whether older females are measurably better moms. The data directly relates to our overall stated
objective of population level impacts of changing age structure, in this case via a behavioral pathway.
Successfully raising a fur seal pup to weaning involves regularly conducting a suite of complex behaviors
including protection, nutritional provisioning, and successfully reuniting with the pup after each foraging trip
(Insley 2000; Insley et al 2003). Experience with age appears to play an important role in many of these behaviors
although evidence to date is mostly anecdotal. The population level implications of a shift in female age structure
can be substantial. For example, fewer experienced mothers may lead to a decrease in the number of healthy
weaned pups that survive to breed. To date, however, there exists little information quantifying experiential
factors in pinnipeds in general and nothing for northern fur seals.
The first phase of this portion of our study quantifies a well chosen suite of behaviors that are essential to pup
survival, including the amount of time spent nursing, frequency of protective behavior, and reunion efficiency. To
do this, specific female/pup pairs are observed for predetermined periods (e.g. 2 hour blocks). During the focal
observation periods, the behaviors of interest are recorded both opportunistically and at set time intervals using a
28

egimented system of scan samples. Focal seals are females representing different age categories, balanced for
statistical comparison.
Volunteers are first trained with video samples in camp prior to the first block of recordings. They are then paired
and conduct both scan and opportunistic samples of female-pup pairs for two hour blocks of time in the field. We
also developed a database for entering data quickly and efficiently afterwards so datasheets didn’t merely pile up
and individual volunteers had a sense of their contribution. In addition, we found that having a set focus while
watching the fur seals created an observational structure that resulted in volunteers seeing much more detail than
if they had attempted to watch in an unstructured manner.
Objective 4: Additional Research Currently Being Conducted on St. George Island
We have several additional projects underway on St. George Island that operate hand-in-hand with the local
Tribal Government through their Island Sentinel Program. We briefly describe some of these projects as extra
activities that Earthwatch volunteers may be able to directly participate in. Participation would depend on such
factors as weather and the specific activities currently underway.
Female Fur Seal Entanglement Surveys
The objective of the female entanglement survey is to (1) estimate the proportion of adult females entangled on
the study site, (2) to record the types of entangling debris observed on adult female fur seals, and (3) to describe
within-season changes in the incidence of adult female entanglement (Kiyota and Fowler 1994). In conjunction
with the female vibrissae study, we also wish to evaluate whether it is feasible to collect data that may indicate
whether the entanglement rate among females differs by age category. It should be noted that, based on previous
studies, the observed rate of female entanglement on St. Paul Island ranges from 0.007% to 0.035% (Stepetin et al.
2000). Given this low incidence, it is unlikely that a sufficient number of entangled females will be observed to
evaluate differences in entanglement rates between vibrissae categories. However we are investigating methods
for incorporating entanglement surveys into the vibrissae sampling protocol for use in the event that a more
extensive program of vibrissae sampling is conducted in the future.
Entanglement surveys can be conducted simultaneously with vibrissae surveys. If both the faces and neck of all
females in a group are visible, the number of females surveyed for entanglement will be equal to the group total
count. If the entire neck of any female in a vibrissae category (other than the not visible category) are not
sufficiently visible to check for entangling debris, the count for that category will be adjusted and the total count
adjusted accordingly.
Steller Sea Lion Observations: (1) Abundance (2) Mark Re-Sights and (3) Age Structure
Digital video and high-resolution still photographs taken with remote systems are used to collect information on
daily abundance and diurnal haul-out behavior of Steller sea lions at a number of study sites around the island
that are difficult to reach regularly. The remote systems include See More Wildlife remote video cameras and
SciFish remote digital cameras. Hourly counts conducted at least once each week have been used to determine
maximal daily census periods. Replicate counts of every photograph are made by at least two researchers to
ensure count reliability. Whenever possible, sea lions observed on fur seal haul-out areas are also classified by sex
and age (adult male, adult female and juvenile).
Branded Steller sea lions have routinely been observed hauled out on St. George Island. There is no Steller sea
lion marking program on the Pribilof Islands so any such animals (i.e. branded or tagged) originate from the
Aleutian Islands, the Gulf of Alaska, or the Commander Islands in Russia. Documenting such incidents is
valuable for determining dispersal patterns and movement distances. The information is made readily available
to researchers in collaborating organizations (e.g. Alaska SeaLife Center, Alaska Department of Fish and Game,
and the National Marine Mammal Laboratory). In addition, marked animals provide the opportunity to follow
attendance patterns of specific individuals over longer time periods and every attempt is made to do so. Daily
scans for branded sea lions are conducted using digital video and still photographs archived during daily census
activities. When branded sea lions are observed at a local fur seal haul-out, close-up photographs of these
individuals are recorded along with any additional behavioral information and observations.
29

Local researchers have documented the use of St. George Island haul-outs by lactating females with dependant
pups. Based on observations of sea lions in other parts of the range, it is likely that females from the Walrus
Island rookery (ca. 60 km north) move their pups to the more protected haul-outs on St. George Island during the
fall and winter. However, the degree to which lactating females from other meta-populations in the western Gulf
of Alaska or Aleutian Islands may utilize Bering Sea haul-outs during winter is unknown. In order to clarify
suckling events, juvenile sea lions observed in association with likely adult females will be targeted for detailed
observation to determine the nature of the association.
Reindeer Census and Impact on Tundra Vegetation
The goal of the vegetation monitoring program is to understand the continued impacts of the reindeer herd (100-
400 free ranging animals) on the vegetation, particularly the lichens, of St. George Island. Monitoring sites consist
of permanent north-south transects which allow researchers to return to the exact same areas over time and
record ongoing trends. Vegetation cover estimates will allow researchers to determine how the range is changing
over time, e.g. whether lichens are being replaced by grasses or lupine.
Vegetation is measured within 2.5m 2 quadrants along a number of predefined transect lines. Vegetation cover
categories include bare ground, rock, organic mat, grass/sedge, forb, crowberry, moss, lichen, and willow.
Estimates are made to the nearest 5%. Organic mat is defined as the layer of dead lichen/moss/crowberry that
lies above the mineral soil. In addition, measurement of the 3 longest Cladina arbuscula lichens found at each site
provides a metric of general lichen health in the area. Digital photos are also taken of each quadrant in order to
make year-to-year comparisons and to note any changes in vegetation, as well as any trends in the health of the
range. Finally, notes are taken about the range, including signs of reindeer usage such as cratering, severity of
cratering, lichen availability, exposed roots, health of moss, etc. and describing the characteristics of the area
including dominant vegetation and any unique features.
RESULTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Benefit of Research Program
At the local level, the research program is designed to provide direct employment (both science/stewardship
jobs and hospitality jobs), aid with data collection for fur seal and possibly other Island Sentinel activities,
provide input from a diverse group of volunteers with varying life specialties regarding a wide range of possible
local issues, and of course provide direct information on the health of the local environment upon which their
local existence depends. Our project will further directly involve the local communities by hiring local students
as on-site field assistants and also through participation in the locally run Island Sentinel Program.
The program’s impact at the national and international levels operates at two levels of conservation, biological
and educational. The specific focus of the program is the ecology and conservation of the northern fur seal,
however, the species is an important ecological indicator informing us about the health of the Bering Sea as well
as the North Pacific Ocean. This involves the nations of Russia, Canada and Japan. In addition, the program is
designed to augment biological information being collected by the NMFS, who along with the local Aleut natives
are charged with management of northern fur seals.
The educational impact of the program is multifaceted. First, learning between the native community and
scientists (e.g. the PIs) functions in both directions and is facilitated by the research program. Scientists are
learning more about local and traditional knowledge and how to incorporate it into the hypothesis driven
western scientific methodology. On the other hand, locals are learning about the western science methodology;
both how to design monitoring programs and how to communicate to an audience mostly educated in the
language of western science. The second significant educational impact involves information exchange among
scientists, locals and volunteers. This exchange of knowledge can also work in all directions. Through direct
participation in the research program and interaction with locals, volunteers learn about many aspects of the
30

local environment including threats, politics (local, national and international), what is being accomplished, and
what threats need to be addressed. This (hopefully) is communicated to a much wider audience than would
otherwise be possible. Furthermore, it is communicated via direct experience not indirectly through the various
media (e.g. television) to which people are largely habituated. In the other direction, both locals and scientists
can often learn a great deal from volunteers given the wide range of experiences they bring with them. In this
respect, Earthwatch casts a rather large net and the result is likely to increase the sort of experiences that
volunteers might bring with them. Overall, field research is one of the best ways to bring people together from
diverse backgrounds. Facilitating communication among diverse peoples can only have positive results. Clearly,
this is one of the central pillars of the Earthwatch Program and is why we believe it will be successful with our
field research activities.
Collaborating Organizations
The primary collaborating institutions include the St. George Island Tribal Government through their Island
Sentinel Program and the St. George Island Institute.
The Island Sentinel Program has expressed a positive willingness to have Earthwatch volunteers directly
participate in their monitoring activities, should time and weather allow. These include vegetation plot analysis
which monitors reindeer impact on the tundra and area usage of endangered Steller sea lions. Please refer to
Section 2, Objective 4 above.
The St. George Institute is a locally-based nonprofit organization founded and operated by the St. George
Traditional Council and Karin Holser, one of the Earthwatch Scientists on this project. The organization exists to
facilitate the gathering and dissemination of local ecological knowledge and will organize the Earthwatch
volunteers at the local level.
Dissemination of Results
We plan to publish our findings in the peer-reviewed scientific literature in journals such as Mammalogy, Journal
Zoology London, Marine Mammal Science, and the Canadian Journal of Zoology or Marine Ecology Progress Series. We
publish preliminary findings and short notes in the National Marine Fisheries Service Technical Journal Fur Seal
Investigations. In addition, professional presentations (spoken and poster formats) are regularly given at scientific
meetings such as the Biennial Marine Mammal Conference and the annual Alaska Marine Science Symposium.
Public and academic presentations are also regularly given by Dr. Insley.
LITERATURE CITED
Baba, N., Kiyota, and K. Yoshida. 1991. Relationship between whisker color and age of northern fur seals
(Callorhinus ursinus) collected in the western North Pacific and Okhotsk Sea. Document submitted to the
Annual Meeting of the International North Pacific Fisheries Commission, Tokyo, Japan, October, 1991.
National Research Institute of Far Seas Fisheries, Shimizu, 7 p.
Boyd, P.W. and Doney, S.C. 2002. Modeling regional responses by marine pelagic ecosystems to global climate
change. Geophysical Research Letters 29(16):1806.
Boyd, I.L. and Murray, A.W.A. 2001. Monitoring a marine ecosystem using responses of upper trophic level
predators. Journal of Animal Ecology 70: 747-760.
Craig, Allison M. Reproduction in the female fur seal Callorhinus ursinus (Linn.). M.S., University of British
Columbia, 1966. 116p.
Daniel, L. 2002. Draft Pribilof Islands Site Conservation Plan. World Wildlife Fund Bering Sea Ecoregion Program.
Anchorage, Alaska.
DeMaster, D.P., Trites, A.W., Clapham, P., Mizroch, S., Wade, P., Small, R.J. and Ver Hoef, J. 2006. The sequential
megafaunal collapse hypothesis: Testing with existing data. Progress in Oceanography 68: 329–342.
Gentry, R.L. 1998. Behavior and ecology of the northern fur seal. Princeton Univ. Press, New Jersey. 392 p.
Goodman, D., M. Mangel, G. Parkes, T. Quinn, V. Restrepo, T. Smith and K. Stokes. 2002. Scientific review of the
harvest strategy currently used in the BSAI and GOA groundfish fishery management plans. North Pacific
Fishery Management Council, 605 West 4th Ave., Suite 306, Anchorage, AK 99501.
31

Holmes, E. E., and A. E. York. 2003. Using Age Structure to Detect Impacts on Threatened Populations: a Case
Study with Steller Sea Lions. Conservation Biology 17:1794-1806.
Insley, S.J. 2000. Long-term vocal recognition in the northern fur seal. Nature, 406: 404-405.
Insley, S.J., Phillips, A. and Charrier, I. 2003. A review of social recognition behavior in pinnipeds. In, Aquatic
Mammals, Special Issue (ed. R. Schusterman and S. van Parijs), 29: 181-201.
Kiyota, M., and C. W. Fowler. 1994. Surveys of entanglement among adult female northern fur seals, 1991-1992.
Pages 90-99 in E. H. Sinclair, editor. Fur Seal Investigations, 1992. U.S. Department of Commerce, Seattle.
National Research Council. 1996. The Bering Sea Ecosystem. National Academy Press, Washington, D.C.
Lunn, N.J., Boyd, I.L. and Croxall, J.P. 1994. Reproductive performance of female Antarctic fur seals: the influence
of age, breeding experience, environmental variation and individual quality. Journal of Animal Ecology 63:
827-840.
Scheffer, VB, 1962. Pelage and surface topography of the northern fur seal. US Fish and Wildlife Service, N.
American Fauna No. 64.
Springer, A.M., J.A. Estes, G.B. van Vliet, T.M. Williams, D.F. Doak, E.M. Danner, K.A. Forney, and B. Pfister.
2003. Sequential megafaunal collapse in the North Pacific ocean: an ongoing legacy of industrial whaling?
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100: 12,223-12,228.
Stepetin, C. M., S. M. Zacharof, B. W. Robson, and M. Kiyota. 2000. Northern fur seal entanglement studies: St.
Paul and St. George Islands, 1998. Pages 33-54 in B. W. Robson, editor. Fur Seal Investigations, 1998. U.S.
Department of Commerce, Seattle.
Towell, R. T., R.R. Ream, and A.E. York. 2006. Decline in northern fur seal (Callorhinus ursinus) pup production
on the Pribilof Islands. Mar. Mamm. Sci.
Vladimirov, V. A., and V. S. Nikulin. 1993. Preliminary investigation of age-sex structure of northern fur seals on
the Pribilof Islands, 1991. Pages 61-73 In E. H. Sinclair (ed.) Fur Seal Investigations, 1991. U.S. Department of
Commerce NOAA Technical Memorandum NMFS-AFSC-24.
York, A. E., and P. Kozloff. 1987. On the estimation of numbers of northern fur seal, Callorhinus ursinus, pups
born on St. Paul Island, 1980-1986. Fish Bulletin 85:367-375.
32

Earthwatch Institute Policies &
Participant Rights and Responsibilities
(Revised October 10, 2008)
This document contains important information concerning Earthwatch Institute (EW) policies and Participant rights
and responsibilities for inclusion on an Earthwatch expedition. Please read this document thoroughly and sign and
return the release forms that have been provided to you (either online or by mail from your regional Earthwatch
office) to indicate that you understand the risks inherent to your expedition and the policies, rights, and
responsibilities enumerated in this document. You will not be permitted to partake in an expedition until
Earthwatch has received the signed release form.
Contents:
1. Consent to Inherent Risks
2. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
3. Sexuality, Sexual Behaviour, and Drug and Alcohol Policies
• Fraternization
• Sexual Harassment
• Drugs
• Alcohol Policy
4. Recreational Time
5. In the Event of an Emergency: “Good Samaritan” Actions
6. Participants and Driving
7. Right of Refusal
8. Removal from an Expedition
9. Responsible Behavior
• Cultural and Community Interactions
• Sustainable Field Practices
1. Consent to Inherent Risks
An Earthwatch expedition can be an enjoyable, enlightening, and potentially life-changing experience, but some
of the characteristics that may make an expedition attractive to you may also put you or your property at risk. All
true expedition work involves a degree of risk which varies from expedition to expedition. The expedition Briefing
describes some of the foreseeable inherent risks involved in the activities that you are choosing to participate in.
You must review and consider these risks carefully before signing and returning the Liability Release and
accepting a Participant position. By signing the Liability Release, you are accepting the potential consequences of
these risks. The conditions present for field research projects, many of which take place in remote areas of the
world, include limited access to emergency and health services and limited or nonexistent communication
facilities or other local infrastructure or services. Participants on Earthwatch Institute expeditions experience the
whole range of climate, terrain and temperature extremes, bivouac living, physical work and other potential
hazards including (but not limited to) political instability, war, transport difficulties and risks such as lack of
vehicular safety standards commonly found in developed countries (for example, the absence of seatbelts) and
increased incidence and severity of vehicular accidents, strikes, sickness, quarantine, natural disasters, wildlife
behaviour and movements and other forces beyond the control of Earthwatch Institute and its associates.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower, Suite 100, Box 75, Maynard MA USA 01754-0075.
US Fax: +1 978 461 2332

2. Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)
It is permissible to share photos, videos, and stories of your expedition with family, friends, local media, and in a
public forum. Sharing your new perspectives and experiences is welcomed and encouraged.
However, please recognize that all information, data, and images shared or gathered during the research portion
of your expedition become the intellectual property of the Principal Investigator (PI). Co-opting or plagiarizing
data, images or information gathered during an expedition for use in a scientific thesis, masters or Ph.D. work, for
profit, or for the academic or business use of a third party without the permission of the PI is strictly prohibited.
Please be aware that data gathered during interviews of local people becomes the intellectual property of the PI.
Principal Investigators have the right to place additional restrictions on your ability to share data or images.
Conversely, a PI may give written permission to use data and images for academic or profitable activity. Please
be sure to ask what is acceptable to the PI.
3. Sexuality, Sexual Behaviour, and Drug and Alcohol Policies
EW does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, ethnicity, sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation, and
respects Participants’ right to privacy. However, Participants must be aware that sexual behaviour and/or open
displays of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity may offend or clash with the sensibilities of local
residents in an expedition’s area of operations, and may even potentially violate local laws.
Further, Participants must remember that their actions have impacts on fellow Participants, on the PI and the
research team, and on local partners, and could, in certain contexts, result in an uncomfortable, hostile and/or
unproductive work environment.
To ensure enjoyable and productive work conditions and smooth relations with local peoples, EW has defined the
following code of conduct. Beyond practicing cultural sensitivity and showing common courtesy, please be mindful
of the following limitations.
Fraternization
PIs, Earthwatch staff, research staff, their colleagues, and their associates are prohibited from becoming
romantically or sexually involved with Participants during the entire duration of the period that the team is in the
field.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment of Participants by the PI, research staff, or EW staff is prohibited. Likewise, sexual
harassment of the PI, research staff, fellow Participants, EW staff, or local peoples by Participants is also
prohibited.
Sexual harassment infringes on an individual’s right to an environment free from unsolicited and unwelcome
sexual overtones or conduct, either verbal or physical. Sexual harassment does not mean occasional
compliments of a socially acceptable nature. Sexual harassment refers to conduct which is offensive, which
harms morale, or which interferes with the effectiveness of EW expedition teams; such conduct is prohibited.
Lewd or vulgar remarks, suggestive comments, displaying derogatory posters, cartoons or drawings, pressure for
dates or sexual favours and unacceptable physical contact or exposure are examples of what can constitute
harassment. No one should be touched in areas that otherwise would be covered by a bathing suit. It is important
to realize that what may not be offensive to you may be offensive to your fellow Participants, the local population,
EW staff members, or the PI.
Any individual who feels subject to sexual harassment or has any knowledge of such behaviour should report it at
once to his or her PI or to EW staff members. All PIs and Field Team Leaders (FTLs) will notify EW immediately
when an accusation of sexual harassment or abuse is made or when such behaviour is witnessed.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower, Suite 100, Box 75, Maynard MA USA 01754-0075.
US Fax: +1 978 461 2332

All reports of sexual harassment will be handled with discretion and will be promptly and thoroughly investigated.
Any Participant who is found to have engaged in conduct constituting sexual harassment will be removed from his
or her expedition.
Drugs
The manufacture, possession, use, purchase and/or sale of illegal drugs as defined by Australia, Japan, the
United Kingdom, the United States and the host country of the expedition, is strictly forbidden while working or
participating on an EW expedition. Prescription drugs may only be purchased and used by the individual indicated
on the prescription, in keeping with the intended-use guidelines and local laws in the area of the expedition.
Alcohol Policy
Participants in EW expeditions must comply with the law of the country in which a project is located regarding the
minimum age required to consume alcohol. In addition, restrictions on the use, possession, sale, or purchase of
alcohol may be set by the PI or Earthwatch staff. Any restrictions on the consumption of alcohol should be clearly
outlined by the project staff in the briefing to participants at the start of the project, and in the expedition briefing.
Local statutes, customs, practices, ordinances, and regulations with regard to the use, possession, sale, or
purchase of alcohol are applicable to all participants in EW expeditions.
Note: Any and all 16-20 year old Participants on Earthwatch Teen Teams or Family Teams are NOT permitted to
consume or possess alcohol, regardless of local law.
Excessive consumption of alcohol by staff or participants is not acceptable on any Earthwatch expedition.
Intoxication can jeopardize personal safety, in addition to the safety of the team. It can also cause delay, and
hinder response in the event of a crisis or emergency situation.
EW staff and the PI have the discretion to remove individuals from the project who consume alcohol in a time and
manner that endangers the safety and/or productivity of the expedition.
4. Recreational Time
Earthwatch has a duty of care for the health and safety of Participants from the rendezvous to the end of the
expedition. For days when no research activities are scheduled, referred to as recreational days, Earthwatch will
offer either a planned team activity or a range of recreational activities that have been vetted and comply with
Earthwatch standards. Participants will also have the option of remaining at the project accommodations to rest.
Participants who are determined to pursue options other than those recommended by the project staff will be
required to sign a release before doing so. If there is a period of time during a regular research day when no
research activities are scheduled, Participants may have the opportunity to leave the project site on their own;
they will be asked to sign out of the project giving their intended destination. Not appearing for the next scheduled
activity will trigger the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) regarding missing people. Earthwatch will determine the
relative safety of Participants leaving the project site on their own at night after work hours. In some cases, due to
local conditions, it may be advisable to restrict Participants to the project accommodations after dark. This will be
clearly communicated in all project materials and reinforced in the on-site safety briefing. However, if the local
conditions are such that Participants can go out at night under their own responsibility there will be a sign-out
process through which participants will state their proposed destination and estimated return time. Participants will
be given 24 hour contact information for field staff should assistance be needed. The sign-out is informational only
and will not be used to enforce a curfew on Participants. Participants should understand that unless contacted for
help, field staff will not start a search for a missing Participant unless they fail to appear the following morning or
for the next scheduled research activity.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower, Suite 100, Box 75, Maynard MA USA 01754-0075.
US Fax: +1 978 461 2332

5. In the Event of an Emergency: Good Samaritan Actions
In the event of emergencies, judgments must be made by PIs, EWI staff, and Participants. While EW makes an
effort to ensure that qualified people make the most informed decisions possible, occasionally first aid must be
administered and other immediate steps taken by expedition participants who are not officially certified to make
these decisions.
Each EW expedition has safety protocols and emergency procedures in place. However, in rare, unforeseeable
emergency situations, EW does not restrict participants (the PI, staff, and Participants) from exercising their best
judgment with regard to their own safety. EW does not restrict ‘‘Good Samaritan’’ actions, or actions taken to
assist fellow participants during emergency situations in the field. However, EW neither encourages nor expects
you to jeopardize your own safety or that of others in attempting to rescue or assist your fellow team members.
6. Participants and Driving
Participants are not allowed to drive project vehicles or aircraft during an expedition. In select circumstances,
Participants may be able to drive boats under direct supervision by project staff. These circumstances are
predetermined by project staff in collaboration with Earthwatch. Participants must respect the restrictions for boat
driving in place for each project.
If a project environment is such that Participants can drive their own vehicles to the rendezvous, those who have
driven themselves to the project may not drive their own vehicles to, from, or for project activities, including the
transport of project equipment.
Participants who have driven themselves to the project may choose to use their own vehicle during recreational
time, but project staff must brief them on the driving restrictions and advise Participants that all driving during
recreational time is done at their own risk.
Participants are actively discouraged from driving other Participants during recreational time. Riding in another
Participant’s vehicle is done at the Participants’ own risk. Riding in other Participants’ vehicles is not covered
under the Participants’ insurance policy for the expedition.
Please be advised that the only exception to the above restrictions is emergency situations.
7. Right of Refusal
EW reserves the right to refuse an applicant’s participation on EW projects. Earthwatch and the project staff may
not refuse a Participant for discriminatory reasons (race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, etc.). Earthwatch will
make every reasonable effort to accommodate participants with disabilities and the organization endeavours to
find appropriate expeditions for those participants who have physical limitations. Refusal of a participant is an
unusual event and is generally due to either an applicant’s failure to meet the health requirements of a particular
expedition, or in the interest of team efficiency.
Project and field staff have the right to refuse special requests, such as media visits (film, photography or print),
special groups or teams (students, donors, etc.), if they conflict with project schedules, safety, research objectives
or general performance of the team.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower, Suite 100, Box 75, Maynard MA USA 01754-0075.
US Fax: +1 978 461 2332

8. Removal from the Expedition
Any Participant found in violation of any of the policies described in this document (“Earthwatch Institute Policies
& Participant Rights and Responsibilities”) is subject to removal from the team. By signing the “Liability Release”
form, participants are indicating that they have read and understand these policies. Removal of a Participant from
a team is at the discretion of the PI and EW staff. In addition, EW will support the right of the scientist to send
Participants away from a project once in the field should their behaviour compromise the safety, research
objectives or general performance of the team, or if the Participant has violated a stated policy.
9. Responsible Behaviour
Cultural and Community Interactions
Earthwatch is committed to working closely with communities. Participants and project staff are encouraged to
engage and interact with local communities wherever possible. Our aim is to support projects which leave a
lasting legacy with local communities and which form partnerships with local organizations.
Being culturally sensitive is important when visiting a foreign country. Patience, good humour, an acceptance of
differences, using common sense, and showing respect will help visitors enjoy cultural differences and make them
part of a rich experience wherever they travel. Participants are often guests of the country and as such are
obliged to consider the culture of the local people and minimize disturbance to their daily routine. Racism and
other forms of prejudice will not be tolerated on any Earthwatch project. After consultation with Earthwatch staff,
Participants who display racist or other discriminatory behavior will be asked to leave the expedition.
Earthwatch stresses the need for responsible behavior and common courtesy when travelling, particularly in rural
areas. When in doubt about what may cause offense when working in areas you are not familiar with, be sure to
ask your PI or Earthwatch field staff. Try wherever possible to learn and respect the local customs and
appropriate dress codes before you join the team as being involved with the local community is one of the rare
privileges of joining an Earthwatch project. Be aware of the natural curiosity that your presence will create and be
mindful not to impose your own cultural beliefs or value systems on the people you meet and the places you visit.
Particular sensitivity is required when it comes to photography and gifts. Earthwatch expeditions feature many
authentic encounters with local communities and the opportunities for photography or video are endless, but it is
important to always ask permission before taking photos. Many local people find being photographed or
videotaped intrusive or even threatening, so always ask your PI or field staff if it would be appropriate. When it
comes to gifts, please ask the advice of the PI or field staff as to the type and value of the gift in order to avoid
any embarrassment or the creation of unrealistic expectations within the community.
Sustainable Field Practices
As an environmental organisation, Earthwatch recognizes our leadership role in conducting activities as
responsible stewards of the social and physical environment and using our resources to promote social and
environmental awareness, local action, and global thinking.
Every attempt should be made to minimize your impact on the environment you are working in. Please avoid
leaving any litter or non-natural waste. Be aware of the risks of fires and follow directions of the field staff when it
comes to camping in order to avoid creating a larger impact than is necessary. Be particularly mindful of using
any rivers, streams or wells as the local communities may be dependent on those as vital sources of drinking
water. When in doubt ask the field staff.
Earthwatch Institute, 3 Clock Tower, Suite 100, Box 75, Maynard MA USA 01754-0075.
US Fax: +1 978 461 2332

Financial Terms & Conditions
G
Some terms and conditions may apply only to volunteers signing up
through the US office; please contact your regional Earthwatch office in
Australia, Japan, the UK, or the US with any questions.
PROJ ECT COST
The price of each project, which we call your contribution, for each
team may vary according to team dates so please check prior to
making your reservation. On average projects range from $700 to
$4,500, excluding airfares (see below).
Through a unique method of funding, 100 percent of your
contribution is used to support research and exploration
sponsored by Earthwatch Institute. By balancing costs across our
program, we are able to assist research that would not be selfsupporting.
Depending on the size and needs of your team,
roughly 50 percent goes to field costs: 34 percent to advance
planning, reconnaissance, team recruitment, and logistical
support: and 16 percent is used for administrative backup,
communications, and post-expedition follow-up.
COSTS NOT INCLUDED
The main additional costs will be your transportation expenses to
and from the rendezvous site, as listed in the expedition guide.
This means that airfares are not covered in the contribution.
Additional costs may include passports, visas, airport taxes, and
the costs of any side trips made during time off from the project.
Some projects have additional in-country travel costs to reach the
project site. Ask your Expedition Coordinator if this is relevant to
your project.
METHOD OF PAYMENT
To hold a space on a team, you must submit a nonrefundable
$300 deposit with your reservation (full
contribution is required if booking under 90 days before
your team fields). The remainder will be solicited through
monthly statements or is payable at any time directly
through your Expedition Coordinator. You can pay major
credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) or
certain securities.
PAYMENT POLICY
Sign up one hundred twenty (120) days or more prior to
team departure: A minimum $300 deposit is required to
reserve a place on a project. The balance of payment is
due one hundred twenty (120) days prior to team
departure.
Sign up between sixty (60) and one hundred nineteen
(119) days prior to team departure: Full contribution
required to reserve a place on a project.
Sign up less than fifty-nine (59) days prior to team
departure: Full payment is required to reserve a place
on a project. As funds must be sent directly to the
project at this stage, the contribution is non-refundable
unless due to Principal Investigator or Earthwatch
Institute (EW) refusal (see Earthwatch Institute Policiesdocument
D). Trip cancellation insurance is
recommended. You are advised to check flight
availability prior to payment.
TRANSFER, CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY
You may transfer from one expedition to another without penalty
Cancellation within 59 days of the expedition start date
up to 120 days before your expedition begins, after which time
will result in 100% of your contribution being retained
our cancellation policy applies.
by Earthwatch. Under no circumstances is a refund
available to those who cancel within 59 days of their
If you cancel more than 120 days prior to your expedition's start
start date. Trip cancellation insurance is available at an
date, Earthwatch will apply the $300 initial deposit either toward
additional cost and is strongly recommended.
another expedition of your choice or to an Expedition Fund.
Note: Any funds retained due to late cancellation are
Cancellation between 60-119 days of the expedition start date
utilized to support expedition field research and will
will result in 50% of your total contribution being retained by
be considered a charitable gift to Earthwatch
Earthwatch. You then have the option to refund the remainder,
Institute.
transfer it to another expedition, or apply it towards your
Expedition Fund.
Earthwatch memberships are non-refundable as they are
considered a charitable gift. Additional donations made beyond
the minimum contribution are also non-refundable and are
considered a charitable gift to Earthwatch Institute.

EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST
This Expedition Briefing
Essential Items
Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary and credit cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the
copies should be packed separately from the original documents
Passport and/or visa (if necessary)
Certification of inoculation (if necessary)
Required Items
Clothing/Footwear for Fieldwork
Long-sleeved shirts
Pants/Trousers
Warm, comfortable pants (e.g. fleece)
Warm sweaters/jacket (e.g. wool and/or fleece jacket)
Durable, waterproof cold-weather outerwear (e.g. Gore-Tex)
Long underwear (top and bottom)
Well-fitting waterproof rubber boots (e.g. Xtra Tuff brand rubber boots)
Warm hat (e.g. head liner hat with face mask)
Warm gloves
Waterproof gloves
Scarf or neck warmer
Warm, thick socks
Clothing/Footwear for Leisure
One set of clothing to keep clean for end of expedition
Light hiking boots or walking shoes
Field Supplies
Small daypack/rucksack
Drybag or plastic sealable bags (good for protecting equipment such as camera from humidity, and water)
Pack cover or poncho for wet days
Good quality binoculars (if you have them)
1

Personal Supplies
Note: All linens (sheets, blankets, pillows) and towels will be provided by the project.
Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos are encouraged)
Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for “washing” hands while in the field)
Personal First Aid kit (e.g. anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics, antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister
covers, etc.) and personal medications
Hand lotion
Miscellaneous
Spending money (see Other Advice/Information in the Before You Leave section)
Camera, film/memory card(s), extra camera battery (if you bring a digital camera, bring your interface cables
for downloading (there is a computer available for this on site)
Optional Items
Slippers to wear in the house (some are available at the house, but you may prefer your own)
Earplugs for light sleepers
Eyeshades for sleeping
Blank CD or DVD for sharing digital photographs at the end of the expedition (some are available)
Travel guide
Books, games, journal, art supplies, etc. for recreational/rest time and travel (there is a small library at the
house along with some board games and decks of cards; additional books/novels are always welcome)
2