THE YAQARA BAY BIODIVERSITY INVENTORY PROJECT (YBBIP)
The team spent three weeks getting the logistic and preparatory work started and meeting with local community leaders and members to gain their support for the project. We found each community to be very understanding, with very good insights into the historical changes that have taken place in fishing practices and fish populations over the past several decades. However, little is known about the areas marine invertebrates.
In addition, we’re reaching out to the local and national communities of Fiji through our “Shallow Water Ecological Education Program” (SWEEP) aimed at Primary and Secondary school teachers in the region. The program runs in conjunction with the Teacher Education Program at Fulton College, Fiji, under the direction of Mr. Brian Hamilton. We’re also producing a “These Are My Oceans” (TAMO) packet for primary and middle school aged students that includes a booklet on marine-related activities and learning, a YBBIP Team Member T-shirt, interactive CD and poster.
