Volunteer Handbook for Projects Galapagos

San CriSTobal iSland

VolunTeer’S Handbook

updaTed 16TH april 2024

Welcome to the Galapagos Islands

Welcome to this wonderful part of the world. I hope your journey here was smooth and trouble free. Thank you for choosing to volunteer with Projects Abroad. We hope that your experience will be rewarding, and that you will be able to successfully take part in an exchange of knowledge and culture between you and your host-country.

This handbook provides an introduction to Ecuador, and has useful information aimed at assisting you during your stay here. Take some time to familiarise yourself with your handbook: Know what information can be found within each section, so you'll know how to find the necessary information when you're in a rush.

Ecuador is a fascinating country, and by living here as a volunteer you will gain an experience of the culture that you simply couldn’t get as a tourist. By living amongst local people and going to work each day on whichever type of placement you have chosen, you will become an integral part of the community.

Today we are proud of ourselves as our programmes have steadily improved over the years and our partners are constantly asking for more support and help. Firm determination and involvement will enable you to contribute towards our long-term goals.

Ecuador is somewhat different from home! There will be times when you will become frustrated and even infuriated with life here. Projects Abroad staff provide a network of support designed to ease this transition and help you throughout your stay, but we can’t and don’t want to change the fact that things are different from home. Remember: patience and a good sense of humour are the greatest of all virtues in a country where there is a divide between theory and practice. If you are tolerant, respectful, and always remember that you have been welcomed as visitors, you will spend some of the best months of your life here.

Thank you for joining us, and giving up your time to help San Cristobal Island, our community, and our fauna and flora. We hope you enjoy your time with us in the Galapagos!

William Puga Vasquez

Background Information and Timeline

Introduction:

To help you to understand the background to and importance of our work, it may be of interest to read information in a timeline showing the development of our volunteer programmes from the 1990s until now.

Year Event

1970s and 1980s

There was massive immigration of people from the mainland because there were no Galapagos immigration laws. They came here to make money from fishing, and there was no environmental awareness at all.

Non-native, invasive species were introduced, such as dogs, cats, rats, goats, and blackberry bushes, endangering local plants and animals.

1990s I became a Galapagos National Park ranger and started to implement programmes to rectify the problems caused in the 70s and 80s. The GNP and the government did not have funds or resources to look after the Galapagos and the areas with introduced species.

Dogs and cats were attacking the iguanas and sea lions, and our native species were in danger. Goats invaded areas in the north, too, along with the invasion of people. Cargo boats bringing in goods caused problems and the whole situation was totally chaotic.

Early 1990s

Local people, and local institutions and authorities here started putting pressure on the government to control immigration, with set rules, make the islands a protected area and only allow people who were born here live here. The government did not have enough money to deal with the areas that were being affected by introduced species.

With the help of European governments, we implemented programmes to control the goats.

1992 I began bringing in friends from the USA to work as volunteers, such as Matt Garlick, Kerry Miller, and Lesley. Mark Chamberlain and I set up the New Era Galapagos Foundation (NEGF), which began teaching children English, and environmental awareness.

1998 The Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre was established by the GNP, with the support of international and local volunteers. to create a breeding centre for endangered giant tortoises. We wanted to improve the areas where they were living, and to save them from the dangers they faced from the goats. There was a specialised breeding programme and eggs were kept in incubators before the baby tortoises were released into special pens in the centre.

A law was passed to stop people coming here to live. People born here or ones who came before 1998 were allowed to stay.

2005 Genesis, the first tortoise bred in the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre was born.

2010 Projects Galapagos Association was set up to continue the work of NEGF. We have had many wonderful volunteers who have been able to establish links with other organisations and help us continue our work.

Many overseas organisations wanted to work with us, but the only one we agreed to work with was Projects Abroad., as it was clearly understood that this is a commitment to support the island and community, and not a way to make money for the organisation. This is why we have the approval and support of the Ecuadorian government and other bodies.

Our results, changes, and progress over the years are what motivate me to continue, even if we have a long way to go. I never thought we would have the results we have had and are having when I started all these years ago. We continue with our machete work, beach, and town clean ups, monitoring birds, sea lions and iguanas, school maintenance, environmental programmes with the children, English teaching, mural painting, and other community development activities. Because of the dedication of our volunteers, San Cristobal is a better place to live in and a beacon for environmental awareness.

We are proud to say:

 We have changed the lives of many people who started studying English years ago and are now leading programmes for the protection of the Galapagos.

 Some have received scholarships to study on the mainland, and abroad, because they have a good knowledge of English.

 We have permanent control of the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre with the amazing result of much greater numbers of tortoises.

 We have increased awareness of conservation and environmental issues.

 We have been able to set up permanent controls over invasive species in different areas of the island, especially helping giant tortoises.

 Data with information about iguanas, sea lions and birds are sent to the GNP.

 Our coastal clean ups help reduce dangers to species. We send data about the sizes of the trash collections to the GNP and international organisations.

 We continue developing an awareness of the importance of protecting the environment in the local community.

 We continue to maintain areas that have been invaded by introduced species.

 Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and El Progreso have many murals painted by our volunteers that promote conservation awareness.

In conclusion, it is thanks to our children, their parents, our community, the municipality, Galapagos National Park officials and rangers, Projects Abroad, Team Seas, Galapagos Conservancy, and our thousands of volunteers that we are able to continue our work. It is a privilege for us to have you here and we are very grateful for your dedication, commitment, and hard work. Thank you for helping us continue along the right track, year after year. You will not see results if you are here for a short time, but week by week, month by month, and year by year, results can be seen.

For more information, please visit these websites:

https://issuu.com/projectsgalapagos/docs/new_era_-_march_news_7

https://www.projects-abroad.co.uk/projects/?is-filtered=true

https://issuu.com/dottuta/docs/representative_achievements

https://www.projectsgalapagos.org/

Accommodation Introduction:

Most volunteer live in our Eco-Reserve in the Highlands, about 15 minutes’ drive from the town. All our volunteers share rooms with other people, except for married couples. If we only have a few volunteers, you might be able to have your own room. Occasionally, volunteers will live with host families in town.

General Living Arrangements:

Electricity bills are a constant worry for households. Showers in Ecuador are taken once a day and are quick. Heating water uses up a lot of electricity, so showers tend to have a purely functional purpose. Also, please place toilet paper, sanitary towels, wet wipes, tissues etc. in the bins provided. Do not flush them down the toilet.

Food and Drinking Water:

Ecuador has one of the most varied native cuisines in South America. Ceviche (raw fish marinated in a tart lemon juice), asado (beef, pork, or chicken on a BBQ with beans and rice) and arroz con pollo (chicken fried rice) are a must. You will also find potatoes, pasta and rice often appearing on the same plate rather frequently.

Please let your host family or the Eco-Reserve housemother know well in advance if you will not be in for dinner or lunch as they often start preparing the food very early. They are happy to accommodate any preferences, such as if you have a favourite dish, or if you want to cook. Families and the Eco-reserve will provide you with boiled, purified, or bottled water. Freely help yourself to this; you should be drinking lots of water in this climate.

Laundry:

Laundry days at the Eco-reserve are Wednesday and Saturday. In order to buy soap and other laundry material, you must pay $2 for every laundry wash. You will be able to pick up your laundry at the end of the day on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Times for Meals at Eco-Reserve:

Accommodation and Safety Guidelines:

It is our responsibility to make sure you are safe here. You came here as a volunteer and committed yourself to volunteering. We work with the government and our prestige is very high. You receive an official government certificate to say you are a volunteer. Even although you are over 18, we have an 11pm curfew during the week. We do not allow you to have friends from town visiting the reserve. If you have a relationship with someone here, we are responsible for your safety. There are some issues with drug problems on the island. If you are involved with them, it will bring down our reputation and destroy our standing in the community, and you will be asked to leave the island. The work of our volunteers has resulted in the Ecuadorian government, municipality, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Social Affairs, Ministry of Labour and Galapagos National Park officials entrusting us with education and conservation projects, so if one volunteer behaves in a way that damages our reputation, we may lose our contracts with these institutions.

You represent Projects Abroad and your own country here, so you have huge responsibilities, too. Therefore, we hope you understand that your work helps us to continue our hard work that has been going on for many years and enables the conservation of the Galapagos and community development. We have fixed rules and regulations that must be followed. We have a curfew during the work week, from Sunday to Thursday night, so that you must be home before 11pm. Please respect the fact that other volunteers want to rest and be physically ready to work hard the next day. Work can be tough when working on our care, education, and conservation programmes. On Friday and Saturday nights, you can go to discos and bars, but we expect you to come home before 3am. If you need a taxi, you must arrange the pick up in advance. At that time there may only be taxis at the local discos and prices will be higher than usual. William will be able to order one for you before you go out, if you ask him to.

Notes:

 Tap water is safe for brushing your teeth or taking a shower, but not for drinking. Drinking water will be provided.

 Do not bring any local friends to the Eco-Reserve.

 Do not spend nights in local friends’ houses.

 Be careful when you go to private parties in people’s homes.

 Do not bring or consume alcoholic beverages in the Eco-Reserve.

 The host family and Eco-Reserve’s responsibilities are to provide 3 meals a day. If you want snacks, that is your responsibility.

 There is a no smoking policy inside the rooms or in communal areas at the Eco-Reserve.

 If you’re not having a meal at your accommodation, please inform the host family or the cook at the reserve.

 Do not flush toilet paper, wipes, tissues, etc. down toilets. Please put them in a rubbish bin.

 Recycle your rubbish in the correct bin.

 Wear gloves for manual labour to avoid blisters and thorns.

 Please return all tools to the workshop after use.

 All boots and shoes should be cleaned at the end of the working day and left in the proper area

 All areas must remain clean for your own health and to avoid the concentration of cockroaches and other insects

 If you feel ill, please let us know straight away as we can often help you before you become worse.

 Please close the gates by the main road when you come in.

 If you feel ill, please let William know. He can help with buying medicine and/or visiting a doctor, clinic, or hospital.

 You may be offered paid teaching or other work by local people who have no connection with Projects Abroad. While this may seem like a useful way of spending some of your free time, it is illegal.

 Work codes should always be followed, and your agreed work hours should be honoured.

 If you have any problems with your placement, please inform William.

Disciplinary Procedures:

In the event of unacceptable behaviour, disciplinary procedures will be launched. You will receive a verbal warning and/or written warning clearly spelling out the problem and explaining that you will be given another chance to alter your behaviour. If the problem still stands, further action will be taken. Eventually this could result in expulsion from your placement, and possible repatriation. In this case, you will be allowed to remain in your accommodation until new travel arrangements can be made.

Any volunteer found using illegal drugs whilst on the programme or during his/her stay, will be immediately asked to leave. If you read your "Terms and Conditions" document, you will notice that we are perfectly entitled to do this. We are not prepared to jeopardise our institutional reputation for the sake of an individual. Furthermore, please do not be under the illusion that Projects Abroad or indeed the British Embassy can help you if you are arrested for possession of illegal substances. If this happens, you are on your own.

Holiday Entitlement:

You are permitted to take any amount of holiday after your placement, provided you are willing to cover the cost of visa extensions and flight changes, and that you have arranged a suitable insurance policy. You are entitled to two weeks’ holiday as part of your 12-week placement. We recommend you take your 2-week holiday after 10 weeks in country. If you want to take your 2-week holiday partway through your placement, then we will allow this in certain cases.

Required Working Hours

Extending Your Placement Time:

If you wish to extend your placement time, speak to William.

Getting to the Airport:

William will always arrange your transport to the airport at the end of your placement. Simply confirm your return flight details.

Debriefing Questionnaires:

You will be asked to complete a debriefing questionnaire at the end of your project. Please fill it because it helps us to monitor our placements and improve our projects.

Placements

Our volunteers’ work is having a huge impact on the island’s fauna, flora, and community with our projects, which are described in detail below. We have hundreds of volunteers coming to work with us every year, and they work very hard in their placements. You may not see any improvements if you are only here for a short time, but from little acorns, huge oak trees grow. One example is with Otoy plants. Some that were planted last January are now large enough to feed giant tortoises. Some of our students in the Community Centre joined our classes when they were very young, and now have much higher levels of English.

Teaching:

Teaching Programme Mission:

Our teaching programmes mission is to provide sustainable educational support within disadvantaged communities to reduce inequality in education. With the work of our volunteers, we aim to empower underprivileged students by improving their future prospects and equipping them with the skills needed to actively engage in a multi-national community.

Objectives:

 Research and document new learning and teaching aides (flash cards, story books, visual aids, etc.)

 Use creative techniques to help improve the listening and speaking skills of students, e.g. Using repetition, building knowledge of vocabulary and phrases, singing songs and role-playing

 Play songs

 Make teaching fun

 Improve teaching and learning English

Important Notes:

 Conduct the class in English

 Design lesson plans prior to class

 Provide individual attention by listening to each child reading and speaking

 Observe and evaluate students’ performances

 Keep notes about each class and child and document their progress

 Always encourage the children to increase their knowledge

 If you suspect a child is being abused, let William know.

 Please wear smart casual clothes, such as jeans, smart T-shirts, and long shorts to care and education placements, not short shorts and revealing T-shirts. Shoulders and cleavages should be covered.

 Be proactive and seek out work if it is not offered. Your work will be structured around the tasks you are given, but there is always room for flexibility.

 You are free to make suggestions about how the programme may be improved and to develop new courses and worksheets.

 Do not feel nervous if you are not a teacher or TEFL trained. All you need is patience and enthusiasm.

You will be teaching conversational English in schools or becoming involved in community English programmes. You are not expected to be an expert on grammar or literature; your task is to help people speak English. You will normally be asked to teach classes alongside local teachers in schools, and/or you can also lead classes in the community centre’s English programme. However, you may also work with another volunteer. You will be expected to work normal hours (at least twenty contact hours each week) with normal holidays.

The Ecuadorian education system consists of primary schools (up to age 12), secondary schools (up to age 18) and universities. Mostly you will be asked to help in secondary schools, although we do work within community language programmes and summer schools.

The level of English in Ecuadorian schools is basic. You will often find that the English teachers themselves speak only a little English - the level varies from school to school. Many schools do not even have a basic syllabus to follow. In some schools you will act as an assistant to the classroom teacher; in others you will be running the classes. Whichever situation you find yourself in, you will have William’s

support. If you have interests such as art, drama, or music that you are enthusiastic to develop with the students, please let William know.

The office can provide you with materials such as coloured markers, A4 paper and coloured paper. There is a small library of teaching materials, games, worksheets, paper, coloured pencils, crayons, felt tip pens, and books for the children. If you need photocopies or other materials for teaching or care, please let the office staff know the day before you need them. School holidays run from the first of March to the end of April, when the centre runs a summer camp with English, art, and sports classes.

You will have a choice of working in a school or only in the Community Centre, or both. The main focus is on our Community Centre. This is where we provide English classes for local children and teenagers, aged from 6 to 17. You may improve support classes for children who are slow learners by providing one on one support. You will be supported by our local staff. Planning takes place in the afternoon.

1

2 Transportation

3 Age Groups/ Class Sizes

4 Support Staff

On foot or by bicycle, or by taxi if you are running late. Everything is within 15 minutes’ walk from town accommodation, or about 20 minutes in a taxi from the Eco-Reserve.

Children aged from 6 - 16 years. Class sizes: 15 - 25 children.

Our staff will provide permanent support and you will have extra resources such as art materials and other items available from the Community Centre.

On foot or by bicycle, or by taxi if you are running late. Everything is within 15 minutes’ walk from your accommodation, or about 20 minutes in a taxi from the Eco-Reserve.

Children aged from 6 - 16 years. Class sizes: 15 - 25 children.

Our staff will provide permanent support and you will have extra resources such as art materials. You will also have access to a photocopying machine, projector, internet, and a computer.

5 Skills and Experience

6 PRO

No experience is needed. All we need is enthusiasm and dedication to the Project. Spanish is not required, but it does help to have a basic knowledge to communicate with teachers and children.

If you have special skills and experience in teaching such courses, please let William know.

7 Times 7.15 to 12:30 pm.

8 Holidays

William will inform you.

No experience is needed. All we need is enthusiasm and dedication to the Project. Spanish is not required, but it does help to have a basic knowledge to communicate with teachers and children.

If you have special skills and experience in teaching such courses, please let William. You will have the opportunity to assist other volunteers with lesson planning.

2.00 to 6 pm

William will inform you. Classes tend to run all year round, with short breaks between them.

10 Typical Day

You can either sign up for one type or do both. You will teach in the morning and plan lessons in the afternoon.

During vacation time we also run a summer camp, when the local children and youngsters study English in our centre. Summer Camp begins in March and ends in April. If volunteers come before that date, they may help with planning, arranging trips, and preparing materials.

You can either sign up for one type or do both. You will teach in the afternoon and plan lessons in the morning. 11 Behavioural

It is the responsibility of the class teachers and headteacher to deal with behavioural problems.

13 Preparation In consultation with class teacher

14 Curriculum Follows the one set by the school and Ministry of Education.

15 Exams Set by school and Ministry of Education

16 Spanish

You do not need Spanish to teach, but a basic knowledge of the language will be very helpful. You will learn it quickly when you are here.

If you encounter behavioural problems, let William deal with them.

If we have enough volunteers here at one time, 2 or more work in the same classroom. If you have teaching experience and/or feel confident enough, you may have your own class, without another volunteer working with you. If we do not have enough volunteers, you may have your own class, without any other help. If you feel uncomfortable with this, please let William know as soon as possible so that we can combine classes or find other ways to overcome any problems that might arise.

In consultation with other volunteers, if applicable, and William.

Follows the PGC curriculum, which is textbook based. Volunteers are free to use other materials. Students are streamed, but volunteers work at the speed of the individual class, rather than having to finish a set number of units in a set time.

There are entry and exit tests to place students in correct levels.

You do not need Spanish to teach, but a basic knowledge of the language will be very helpful. You will learn it quickly when you are here.

Teachers travelling during their placement means no English lessons for the children! Projects Abroad has a formal agreement with the Ministry of Education which must be honoured. 10 weeks teaching = 2 weeks’ travel. Placements for less time (under 12 weeks) are not entitled to travel time. It is always best to discuss travel periods with William, since there may be an obvious gap in the work schedule which the volunteer may not be aware of, e. g. school holidays, national holidays (feriados), the completion of a specific project, etc.

Teaching Tips from Former Volunteer, 2022

How we start the day and successful activities:

 I sometimes wait 3-4 minutes until I start the class because some children are delayed, and it is annoying to have to repeat yourself.

 When I decide to start, I start by saying: “Hello, class” and they answer with “Hello, teacher.”

 We start our day singing the ABC in English (all the way up to group 3). Afterwards, you can ask them: “What day is it today?” and one will answer: “Today is …” Sometimes I go over all seven days with them, so they do not miss any days.

 They all know how to say: “Here” or “Present,” when I take the register.

 ”What is this?” is something they are all very familiar with.

 Something that all the groups love is when you draw something on the whiteboard and ask: “What is this?” They love to guess the answer.

 It is a good tip to have it drawn beforehand in order to save time.

 Children are super visual, so show them as much as you can. Use the whiteboard, use your body, and use the objects in the classroom. The overhead projector works very well.

 They love Hangman and they know what it is as soon as you start drawing _ _ _ _. They can say the letters in English.

 They love repetition and routines.

 “Thank you for today” is how I end the day and they respond “Thank you for today, teacher(s).”

Managing Classes:

 Children are like barometers; Do not show your insecurities. Believe in yourself.

 If the children get overexcited, they respond to “shh” and “SILENCE.”

 If they call you “prof,” you should ask them to say “teacher.”

 Sometimes I will not say: “Thank you for today” until they have been 100% quiet for six seconds. You look at them and you ask for silence. - They ought to know that they must remain quiet before they can leave. Do not reward them until they are silent. This teaches them discipline.

 You need to take control over the class and capture their attention. In return, you must also give them attention.

 Please try to remember their names because it gives you control, and the children feel that they have been recognized. You can also call them out when they are misbehaving.

 Sometimes if you notice that some children distract each other, ask one to move to another seat.

 When they solve exercises, you need to always walk around and watch them. Sit next to the ones who find the work challenging and help them.

 Spot the weak ones and spot the strong ones. They all need your attention.

 If the strong ones want to continue solving tasks, ask them to stop because then they will not have tasks in the future. Always have extra work for them to do.

 I am trying to teach them “teal” and they have difficulties with “black” and “white”. They think “black” is “blanca,” therefore white.

Care:

Introduction:

You may work in one of the kindergartens, assisting with classes of up to twenty-five children aged 3, 4, or 5 years old. Pre-school children in this area have generally not had much educational nurturing from their families, so it is important that they receive lots of help at this stage. You may be helping with cutting, sticking, playing games, and singing songs, and will be working alongside a classroom teacher.

The children that you are working with will not speak English. Whilst you may incorporate English lessons into your programme, the most important aspect is to involve the children with interactive, fun activities. Therefore, one of the best ways to prepare yourself for the project is to learn as much Spanish as possible. You will be communicating in Spanish with the children, so try to learn some key phrases that will be useful. Working with children is one of the best ways to learn more as they won’t have inhibitions, so they will talk to you and expect you to understand.

Care placements provide the opportunity to use your own interests such as sport, art, music, or drama as tools for working with the children. There is no hard and fast rule as to what your role is, so you can develop this yourself, and will probably find that at first you take a more observational role, but you may plan to develop your own projects with the children during the course of your stay. You will have a supervisor working with you at the placement if you need any assistance. We strongly encourage you to let us know your talents and interests as we want to have a wide variety of activities available for the children.

Mission:

Our mission is to provide sustainable educational support, care and protection to children and groups to enhance their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development.

Care Programme Goals:

 Assist teaching with different activities during classes

 Support activities for children with special needs

 Teach basic English vocabulary

 Organize educational, fun games and activities for children

 Make sure the children play safely

 Work with teachers to improve classroom rules and methods of discipline

 Supervise children during breaks and play time

Problem Action

Language barrier

More relaxed attitude towards time

Distracted children and chaotic classrooms

Lack of support from placement staff

Cross-cultural misunderstanding

Learn some basic Spanish

Use body language and gestures to communicate

Be flexible

Present activities in fun, enticing way

Divide class into smaller groups

Communicate and collaborate

Keep cool

Make effort to resolve differences in a sensitive

way

Sports

Sport is extremely popular and there are many children wishing to participate, but due to a lack of resources, opportunities are limited. Whatever your skills, with energy and enthusiasm you can coach the sport you love or help with a range of games and general fitness sessions. Volunteers are involved with coaching basketball or football in addition to planning training sessions, with the ultimate goal of improving general fitness, techniques, and team involvement.

Emphasis is placed on enjoyment and participation; the students attending these sports clubs have a real passion for playing sports, especially football. Your role, therefore, will be to help make sure the fun and enthusiasm continues. As a foreigner your very presence will help make each training session enjoyable. The training sessions are held in the afternoons, so many volunteers choose to combine this project with a care or teaching project.

Creative Arts Project

Depending on where your talents and interests lie, as a volunteer you can become involved and focus on one or more of the following areas:

No Topic Activity

1 Art Teaching the local children and teenagers art including painting, and drawing, and working with recycled materials.

2 Murals Painting educational murals on the outside walls of local schools.

3 Dance Teaching the children and teenagers different dance techniques.

4 Acting Developing the acting abilities of the local community and encourage them to speak English through role playing while learning English. You can also help write scripts and direct short plays and sketches.

5 Music Teaching children and teenagers how to play different musical instruments, e. g. guitar and piano, and teaching singing.

Galapagos Conservation Projects

Conservation volunteers are based in the town of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno and will have the unique opportunity of becoming involved in a wide range of activities. You will contribute to the conservation and preservation of these unique and abundant marine and terrestrial ecosystems through much needed research and practical hands-on work.

One of our main responsibilities is also machete work, which means cutting down invasive species such as blackberry bushes and other types of introduced plants that have damaged the Galapagos Islands’ wildlife since they were brought here by humans. It is very important because we are not allowed to use most chemicals in the Galapagos. We cut down the invasive species manually because they are pushing out the native, endemic plants and animals and are making some of the land unusable for the giant tortoises and birds, so they can’t lay their eggs. Some of the native plants are eaten by the wildlife here, so it is important that they are given a chance to grow. Machete work is hard, is one of our main daily activities, and lasts for at least an hour a day. We understand that this is hard work, but because of our volunteers, we have been able to beat the invasive plants.

Be prepared for hard work and know that you are aiding all the animals and birds here and that we all appreciate your efforts. We have managed to stop the invasive ones from spreading, and because of this the animals and birds are able to thrive. When you are working with machetes, for security reasons, you will be trained to use them by our expert staff, and you will be accompanied and supervised at all times by PA staff and GNP rangers. Always remember your gloves, too, because some of the plants have thorns and can cut your hands.

Habitat restoration work will also play a major role in your work on the island. Projects Abroad has a nursery which focuses on producing indigenous plants which will be introduced throughout the island. Some of your time will be dedicated to eradicating invasive species and replacing them with indigenous ones grown in our nursery or the one belonging to the Galapagos National Park.

The local community plays a very important part in conserving the future of the Galapagos Islands and as a volunteer you may be involved in an education programme designed to deliver the conservation message to the local school children.

We have conservation working tools, such as machetes, picks, a chainsaw, a grass cutter, strimmers, shovels, a wheelbarrow, and a machete sharpener in the Eco-Reserve workshop.

A typical week’s work for a volunteer may include:

Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

This centre run by the Galapagos National Park Agency is the only protected haven on the island where the giant tortoises, endemic to the Galapagos, are kept safe and bred. Volunteers help with the upkeep of the centre by feeding the animals, cleaning their pools, removing invasive plant species. A second role you will help with is the cultivation and maintenance of different areas which Projects Abroad has been responsible for since 2014. This land produces the Otoy plant which is the tortoises’ staple diet and the aim is to reduce the cost of the centre for the agency by making it self-sufficient in the production of the plant.

Galapagos Petrel Protection:

The Galapagos Petrel is an endangered sea bird that is endemic to the Galapagos and on the UICN Red List. This bird is unique and builds its nest in specific habitats dominated by native Miconia plants. However, the arrival of man has led to the introduction of invasive species such as the blackberry and guava tree. These are outcompeting the Miconia plants and a second intruder, the black rat, is destroying nests and feeding on eggs and chicks. Volunteers have helped to eradicate these species and by

monitoring the nests, have assessed the success of our work and the birds’ behaviour within the bird colonies.

Sea Lion Monitoring:

Sea lion monitoring is separated into two parallel studies. The has been running since 2013 and involves monitoring the populations of sea lions in and around the area of Puerto Baquerizo Moreno. We collect data about population numbers, sex ratios and breeding from several different beaches as we study the long-term dynamics of the resident populations.

Invasive Plant Removal:

You will be working on the elimination and control of introduced plants, such as blackberry, guava and supirrosa, in the protected areas located on the upper part of the island. These areas such as Laguna del Junco, Cerro San Joaquin, La Comuna, the Tortoise Breeding centre and Cerro Colorado are in need of our help as these plants are altering the ecosystems of the Galapagos and displacing species of endemic plants like miconia, which are competing for food, light, nutrients and geographical space.

Plant Nursery:

Removal of invasive plants is essential work, but we must also help in the reforestation of endemic species. The activities include collecting soil to mix with compost, collecting seeds and small plants to bring to the nursery and cultivating the saplings for future planting. We are working with many endemic species but are concentrating on mangrove trees which are essential to the coastal regions of the island. There are two nurseries, one run by the GNP beside the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, and the other is being developed at the Eco-Reserve.

Beach and Town Clean Ups:

You will be involved in coastal cleaning along the main beaches people frequent. The goals are to keep these areas free of garbage and ensure that the resident species are less likely to die because of contact with dangerous rubbish. These include Playa Mann, Loberia, Carola, and Puerto Chino, as well as PMB, El Progreso, and the main road between PMB and El Progreso.

Marine Iguana Surveys:

As with the sea lions, it is important to monitor and study the populations of the unique marine iguana on the islands. Transects are walked and data collected on population numbers, sex ratios and population dynamics. Over time we will be able to assess the health of the marine iguana populations and evaluate their reproductive success.

Bird Surveys:

Cerro Colorado is an area where we have been working since 2013 to remove invasive species and reforest endemic ones. By studying the bird populations, we can evaluate if the change in flora is encouraging the return of endemic bird species. The sea bird census is designed to study population numbers, nesting sites and migratory visitors.

Environmental Education Programme:

You may be involved in preparing and presenting workshops about conservation awareness in the local schools and community centres. It is important that you help and become an inspiration for the people of the island to learn about conservation and the importance of preserving their unique home.

As a volunteer, you will be working alongside the Galapagos National Park authorities and our Conservation Coordinator. They will guide and train you in the specific work and techniques used in the project. Volunteers usually work from Monday to Friday and occasionally on a Saturday morning.

Conservation Report from October to November 2022

No Location Activities

1 Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

1. Control of highly aggressive introduced plant species such as Mora (Rubbus nuvius), guava (Psidium guajava L.) and Supirrosa (Lantana camera) in areas where giant tortoises are nesting at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre. It is important to keep the area free of introduced plants to make it easier to locate the nests and collect eggs, and so there will be more room for endemic plants to grow in this protected area.

2. Feed the tortoises and clean the pools where they drink water, and the platforms where the reptiles feed

3. To help the tortoises’ diet, we have worked in the forest area of the Galapagos National Park (GNP), performing controls of Mulberry bushes to plant Otoy (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) which is part of their diet, so they will have enough food. We want to ensure that their food is safe and avoid risks when collecting it.

2 GNP Nursery

3 Rat Control

1. Work in the GNP’s nursery as they are collecting seeds of native plants in the forest, and collecting endemic seedlings such Miconia (Miconia robinsoniana)

2. Work with substrate preparation to fill bags for the seeds and collected seedlings

3. Perform reforestation in areas affected by the introduced plants mentioned above. Miconia seedlings are grown in the nursery to be reforested in El Junco area

1. In the north of the San Cristóbal Island at a height of 450 meters, we performed an activity to control rats. Rattus rattus is affecting the population of the Galápagos petrel, an endemic species that is endangered by the presence of this rodent and other species like cats and introduced plants that block their nesting areas. We have conducted surveys at different nesting sites where we have set traps filled with poison to eliminate the rats and help the bird population to increase satisfactorily. This project is only conducted when the GNP rangers request it.

4 Eco-Reserve Nursery at El Progreso

5 Red Mangrove Reforestation

1. Continue to grow endemic, native plants which will be reforested in town areas and planted at various schools in town

2.

1. Carried out reforestation of red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) on beaches near El Progreso to promote conservation and to send a message to the community about how we can help the environment

No Location 1. Activities

6 Research: Sea Lion, iguana, and bird monitoring,

2. For more data on the population of sea lions, marine iguanas and endemic birds that exist on the beaches near the port, we have performed different monitoring activities to gather information to show what is happening with the population of these animals which are endangered by the presence of humans and introduced animals, such as dogs and cats.

3. It is important to perform these activities to understand the dynamics of the populations to see if they are growing or shrinking

4. We are helping to create a database of the various populations of birds we have in different places to find the abundance of each species.

5. The data are very important since they disclose information that can help us undertake corrective actions to help formulate decisions regarding the conservation of endemic island species. Our reports are sent to the GNP.

7 Coastal Clean ups

1. Aiding the GNP’s work in various coastal clean ups, we are responsible for collecting garbage from strategically defined areas where there is a high concentration of oceanic garbage and where we find populations of endemic fauna.

2. We are helping to create a database to know how much trash we produce and have on the island.

3. We help the conservation of fragile island ecosystems and promote the conservation of the natural resources we have here.

4. Our reports are sent to Team Seas, an international organisation that is monitioring the trash collected from oceans around the world.

8 Objectives Achieved:

1. The health of tortoises was monitored in nesting areas with introduced plants was monitored.

2. Planted 500 Otoy plants to have enough food for next year.

2. Dug 500 holes, ready for planting Otoy seedlings in the coming weeks.

3. Gathered seeds and seedlings to germinate and perform reforestation

4. Cleared beaches which had debris and garbage that may affect animals.

5. Areas with introduced plants were reforested with native plants.

6. Collected data about different populations of endangered endemic animals

Medical and Safety Procedures

Specific Medical Concerns in Ecuador:

. Water: Tap water in Ecuador is not safe to drink, but since 2014 the Municipality has established a water treatment system, which means it is safe to brush your teeth or take a shower and eventually it will be 100% safe to drink. However, your host family will provide you with ample drinking water, and most shops sell bottled water.

Dehydration: The sun in Ecuador can be incredibly strong. This means that you will lose far more water through perspiration than you would in a cooler climate, so dehydration is a real risk. Ensure you carry drinking water with you at all times. Obvious symptoms of dehydration are not needing to urinate or dark coloured urine (this should be seen as a danger sign in hot climates), feeling faint, tiredness, headaches, feeling sick and a lack of coordination. It can come on quickly without your realising you are becoming dehydrated and can develop into a very serious condition within hours if not treated. Treatment for mild dehydration is simply to drink lots of water, ideally mixed with re-hydrating salts. Coca Cola that has been left to go flat is an effective re-hydrating fluid when specially prepared salts are not available. More serious dehydration requires medical attention, and an intravenous fluid supply. The biggest risk of dehydration is when you are ill; diarrhoea, vomiting and excessive sweating cause you to lose water very rapidly, and you may not feel like drinking a lot. For this reason, what would otherwise have been a relatively minor sickness often ends up requiring hospitalisation to replace lost fluids through an IV drip. The simple answer is to force yourself to drink plenty of water as often as possible when you are feeling ill.

Please contact William if you need medical attention. He is available 24-hours a day during emergencies.

If you want to shorten your stay because of health reasons, you must contact the insurance company while you are still in the country. If you return to your home country before contacting it, your claim might be rejected.

General Safety and Security:

We recommend that you keep your valuables such as your passport, flight ticket, and cash in your room when you do not need them (ideally in your bag which is locked with your own padlock). Carry the Projects Abroad card that William has given you with his contact details and your passport number. In an emergency, contact William on +593 (0) 96-823-6167 If you have problems of any kind, whether they are personal or at your accommodation or placement or with another volunteer, for example, please let William know.

Money

The currency in Ecuador is the US dollar. Large notes such as U$100 can be a real problem since most small shop owners and taxi drivers will not be able to change them for you. It is best if you bring small denominations with you. ATMs accepting Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Maestro, and Switch are widespread in Ecuador. San Cristobal Island has 3. Please note that the ATMs in San Cristobal only accept cards that have a chip and pin.

Communications

Post:

There is no government mail system on the island, so people depend on DHL if they want to send or receive mail. If all the fees are paid in the country from which the parcel is being sent, there is normally no problem in sending it to San Cristobal Island. If you use DHL to receive mail, use this address. William Puga, San Cristobal Island, Galapagos, 200150, Ecuador.

Telephone:

The international dialling code for Ecuador is +593. If someone is calling from overseas, he or she should first dial this code, and then the full number minus the first zero. For example, to call the Ecuadorian number 05 2520745 from overseas, you would dial +593 5 2520745. The same principal applies when calling from Ecuador to another country. Some useful codes are:

If you want to call Projects Abroad in the UK from Ecuador, you dial +44 1903 708300.

People use WhatsApp for sending messages and calling in the Galapagos. All calls and messages are free, and you will be part of the volunteers’ WhatsApp group. Many volunteers bring their mobile phones (unlocked) with them from home. Local SIM cards for your mobile phone can be obtained at a cost of U$15, but they are not as cheap as other local methods when calling home. They are, however, MUCH cheaper than using your British SIM card, which will likely charge you to send and receive text messages.

Thanks to our volunteers, this is where the money goes in the Galapagos

1 Education:

A. Schools and Care Centres:

 Provide extra resources and materials to help teaching

 Provide scholarships for teenagers to study abroad

 Support education by providing volunteers and resources

 Establish and renovate playgrounds

 Paint classrooms

 Decorate walls with murals

B. Projects Galapagos Community Centre:

 Provide English classes to more than 60 children, free of cost

 Provides all materials for all projects

C. Summer Camp:

 Run summer camp for approximately 100 children and teenagers every year

 Provide trips and extra-curricular activities

D. Care Project:

 Provide volunteers to support staff

 Give personal attention to children

 Provide resources and materials

2. Conservation:

A. Support Galapagos National Park

 Provide fuel for Galapagos National Park transportation when needed

 Cover all transportation services to various work areas

 Develop Conservation Projects:

 Provide necessary for petrel conservation project, so number of petrels

 has increased

 G Help monitor and protect sea lions and iguanas

 H Help clear invasive species and grow and plant endemic plants

B. Support Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre:

 Clear living areas

 Find Otoy for tortoises

 Help protect them

 Work in GNP nursery

3. Help Local Community:

 Provide employment for locals

 Provide social activities

 Provide extra incomes for local host families

 Provide extra income for tour companies

Background Information about Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

Brief History:

Ecuador is famous for its natural biodiversity and playing host to one of the world’s greatest natural heritage sites: The Galapagos Islands. However, the excitement doesn’t begin and end there. Ecuador is a country of great contrasts, a place of extremes, jungles, snow-peaks, the Andes, the Amazon, great wealth and grinding poverty. Nowhere else in South America will you find a country which offers such delights and fascinating travel opportunities.

The history of Ecuador extends over a 9,000-year period. During this time a variety of cultures and territories influenced what has become the Republic of Ecuador. The history can be divided into five eras: Pre-Columbian, the Conquest, the Colonial Period, the War of Independence, and the Republican Era. The beginning of its history is represented by a variety of cultures and finishes with the Incan invasion. The Incas were followed closely by the arrival of the conquistadors, the Spanish conquerors. The Spanish founded modern-day Quito and Guayaquil as part of the political-administration era which lasted until the war of Independence, the rise of Gran Colombia and Simon Bolivar, to the final separation of his vision into what is known today as the Republic of Ecuador.

Geography:

Ecuador is divided into three continental regions: the Costa (coast), Sierra (mountains), and Oriente (east), and one insular region, the Galapagos Islands (officially Archipelago de Colon). The continental regions extend the length of the country from north to south and are separated by the Andes Mountains.

Regionalism:

 Regional differences manifest themselves in the way people dress, their physical appearance, language, and family name.

 The people from the Sierra ("Serranos") and the people from the Costa ("Costenos") display the most pronounced regionalism.

 The Sierra is the heartland of Ecuador's indigenous culture.

 The oldest cultures of America lived on the Ecuadorian coast. Three cultures still exist: The Aws, the Chachis or Cayapas and the Tsachilas or Colorados.

 The Roman Catholic Church has a strong influence on personal and social behaviour is part of national identity.

 Most holidays and celebrations are based on Christian festivals. The Church is wrapped up with the process of government.

 Indigenous Ecuadorians, while nominally Catholic, tend to blend Catholicism with their traditional beliefs.

Galapagos Islands:

The Galapagos Islands are located 1,000 km. west of the Ecuadorian coast and are noted for their association with Charles Darwin, whose observation of animals here during the voyage of the Beagle led to his formation of the theory of natural selection as a means of evolution. It is also very important for you to know the rules that are held by the Galapagos National Park in their protected areas.

La Costa (Coast):

The western coastal area of Ecuador, bordering the Pacific Ocean, rises from the coastal plain, with many mangrove trees, tropical, dry and wet forests and farmlands, to the foothills of the Andes Mountains to the east; there are also many banana, cacao and coffee plantations. Guayaquil, located on the southern part of the coast, is the biggest city in the country. On the north coast, the port of Balao in Esmeraldas is used for exporting oil and the port of Manta is used by the United States Air Force as a control point for narcotics traffic control.

La Sierra (Highlands):

The central belt of Ecuador includes the Andes Mountains, inland from the coast, with volcanoes and mountain peaks that sport year-round snow on the equator, many areas long since deforested by agriculture, a number of cut-flower growing operations and cloud forest zones at a certain altitude.

The northern Ecuadorian Andes are divided into three parallel cordilleras which run in what is similar to an S-shape from north to south: the western, central (Cordillerra Real) and eastern (Cordillera Occidental) cordilleras. They were formed earlier in the Cenozoic era (the current geological era), as the Nazca Plate has sub-ducted underneath the South American Plate and has raised the mountain range. In the south, the cordilleras are not well defined. Quito, the capital city, is located in a high mountain valley on the foothills of the Pichincha.

The Amazon:

The Amazon is in the east, has many rivers and is home to tropical plant and forests.

People, Customs and Religion:

There were about 17.8 million Ecuadorians in 2020 and the main language is Spanish (Castellano). However, in various parts of the Andes, Quechua is the mother tongue, with Spanish being their second language, if it is spoken at all. The Ecuadorian people are extremely proud of their history and maintain their heritage in folk art in forms such as dance, music, and crafts. Strong communities are also in play in Ecuador, and it is not uncommon to witness a festival of some sort at least once a month, in which all the members of the community come together to celebrate. The majority of Ecuadorians are strong Roman Catholics (over 70%) which stems from the Spanish invasion early in their history. In general, Ecuadorians are extremely friendly and approachable people. When greeting an Ecuadorian, the custom is to kiss them on their right cheek (air kiss), so do not feel alarmed when you first meet an Ecuadorian and they kiss you in the middle of the street. Although Ecuador is now opening up to foreign

Ethnicity:

is Catholic.

Etiquette and Manners:

Meeting and Greeting:

 The most common greeting is a handshake with direct eye contact and a smile.

 While shaking hands, use the appropriate greeting for the time of day: "Buenos dias" (good morning), "Buenas tardes" (good afternoon), or "Buenas noches" (good evening).

 Men embrace and pat each other on the shoulder (called an "abrazo"), and women kiss once on the right cheek.

 Always refer to people by the appropriate honorific title (Senor or Senora) and their surname.

 In general, only close friends or family use first names.

 Once someone uses your first name, it is a sign that you may also do so.

Gift Giving Etiquette:

 Ecuadorians give gifts for birthdays, Christmas, or New Year, and religious events in a person’s life.

 A young girl’s 15th birthday is considered a special date and is much celebrated.

 If invited to an Ecuadorian home, bring flowers, good quality spirits, pastries, imported sweets for the hosts.

 A bouquet of roses is always well received.

 Do not give lilies or marigolds as they are used at funerals.

 Do not give scissors or knives as they indicate you want to sever the relationship.

 If you know the person well, perfume is an excellent gift.

 Gifts are generally opened when received.

Source:

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020). Ecuador - Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette. [online] Available at: https://commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/Ecuador-guide [Accessed 20 May 2023].

Transport

Taxis:

Everything in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is close, but there are 5 taxi co-operatives that are very safe and operate during the day. A taxi-ride within the town costs a standard fee of $2, but, if you call a taxi company to pick you up at a certain place, that will cost extra. A taxi from the Eco-Reserve to town costs $4. William or The Eco-Reserve housemother can book them for you.

Boats:

Travel between islands is by private boat, so if you wish to island hop in your free time, you can buy tickets along the sea front. Prices vary depending on where you wish to go.

Your Leisure Time

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno is a peaceful town, but there are some bars/restaurants you might like to visit. Volunteers living at the Eco-Reserve are usually very sociable and arrange trips and other events.

Place Description

Dancing

Outdoor Pursuits

Shopping

Supermarkets

Waterfront (Malecon)

Trips to other islands

Trips on San Cristobal Island

Surfing

Running

Cycling

Skating

Walking

Bar and Restaurant Hopping

If you want to dance, there are two discotheques in the town. The Island and Neptunus are places which play a mixture of Western and Latin music.

There are numerous local attractions that volunteers can visit in their free time. Activities such as snorkelling and diving are easy to arrange, as are trips to other islands.

There are many souvenir shops along the waterfront

There are several small supermarkets on the island where you can buy both local and imported products.

There are cafes and bars for coffee, snacks or a quiet beer along the waterfront looking out over the ocean. There are many restaurants should you want to eat out, which range from being cheap to very expensive.

It is possible to visit other islands from Santa Cruz on half day, full day, or overnight tours. Trips to other islands such as Isabela can range from $300 to $450 for 2 to 4 days. You can fly from San Cristobal Island or go by boat via Santa Cruz.

Baltra Airport Buses to Baltra from Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island run from 7.30 to 9 am. The bus stop is located near the pier in front of the church. If you want to go after 9, you will have to catch a taxi. The cost is $5 on buses and ranges from $25 to $30 by taxi.

Trips to other islands can range from $300 to $450 for 2 to 4 days. It is also possible to walk or go by taxi to local beaches.

Local beaches are good for surfing. You can rent a surfboard for the time you will be here.

There is a cycling/walking track you can use.

There is a cycling/walking track you can use.

There is a skate park you can use.

Along the seashore and around the island.

There are various types on the island, in the main town.

These were representative prices for tours in March 2023.

Appendix 1: Forest Safety

Manzanillo Tree (Poison apple tree):

The manzanillo tree contains toxins, many of which have not been identified yet. Its sap contains phorbol and other irritants for the skin, which produce allergic dermatitis. It is not advisable to stand under one if it is raining, as it can cause injuries to the smallest contact point if it is touched by a drop of water mixed with its milky sap. It may also cause serious eye irritations if smoke from burning it reaches the eyes.

Machete Work:

When you are working with machetes, for safety reasons, you will be trained to use them by our expert staff, and you will be accompanied and supervised at all times by PA staff and GNP rangers. Always remember your gloves, too, because some of the plants have thorns and can cut your hands.

Precautions:

 NEVER walk in forests alone!

 You must always be with a member of staff, and in your group.

 Always be careful when walking around, as wasps and ants may be hidden in leaves or on the ground.

For more information:

https://www.treehugger.com/why-manchineel-might-be-earths-most-dangerous-tree-4868796

https://www.darwinfoundation.org/en/datazone/checklist?species=450

Appendix 2: Spanish Vocabulary for Conservation 15th May 2023

English Spanish Beach

Be careful

Boots

Breaks

Conservation activities

Forbidden

Gloves

Hat

Insect repellent

Listen

Long sleeves and pants

Paths

Please

Rocks

Sea lions

Shells

Stones

Playa

Tenga cuidado

Botas

Descansos

Actividades de conservación

Está prohibido

Guantes

Sombrero

Repelente de insectos

Escuche

Mangas y pantalones largos

Sendero

Por favor

Rocas

Leones marinos

Conchas

Piedras

Sun Sol

Sun cream

Swimming gear

Too close to you

Water bottle

Wood

Crema solar

Equipo de natación

Se acerquen a ti

Botella de agua

Madera

Appendix 3: Spanish Phrases and Vocabulary for Teaching and Care

Al mismo tiempo At the same time. No tienes que abrirlo You don’t have to open it!

Anda al baño Go to the bathroom. Nunca se sabe You never know.

Antes Before Olvidar Forget

Apúrate Hurry up! Palmada To slap

Aquí tienes Here you are. Papel Paper

A tí mismo Yourself Papel higiénico Toilet paper

Ayúdame Help me Pintar To paint

Borrador Eraser Pinturas Paints

Caminar To walk Pizarra Board

Cartuchera Pencil-case Pon atención Pay attention!

¿Como estás How are you? Por favor Please!

¿Cuantos años tienes How old are you? Que desastre! A mess!

¿De que color What color?

Despacio Slowly

¿Qué es eso? What is it?

¿Que haces/estas hacienda What are you doing?

Después After ¿Que te gusta? What do you like?

¿De verdad Really? Is that so?

Dibujar To draw

Quiero agua I want water.

Quiero hacer pipi/popo I want to pee/poop.

¿Entiendes Do you understand? Rápido Quickly

Es cierto That’s right. Regla Ruler

Escritorio Desk

Esconderse To hide

Escucha Listen!

Esfero Pen

Es mío It’s mine.

Estar sentado To be sitting

Está sucio It`s dirty.

Es tuyo It’s yours.

Exacto Exactly.

Golpear To hit

Guarda todo Put it all away.

Gracias Thanks.

Haz silencio Be quiet!

Hola Hello.

Iremos tú y yo You and I will go.

Jugar To play

Juntos Together

Lápiz Pencil

Levántate Get up!

Papel Paper

¿Lo harás Will you do it?

Lávate las manos Wash your hands

Levanta la mano para hablar. Raise your hand so you can speak.

Listo para irse Ready to go.

Llorar To cry

Mejor Better

Mesa Table

No grites Do not yell!

No juegues así! Do not play like that!

No molestes a tu compañero.

Do not bother your partner.

Sacapuntas Pencil sharpener

Saca tu cartuchera Pencil case.

Saca tu lonchera Lunchbox.

Saca tus colores Your colours.

Sentarse To sit

Siéntate Sit down.

Silencio Be quiet.

Silla Chair

Te dije que lo hicieras I told you to do it.

¿Te gustaría Would you like … ?

Tenga cuidado Careful!

¿Tienes hambre Are you hungry?

¿Tienes sed Are you thirsty?

Ven al frente Come to the front.

Venga Come!

¿Y yo que What about me?

¿Y yo que What about me?

Colours:

Amarillo Yellow

Azul Blue

Blanco White

Gris Gray

Marron/Café Brown

Naranja Orange

Negro Black

Rojo Red

Rosado Pink

Verde Green

Appendix 4: Spanish for Sport

English Spanish English Spanish

Amateur Aficionada, aficionado Out Afuera

Athlete Atleta Pool Piscina

Athletics Atletismo Professional Profesional Race Carrera

Ball Pelota Racquet Raqueta

Balloon Globo Riding Equitación

Basketball Baloncesto Rules Normas/reglas

Beat Vencer/derrotar Run Correr

Coach Entrenador, entrenadora Running shoes Zapatos para correr

Competition Competencia Score Puntaje

Cone Cono Scuba diving Equipo de buceo

Court Corte Second half Segunda Mitad

Cycling Ciclismo Semi final Semifinal

Cyclist Ciclista Score Puntaje

Diver Buceadora, buceador Scuba diving Equipo de buceo

Diving Buceo Second half Segunda Mitad

Equipment Equipo Semi final Semifinal

Event Evento Shorts Bermudas/pantalón corto

Facilities Instalaciones Sponsor Patrocinador/patrocinadora

Field Campo Stadium Estadio

Final Final String Cuerda/soga

First half Primera mitad Surf Surf

Football Fútbol Surfboard Tabla de surf

Footballer Futbolista Sweat Sudor

Football strip Tira de fútbol Swimming Natación

Foul Falta Swimming costume Ropa de baño/ traje de baño

Game Juego Tennis Tenis

Goal Meta Tournament Torneo

Gym Gimnasia Track Pista

Gymnast Gimnasta Train Tren

Half time Medio tiempo Trainers Entrenadores

Hall Sala Trekking Senderismo

Injure Lesionar Trunks Bañador

Jog Empujoncito T-shirt Camiseta

Lose Perder Volleyball Voleibol

Kayak Kayac Warm up Calentamiento

Match Fósforo Weightlifting Halterofilia

Appendix 5: El Progreso Historical Site

Former sugarcane factory

Manuel J. Cobos

At El Progreso we find the oldest architectural evidence of a place where the definitive colonization of San Cristobal Island and the entire Galapagos Archipelago took place. In 2001, the INPC (El Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural) carried out an archaeological survey of the entire area where the sugar mill, the estate house of Manuel J. Cobos, and his ranch house were located, discovered remains and produced an archaeological and architectural report about protecting them. This was delivered in August 2002 to the community of the parish of Manuel J. Cobos and to citizens interested in safeguarding the history and cultural roots of their people.

Subsequently, in 2003, an intervention was carried out in the area, which was authorized by its owners, in order to shore up its dilapidated facades and design trails for tourist and student visits. As a result, on May 31, 2004, a declaration about the former hacienda and sugar mill at El Progreso was published in the Official Gazette No. 345, saying that it as an asset belonging to the cultural heritage of the nation. This means that a piece of San Cristobal belongs to all Ecuadorians because of its historical and cultural importance, and it is our duty to protect and preserve it for future generations.

Source: National Cultural Heritage Institute, Ministry of Culture and Heritage

MANUEL J. COBOS AND HIS TIMES

In early 1879, Manuel Julián Cobos founded his hacienda and sugarcane factory at El Progreso. Its establishment in San Cristóbal took place nearly half a century after the Galápagos Islands were annexed by the Republic of Ecuador on the 12 th February 1832, a period in which several attempts to maintain a permanent colonization process failed. The feat of Cobos, a key figure in the islands’ colonization, is ungratefully remembered because of the tyrannical treatment he gave his workers, because of his character and his obligations to accept the dregs of society that were banished to the islands from prisons on the continent according to the state laws of the time.

It is inappropriate to judge this controversial man based on the criteria of our era, as he was a genuine representative of Ecuadorian landownership at that time. He lived at the same time as that of controversial president Gabriel García Moreno and the first liberation struggles in Ecuador. While the customs and tragic social inequalities of that time are difficult to understand today, or are seen as being primitive, it must not be forgotten that they were the result of the evolutionary development of human thought.

The magnitude of his work on a remote, desert island is surprising. He built an aqueduct that extended for tens of kilometers, and which enabled the cultivation of strains of coffee, sugarcane, and fruit trees, and pastures which extended for nearly 3,000 hectares. This ingenuity, along with modern Scottish machinery installed more than 300 meters above sea level, supplied the whole of Ecuador with sugar for

25 years. Moreover, their ships were the only vessels that periodically and for almost three decades carried the national flag on island waters. To top it all, if his death on January 15 th 1905 had not prevented it, this visionary pioneer would have installed the first steam railroad in Ecuador's history in San Cristóbal. The colonization process he led would also mark the beginning of later developments because since then, a human presence in the Galapagos has never been interrupted.

In 1927, a building was erected by his son-in-law Rogerio Alvarado on the foundations of the original hacienda house of Manuel J. Cobos. This was designed using the classical masonry of the time, with beach sand and the remains of the ground on the old hacienda road used as reinforcements for its structure.

HACIENDAS AND SUGAR MILLS

Between 1830 and 1920, the haciendas of Ecuador were pillars of the national economy. Agricultural production was generated in the provinces of the northern and central Sierra, while, on the other hand, the southern provinces of Cañar and Azuay were dedicated to the textile industry and the manufacture of toquilla straw hats. The haciendas of the coast were projected to reach their maximum growth, sustained by the export of cocoa, the Pepa de Oro.

Similar to the tragic case of the Indians in the Sierra, the humiliating, exploitative treatment of laborers and peasants was common throughout the rest of the country. Thousands of people labored amidst oppression and ill health, without the right to any remuneration because they were never paid with bank bills. This system of financial management led landowners and merchants to assert themselves among the great elites of Ecuador.

The irrational exploitation of wildlife, compulsory religious education, the unhealthy backwardness of the rural areas, and slavery in Ecuador from 1830 until well into the twentieth century, was considered a normal part of the system and its economy. The landowners and the exporting bourgeoisie, supported by autocratic, nepotistic governments, ensured that the events that took place in the Galapagos Islands during that time were no more than a reflection of the feelings of this relationship.

In this way, without exception, the Cosleño landowners created their own currency with a unique value for transactions within their properties. In each hacienda there were stores called “tiendas de raya,” where workers were obliged to buy what they needed to live on. In this context, the vouchers and exchange papers used for wages and buying and selling at Hacienda El Progreso were by no means an isolated case. It was not until 1884, five years after Manuel J. Cobos established himself in the Galapagos, that the sucre appeared as Ecuadorian currency, valid throughout the country and its national territory. Circumstantially, on the remote island of San Cristóbal, the currency minted by Manuel J. Cobos was the only valid one for 25 years for any type of internal and, in fact, regional transactions.Note:

Toquilla straw hat:

A Panama hat, also known as an Ecuadorian hat, a jipijapa hat, or a toquilla straw hat, is a traditional brimmed straw hat of Ecuadorian origin. Traditionally, hats were made from the plaited leaves of the Carludovica palmata plant, known locally as the toquilla palm or jipijapa palm, [1] although it is a palm-like plant rather than a true palm.

Sources: Notice boards at the site of the sugarcane factory in El Progreso.

http://www.numismondo.net/articles/Cobos/Manuel_J_Cobos_Scrip_and_Tokens_Galapagos.pdf

Appendix 6: GNP Rules

1. While visiting the National Park, you must always be accompanied by a certified Galapagos National Park guide.

2. The Galapagos is a unique, fragile environment. Take only photographs and video. Professional shooting needs authorisation from the Galapagos National Park Agency.

3. Please stay within the limits of the walking trails for your safety and that of the flora and fauna.

4. To avoid affecting the wildlife's natural behaviour, please avoid getting closer than two metres to the animals.

5. Camping is only allowed in specific sites. If you wish to camp, you must first obtain a permit from the Galapagos National Park Agency.

6. Help conservation by cooperating with the authorities during their inspection, monitoring, and control duties. Report any anomalies to the Galapagos National Park Agency.

7. Do not introduce foreign organism to the islands as these can have a negative impact on the ecosystems.

8. Please do not buy souvenirs that are made from black coral, sea shells, sea lion teeth, tortoise shell, volcanic rock or endemic wood.

9. Galapagos animals have their own feeding behaviour. Never feed the animals. Feeding them can be detrimental to their health.

10. Galapagos landscapes are beautiful and unique. Do not spoil them by writing or etching on rocks or trees.

11. Do not litter while on the islands. Always dispose of rubbish in a safe and appropriate way.

12. Smoking or making campfires in the National Park areas is forbidden and can cause devastating fires.

13. Fishing is strictly forbidden, except on those boats specifically authorised by the Galapagos National Park Agency for that purpose only.

14. Jet skiing, submarines, water skiing and aerial tourism are all forbidden.

Error: Reference source not found

Error: Reference source not found

Appendix 8: Map of Galapagos Islands and Fauna

Error: Reference source not found

Appendix 9: Galapagos 2018 Conservation Report

Area/Task Task

Otoy Plantation

Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre

Controlling Introduced Plants (lantana kamara)

Coastal Cleaning

Worked on invasive plant control on 90% of 4 hectares owned by plantation.

Planted approx. 100 porotillo plants - tortoises’ alternative food.

Reforested 80 Escalecía pendiculata plants to serve as shade for Otoy plantation.

In addition to feeding, tortoises and cleaning pools, carried out general census of the adults in Breeding Center, providing updated information about number of giant tortoises, which total 172.

Controlled introduced plants in 3 hectares, especially in nesting area of tortoises (Geochelone Chatanensis).

Throughout year on 9 different occasions, collected rubbish on different beaches when means hiking and snorkeling. 7295.3 kgs of waste were divided into 3200 kilos of recyclables and 4095.3 kgs of non-recyclables.

Petrels Identified 142 new Petrel chicks in control sites at Commune, Junco, Gumanquispe Angel, Carmela Palma, El Platano and San Juaquin and identified 32 new nests.

Rat Control

Monitoring Sea Lions

Used 80 kgs of rat poison in the petrel nesting area, decreasing the number of black rats by 50%.

Conducted 2 controls around island to collect data about species, resulting in registration of approximately 2650 individuals.

Collaborated 6 times in cleaning eyes of young pups (trematodes), resulting in 52 being captured for cleaning.

Representative Beach Clean Up Results 2013 to 2022

Error: Reference source not found

The results are sent to Galapagos Conservancy, the Galapagos National Park, and Team Seas.