Iracambi Atlantic Rainforest Research Center

  Brazil

• Southern Brazil: 
Rosario da Limeira

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 3-6 months and 7-12 months
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: flexible

Description: Our aim is to make the preservation of the Rainforest more attractive than its destruction.

The rate of destruction in the Atlantic Rainforest - an area of exceptional biodiversity - has continued, despite Government measures. This is due in no small part to the perilous state that many farmers find themselves in.

Working in the Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil, Amigos de Iracambi promotes the development of research at the Iracambi Rainforest Research Centre, with the aim of increasing knowledge about the Atlantic Rainforest and, in particular, broadening knowledge surrounding forest degradation and sustainable development. We are keen to find alternative sources of income to make the rainforest more financially viable - this would ensure it's protection, and the livelihood of those living in it.

Qualifications: The Iracambi Atlantic Rainforest Research and Conservation Center is located in the Atlantic rainforest in the State of Minas Gerais, 7 hours from Rio de Janeiro.

We have a number of ongoing projects:

GIS: Land-use mapping of the forests around Iracambi, with a view to rehabilitation of forest and linking up forest islands and GIS survey database maintenance;

Environmental Education: giving classes to people from the local area - either at Iracambi or at local schools - for this position, you must speak a basic level of Portuguese.

Hydrological Monitoring: collecting samples and data from the hydrologic basin to contibute to on-going monitoring efforts (we provide training, however having a background in hydrology or ecology is extremely helpful)

Trail maintenance: trail clearing and signposting, tree planting and nursery maintenance.

I.T.: we need people who can help maintain and improve our website and networked computer system.

We also have a research centre and are happy for researchers to come and set up a project - either one that fits in with our research priorities of forest restoration, land use planning, income generating alternatives and community engagement; or to work on your own project. In the past we have had people doing research in a number of different areas: flora and fauna, ecosystems, socio-economic research and so on. The Atlantic Rainforest is little studied so there is great potential for original work, and work which can be applied immediately.

Other; we are always willing to consider applications from people who have the time and enthusiasm, but may not - yet - have the skills.

The usual volunteer stay is 3-6 months but this is always negotiable depending on our current projects and availability of accommodation.

Cost in US$: See Below

Volunteers: $550 for the 1st month, $525 for the 2nd month, and $500 for all subsequent months. This includes full board and lodging in shared houses. Housing upgrades (when available) are an additional $100/month.

Does not include liquor, cigarettes or local transport. Volunteers interested in the homestay program may apply upon arrival.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: Adaptable, enthusiastic and energetic: many are high-school leavers taking time off before entering university, others are students taking time out from college. Some professionals taking a break from their jobs come too. Most do not have any previous conservation skills but soon pick them up.

Age Range: over 18

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Brazil Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of 2-4

Application Process Involves:

• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Iracambi Atlantic Rainforest Research Center's Mission Statement: Working with the community to make conservation of the rainforest more attractive than its destruction.

Year Founded: 1999