Download DUCAREexpedition2008 - Durham Astronomy Overview

DUCARE expedition 2008
c/o David Murphy
Hatfield College
North Bailey
Durham
DH1 3RQ
June 2008
Address line 1
Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
Dear
,
I am writing on behalf of Durham University Coral Awareness and Research
expedition. This university endorsed project is a two month conservation and
education expedition in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, and involves 10
members of Durham University in affiliation with the Coastal Dynamics Foundation
based in Mactan, Cebu.
Established in 2004, the project monitors coral reef degradation in some of the
most environmentally diverse marine environments worldwide. We are the largest
international contributor to the ‘Reef Check’ system, a vital database which holds
records of some of the most endangered reef areas. Through extensive research dives
over the expedition period in three regions of the Visayan sea, conservation dives and
courtesy calls to local government and businesses with vested interest in marine
ecosystems, we aim to implement a constructive and long-term approach to halting
reef degradation in the Southern Philippines. Additionally, we intend to initiate a
structured eight lesson curriculum in at least three local schools, educating on
essential biological, ecological and conservational aspects to their natural
environment.
Per unit area, reef systems in the Visayan Sea play host to the highest
concentration of marine species worldwide, yet fish stocks remain below 5% of their
previous highs and coral cover reduced to below 0.5% of its coverage less than 50
years ago. Surveys suggest only 5% of Filipino reefs are currently in “excellent
condition”. Local communities’ economic reliance on the reefs has led to widespread
exploitation through over-fishing and collecting for a curio trade fuelled by rising
tourist levels, while destructive fishing practices using dynamite or cyanide are
becoming commonplace. The expedition aims, through biological, social and
anthropological channels, to counteract these worrying trends.
We are currently seeking sponsorship for various aspects of the expedition,
both for funding the actual research process (the cost of precise GPS systems for
accurate and precise data and of dive equipment) and for legacy projects to continue
our influence in the area (university scholarships for local students to study marine
biology, water tanks for remote island communities and patrol boats for protected
marine areas). Any opportunity to promote the expedition, both the 2008 project and
future expeditions, would also be greatly appreciated.
Enclosed with this letter is our promotional flyer giving a brief overview of
the project; we can also provide an extensive expedition proposal upon request, or,
should you have any further queries concerning the expedition, please do not hesitate
to contact the project manager David Murphy ([email protected], or via
the above address). Thank you in advance for your interest in the expedition.
Yours Sincerely,
The DUCARE 2008 team