Voluntary Work
The Hawaii conservation project aims to, mainly, address the issue of invasive, alien species in the Island’s state parks. Run by an island based conservation group, volunteers get involved in preserving the natural beauty of the area by controlling the alien species. The project is funded by various nature organisations.
The work is vitally important for keeping the balance within the delicate island environments – challenging but very worthwhile and fulfilling work.
Hiking is a central element of the project as you must penetrate deep into areas of forest to reach areas where work needs doing. Experienced park guides will accompany you whilst you work on removing weeds from amongst native species. You may also have the opportunity to clear trials, fence in rare plants for their protection as well as general plant care.
As a volunteer you can expect to work between 7 am and 5 pm (with lunch break!) from Monday to Thursday. Hiking is a central element of the project as you must penetrate deep into areas of forest to reach areas where work needs doing.
Experienced park guides will accompany you whilst you work on removing weeds from amongst native species. You may also have the opportunity to clear trials, fence in rare plants for their protection as well as general plant care.
Key Responsibilities:
-
Identifying plants that are native in areas where work is taking place, without damaging them
- Identifying and removing weeds to the benefit of native vegetation
- Experiencing the rough but beautiful terrain through hiking
You may also be involved with supervising local school children and helping them with weeding. The project often has school groups that visit for a few hours on any given day. You will be expected to help pull weeds along with the children. Before you go out in the field with the school children, the project supervisor will check to make sure that you feel comfortable supervising the children and if you would rather not take part in this part of the programme, the project supervisor will happily tailor an alternative activity.
What’s Included in the Programme
- Orientation
- Airport Transfer
- All accommodation during your stay
- Volunteer Project
- £50/68€ Telephone Card
- Full support and assistance from your coordinator throughout your time in Hawaii
- Buddy list of other volunteers before you go
- 24-hour support number and contact at Real Gap for emergencies.
What’s Not Included in the Programme
- All flights
- Meals (approx. £25-£30/34€-41€ per week)
- Travel Insurance
- All items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs, gifts, clothing or car hire
- E-mail or phone charges
- Any excursions over and above your planned itinerary in Hawaii
Prices & Durations
USA Conservation in Hawaii - 4 weeks
£499
USA Conservation in Hawaii - 8 weeks
£749
USA Conservation in Hawaii - 12 weeks
£999
