During the second week of the course, we will travel from
the Rio Bravo Conservation Area to Belize City. From Belize City, we
will take a two hour boat ride to South Water Caye (caye = island). This
island is one of many barrier islands along the barrier reef that lines
the coast of Belize. This location provides us with a unique opportunity
to explore tropical island flora and fauna, many different reef types,
and mangrove forests. As on the mainland during the first week of
the course, a major theme of the second week is to understand
biodiversity and processes that produce and maintain biodiversity. With the help
of your instructors and diving guides, we will learn to identify coral,
aquatic plants, reef fishes and other organisms;
understand the ecological and commercial importance of coral reefs and coastal
mangrove forests; and learn about coral reef and mangrove forest management
. To
do this, students will participate in numerous snorkeling excursions in
different coral reef and off-shore habitats. Students also will
conduct a scientific study in an island or coral reef ecosystem.
Students also
will continue to develop an appreciation of the cultures and history of
Belize.
Students will be exposed to many cultures, peoples, and islanders
while on South Water Caye. Students are given ample time to explore the island
and surrounding aquatic habitats on their own time (as well as time to relax!).
A class photo from the 2002 field course...
A class photo from the 2002 field course...
South Water Caye
is a small (< 15 acres) island, covered in lush vegetation dominated
by coconut palm trees.
A "land's eye" view of the uninhabited landscape of South Water Caye...
A pelican sits on a dock, taking in a spectacular view of a sunset and
storm brewing over the Belizean mainland... 
A view of our
classroom (which also functions as our dining area) on South Water Caye,
as (standing, from left) Leah, Emily, and Jen present the results of
their field research to the class. 
A view of patch
reef habitat...
It's not all
work on South Water Caye... Leah enjoys a some sun and surf during
free time on our last day in Belize.