Considering a trip to Latin America in the near future? Stop by Panama and help out with a cool research project! I am a University of Wyoming doctoral student investigating the impacts of land use on tropical hydrology. My research is through the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute's Agua Salud project http://www.ctfs.si.edu/aguasalud/. One of the main hydrological questions that we ask in the Agua Salud Project is how different land use types influence water quality and quantity in the Panama Canal. This sampling campaign will investigate how hydrological flowpaths differ between pasture, secondary forest, and mature forest at the transition from dry season to wet season. I'm looking for volunteer assistance to collect stream and groundwater samples for water isotope analysis anytime between April 15 – June 11.
For those looking for a scientific adventure, this sampling campaign has it all! Our sampling team will be camping out in a thatched roof hut adjacent to Parque Nacional Soberania, about 1 ½ hour drive from Panama City. We will sample stream water during rain events at three locations. The most distant site is a one-way 90 minute hike on a trail through mature rain forest. This is a great opportunity to experience rural Panamanian culture, learn about hydrology and other ecologic studies at Agua Salud, hang out in the jungle, and catch up on all those books and journal articles you've been meaning to read as we wait for rain. Excellent physical condition, ability to camp without modern amenities, and willingness to work in the rain is a must. There is no compensation apart from a roof (a hammock is recommended) and humble meals cooked over a wood fire. For two years, I served in Peace Corps Panama promoting health and sanitation. I will serve as a guide to local culture and can assist with learning Spanish. I will make it a priority to train all research volunteers on safety and ensure personal health. Panama also offers free healthcare to tourists for their first 30 days in country. http://www.visitpanama.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=731&lang=en<http://www.visitpanama.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=731%E2%8C%A9=en> . For further inquiry, please contact Guy Litt [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
