In the Sabangau Forest (Central Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo) we monitor the behaviour, distribution, density and ecology of orangutans, gibbons and red langur monkeys; survey biodiversity; and monitor changes in forest structure, productivity, regeneration and disturbance in the different peat-swamp forest habitat types. Satellite camps are positioned at sites along the upper Sabangau River where we collect data to assess trends in condition of the forest and its wildlife. The results provide feedback on forest condition, allowing us to report on any issues and assess the effectiveness of our conservation activities. This is a lot of work and we couldn't do it without the help of volunteers. We need people who will thrive in a remote jungle setting in a small camp with simple facilities. In return we offer a challenging, exciting and educational experience of field research and conservation in the Bornean rainforest.
Volunteers gain a wide variety of skills from navigation to field ecology and surveying techniques, to peat-swamp forest restoration approaches. We offer a window into a career in conservation biology and, hopefully an unforgettable experience!
As a volunteer, you will work alongside our field scientists to help collect research data and gain an in-depth understanding of the importance of our field projects. You'll learn about habitat and biodiversity monitoring techniques, as well as a range of forest skills, and participate in discussions related to current issues in ecology and conservation led by our scientists. Asides from the biodiversity research, this programme will also involve cultural exchange with the surrounding community and our education team, and an introduction to our conservation and habitat restoration projects.
Volunteers will assist with some or all of the following long-term research and conservation projects:
- Orangutan and gibbon population density surveys
- Camera trap project
- Invertebrate and vertebrate species surveys such as butterflies, birds and frogs
- Habitat structure and forestry research, which involves establishing and measuring tree plots
- Habitat restoration and reforestation project. Volunteers will help with the seedling nursery potentially including replanting saplings and measuring growth rates.
- Volunteers will go on expedition to a remote forest camp for a week or so, to undertake monitoring of ape populations and other biodiversity.
- Other short-term research projects.
We need intelligent, fit, enthusiastic individuals to join our expeditions and help us collect vital data to support the conservation of Borneo's forests and wildlife. There will be two volunteer groups in 2017:
Group 1: Tuesday 20 June - Monday 31 July
Group 2: Sunday 6 August - Saturday 16 September
The cost to volunteer for six weeks is £1,675. Please note that this does not cover all travel expenses.
We allocate volunteer places on a first-come first-served basis, so it is essential you send your completed application, which you can download from our website (http://www.borneonaturefoundation.org/en/join/volunteers-2017/) as soon as possible.
NB. The fee covers accommodation in Palangka Raya, airport pickup, transport to and from camp, use and maintenance of base camp and facilities (including electricity, food, cooks, equipment and medical supplies), Indonesian field assistants, travel to remote survey sites, visa fees, and a trip to the Borneo Orangutan Survival Foundation (BOS) Orangutan Reintroduction Centre.
The fee also includes an important contribution to the long-term conservation of Borneo Nature Foundation and our partners, University of Palangka Raya, to support Forest Patrol Unit and Firefighting Teams. Costs you will also need to cover include international and internal airfares, and travel insurance. Day-to-day costs are typically small and may include drinks, snacks and souvenirs.
