 |
AquaRAP
is made possible by the Rufford
Foundation and the Smart Family Foundation
WHAT: Botswana
Aquatic Rapid Assessment Program (AquaRAP) Scientists
will conduct rapid surveys of aquatic organisms, including
fishes, invertebrates, and plants, and will also evaluate
water quality and geomorphology. A few terrestrial groups,
including plants and insects, will also be studied to determine
connections between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
WHERE: Okavango Delta, Botswana, Southern Africa
The Okavango Delta is the world's largest inland delta and
is critical to the survival of both people and wildlife
in drought-prone Africa. The Okavango Delta remains one
of the world's least disturbed wetlands, yet remains one
of the least protected in legal terms. See map.
WHEN: June 6-June 23, 2000
This period is the time of high water levels in the Okavango
Delta.
Itinerary:
June 6-9 Northern
Panhandle
June 9-13 Upper Delta/Guma
Lagoon
June 13-17 Northwestern Moremi
June 17-21 Southeast of Chief's
Island
June 21-23 Prepare preliminary report, press conference,
Maun, Botswana
WHO: International Team of Scientists
Conservation biologists from South Africa, the United States,
Namibia and Botswana, many specializing in southern African
aquatic systems.
WHY: Objectives of the Botswana Expedition:
- To highlight the biodiversity and uniqueness of the Okavango Delta in order to create widespread agreement and enthusiasm among local and national governments, NGOs, multilateral agencies, and communities for its protection.
- To collect and disseminate data on the changes in the aquatic systems of the Okavango Delta over the past 12 years in order to make recommendations for the conservation of aquatic resources, to influence local, national, and international policy, and to contribute to management plans for the region.
- To foster support among local communities, tourism operators, tourists, and scientists by developing monitoring kits for distribution to local schools and tourist camps during the expedition.
|
|
