PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands; Friday, August 7th, 2009 - The annual Junior Park Warden programme hosted by the Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR), sponsored by the Pine Cay Project, is designed to encourage a greater appreciation for the environment within the youth of the Turks and Caicos Islands. The 2009 program lasted for one week in Grand Turk at the Turks and Caicos National Museum beginning on July 13th until July 17th, while in Providenciales, the program took place at the National Environment Centre (NEC) for two weeks from July 20th to July 31st.
During the week of activities, participants were exposed to a variety of topics which ranged from the TCI Protected Area System, environmental research involving areas such as the TCI Turtle Research Project, artificial reef systems, general ecology, invasive species along with scuba diving, kayaking and a host of other environmentally related subject matter.
A number of local entrepreneurs and business operators continue to assist the department in making the programme a success by sharing both their resources and expertise in various areas.
In Grand Turk, the newly opened Conch World enabled the children to learn all about the Queen Conch (Strombus gigas), while Oasis Divers ensured that all the participants had a chance to learn basic scuba diving skills and kayaking. Chukka Caribbean Adventures gave a first class safari tour of the island, and yoga (a new addition to this years programme) taught by Jackie Girotti, allowed the youngsters to learn the value of relaxation by becoming one with the environment. Overall, with the help of museum director Neil Hitch and his staff, the week made for an enjoyable summer educational experience.
Similarly in Provideniciales, Dive Provo and Big Blue Unlimited assisted with basic scuba training and kayaking respectively, while companies such as WIV Cable TV, Tropical Imaging, the Turks and Caicos National Trust and the Tourist Board had representatives present on topics which included journalism, photography, videography, ecology and tourism and the environment. Reef Ball making was made possible with the assistance of marine ecologist Marsha Pardee.
As is customary, all participants who successfully completed the programme received certificates and special prizes in areas of outstanding participation. Both old and newcomers to this years programme were eager to put into practice what they learnt while articulating an interest to participate next year.
With another successful programme completed, the DECR would like to thank all those who continue to work with us towards environmental education and awareness in the TCI. It is hoped that activities such as this will help to foster a future generation that is dedicated to making a difference in the environment.
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