Help scientists discover the mysteries of Truk Lagoon
Follow in the "fin-steps" of TV presenter and naturalist Kate Humble who has been exploring shipwrecks and marine life in the waters of Truk (aka Chuuk) Lagoon for a three-part BBC series Pacific Abyss.
Truk Lagoon, once an Imperial Japanese Navy base during World War II, contains the wrecks of naval and merchant ships, along with aircraft, sunk there during the last two years of the World War II.
Earthwatch is inviting certified scuba divers to join its expedition Diving WWII Wrecks of Truk Lagoon, the first comprehensive survey of this famous lagoon's historic sites. As an Earthwatch volunteer, you will help marine scientists and archaeologists to document and help protect the lagoon's rich historic and biological heritage. Data gathered will help Micronesia develop conservation plans to preserve the sites. Tasks include surveying the vibrant and colourful marine life and recording information on the decay rates of these haunting wrecks. In recreational time, you will be able to explore the volcanic islands and coral atolls surrounding this astonishing lagoon.
In the first episode of Pacific Abyss, broadcast on Sunday 17th August, Kate, who has also joined an Earthwatch expedition in Ghana, was seen exploring a number of wrecks in the hunt for new species.
She told the Independent newspaper that, "Beneath the waters of Chuuk Lagoon are the wrecks of more than 70 ships and planes, making it a must-visit place for divers...my first dive was on the wreck of a supply ship called the Fujikawa Maru. The most startling thing as we started our descent was the clarity of the water. The deck, 16 metres below, was as visible as if it had been above the surface."
● Diving WWII Wrecks of Truk Lagoon 2008 team dates: October 20-November 1, November 3-15. Cost (13 days): £1,795.
The cost includes training, food, accommodation, medical emergency evacuation and the offsetting of greenhouse gases. It is also a charitable donation which helps to support the research. Flights are extra. Volunteers must be over the age of 18 and scuba-certified, with at least two years' experience diving to 60 feet.
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