Estuary Update
Below, we share opportunities for collaboration, volunteering, and training this week, through initiatives and actions planned to benefit the ecosystems of the San Juan Bay Estuary and its communities.
Certification of scientific citizens
Estuario invites you to participate in the following events corresponding to coastal resilience thematic module:
- Elective workshop—Ecological restoration of mangroves using nature- and community-based techniques; Tuesday, March 21, 2023, from 7 pm-8 pm via ZOOM
- Field trip—Planting mangroves; Saturday, March 25, 2023, from 8 am-12 pm at Manglar de Jobos, Isabela
- Elective workshop—Ecological restoration of dunes using nature- and community-based techniques; Tuesday, March 28, 2023, from 7 pm-8 pm via ZOOM
Register today at https://estuario.org/eventos/.
Job/Contract Opportunities
The Estuary is currently undertaking a variety of restoration and conservation projects for the system and its watershed, particularly focusing on coastal resilience and blue/green infrastructure, which will require additional talent. Available opportunities include contracts, jobs, and requests for proposals for interested individuals and/or organizations.
Jobs
Open until restocked
Reporting directly to the CEO, responsible for the efficiency of daily operations, ensuring the effective management and development of the team, the implementation of programs, and quality control and evaluation.
Open until restocked
Responsible for overseeing the effective management and operations of projects funded under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, in compliance with all grant requirements. These projects include, but are not limited to, water quality restoration, blue/green infrastructure, and coastal and climate resilience.
See all the calls for applications at https://estuario.org/avisos/.
Water Quality Day 2023
This March 2023, we have scheduled in-person training workshops. In these workshops, we will inform you about the registration process, monitoring kit, data collection, and everything you need to make your monitoring activity a success. The dates and locations of the workshops are as follows:
Saturday, March 18:
– Inter-American University, Barranquitas Campus, 9:00 am to 10:00 am
– Surfrider Foundation, Rincón, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
– La Plata Reservoir, 9:00 am to 10:00 am
Saturday, March 25:
– Las Salinas Interpretive Center, Cabo Rojo, 9:00 am to 10:00 am
– Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, 9:00 am to 10:00 am
– Ponce Health Sciences University, 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Tuesday, March 28:
– Institute of Environmental Engineers of the College of Engineers and Surveyors of Puerto Rico, 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Register on our portal: https://estuario.org/diadecalidaddeagua/.
Family day out at the County Lagoon Estuarine Nature Reserve
The family day out at the Condado Lagoon Estuarine Nature Reserve is back! On Saturday, April 1, 2023, after Water Quality Day, stop by Jaime Benítez Park and enjoy the following amenities and activities:
[9:00 AM] – Official event of Water Quality Day 2023 Water Quality Day is Puerto Rico's largest citizen science event. As part of this effort, we invite you to join us in monitoring a body of water near your community. Participating in this event is an effort to raise awareness and take action to keep our water in good condition.
[1:00 PM] – Information tables in collaboration with environmental organizations and a market of environmental artisans Come and learn about other organizations that are working to improve, conserve, and safeguard our environment. This is a great opportunity to explore ways you can support and contribute to their various conservation efforts. Also, come and enjoy the artisan market and support local businesses. There will be tables with original crafts and many more surprises. Don't forget to bring your reusable bag.
[2:00 PM] – Educational talks by environmental organizations – Don't miss the educational talks! Take advantage of this opportunity to clarify your doubts with experts and professionals who are leading efforts in various areas related to environmental restoration and conservation.
[4:00 PM] – Interpretive tour in the Estuarine Nature Reserve of the County Lagoon – Participate in an interpretive tour to learn about the flora, fauna, and history of the Laguna del Condado Estuarine Nature Reserve. You'll also learn how you can help protect this valuable ecosystem.
[5:00 PM] – Educational family games Enjoy an afternoon of games at the County Lagoon. Exercise and promote physical activity with low-impact games, while learning about the estuary and its biodiversity.
[6:30 PM] – Reading of the story: Canito, the fishing bat Relax and enjoy reading the story Canito, the fishing bat; while you learn about the importance and challenges of bats in the estuarine ecosystems of San Juan Bay.
[7:00 PM] – Estuary Cinema presents: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish – After the story reading, stay for the Estuary Cinema screening! It's free.
This event is open to the public. Sign up at https://estuario.org/eventos/ To receive additional information and updates, we look forward to hearing from you!
Estuary Cinema
On Saturday, April 1st, Cine del Estuario presents: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, At 7 pm in Jaime Benítez Park at the Condado Lagoon Estuarine Nature Reserve. As always, the performance is free. Bring your blanket or chair!
Weekly bacteriological monitoring
Evaluation carried out on Thursday 16 of March of 2023. We have GREEN flag in the Condado Lagoon Estuarine Nature Reserve. The map identifies the stations that exceeded the water quality parameter for enterococci (70 CFU/100mL). We recommend avoiding direct contact with these bodies of water during rain events (and for at least 48 hours afterward).
The restoration and water quality management efforts in the San Juan Bay estuary watershed are made possible by our supporters. Donations to the Estuary are tax-deductible in Puerto Rico and the United States.
For more information, access https://estuario.org/donar/.
Tune in to our social media channels, where we share information, including various virtual activities that will contribute to your knowledge and personal and professional development. For any questions or inquiries, please contact us through [contact information missing]. [email protected].
We invite you to register as a volunteer, HERE.
