Invasive Species Management Project - Belize

Join our Invasive Species Management program in Belize to protect the Caribbean ecosystem from the invasive lionfish. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, learn about coral reefs, and make a positive impact on marine conservation.

Are you passionate about preserving marine life and safeguarding the Caribbean ecosystem from invasive species like lionfish? Our Invasive Species Management Project in Belize is your opportunity to make a difference. Dive into the turquoise waters of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, part of the world-renowned Belize Barrier Reef, and help us combat the alarming lionfish invasion.

Why Lionfish Must Go

Lionfish, native to the Pacific Ocean, have no place in the Caribbean or Atlantic Oceans. With no natural predators in these waters, they rapidly multiply and threaten the native species. Your involvement in our program is essential to remove this invasive species and protect the coral reef ecosystem.

What You'll Do

As a volunteer, you'll become part of our scuba dive team, patrolling the reefs, and capturing lionfish. These invasive species are not only harmful but also delicious, making them part of our dinner menu. Our efforts are making a significant impact, with over 7,000 lionfish removed and 1,585 dissected for research purposes in a single year.

Scuba Certification and Diving with ReefCI

Whether you're an experienced diver or a novice, our program caters to all levels. No certification? No problem! You can learn to dive on our island with calm, clear waters and expert guidance. Looking to advance your dive skills? We offer a range of PADI certification courses to enhance your scuba expertise and marine conservation knowledge.

PADI Certification Courses Offered:

• Open Water Certification – $225 USD (3 days)*
• Advanced Open Water Certification – $275 USD (3 days)*
• Rescue Diver Certification – $325 USD (1 week)*
• Divemaster Certification – $750 USD (4-week minimum stay)*

PADI Specialty Certification Courses Offered:

(One must be open water certified before taking any PADI specialty courses)

PADI Specialties with a Marine Conservation Focus

• Coral Reef Conservation – $175 USD (1 day)
• Fish Identification – $175 USD (2 days)
• Invasive Lionfish – $175 USD (2 days)
• Shark Conservation – $175 USD (2 days)
• Underwater Naturalist – $175 USD (2 days)

PADI Specialties with a Diving Skills Focus

• Deep Diver – $175 USD (3 days)*
• Emergency First Response – $175 USD (1 day)*
• Underwater Navigator – $175 USD (3 days)*
• Underwater Photographer – $250 USD (2 days)*

*Please Note: PADI eLearning is required prior to arrival for certain courses. You must be a fully certified open water diver before taking any PADI specialty courses.

Come and be part of our efforts to protect the Caribbean reef from the invasive lionfish. Your volunteer contributions will play a crucial role in building a sustainable future for this distinctive ecosystem, guaranteeing its preservation for generations to follow.