The Problem in Context
Bahía Magdalena is an area of profound physical beauty. It is among the largest remaining intact coastal wetland/lagoon systems along the Pacific coast of the Americas. Habitat diversity in the Bay is high, including extensive sea grass beds, mangrove stands, and intertidal sand and mudflats. Besides being in a transition zone in between tropical and temperate environments, the many habitats of the Bay and the productivity of the water produce an impressive array of marine life. The Bay is also an important feeding ground and nursery area for several species of endangered sea turtles, and over 100 species of migratory and resident birds use the Bay at various times of the year.  

Despite nearly two decades of conservation efforts, some species of sea turtle continue to decrease in Mexican waters and are sliding toward extinction worldwide. Bahía Magdalena has played an important role as a refuge for several sea turtle populations, mostly green turtles, but also olive ridleys and the rare loggerhead and hawksbill turtles. Despite strong regulations against their exploitation, sea turtles are still poached and caught as by-catch in fishing activities. A complex interaction of community social and cultural factors, such as lack of protected area sanctuaries in the area, lack of sufficient enforcement of existing regulations, and economic hardship in local communities has led to the continued exploitation and the rapid decline of sea turtle populations.

Program Description
Students examine the ecological, societal, and economic issues surrounding sea turtles in Bahía Magdalena. Students meet protected area managers, learn practical field skills, and gain insight into cultural perceptions by speaking with local fishers, tourism operators, and government officials.

Program Details, Session I

Credits	4 environmental studies credits
Dates	Summer 2008: Session I June 9 - July 8
Location/Base	Center for Coastal Studies, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Tour the field station.
Program Fees	Summer 2008: $3,480 (includes all tuition, room, board, local travel. Fee excludes airfare).
Prerequisites	16 years of age, good academic standing, completion of at least junior year of high school
Financial Aid	Need-based scholarships, loans, and travel grants available. Visit our financial aid section for more information.
Field Research, Lectures, & Exercises	Camping trips to estuaries in Bahía Magdalena; Field trips to nearby protected areas Loreto or La Paz; Sea turtle population assessment by collecting biological data on live and stranded turtles in the Bay; Evaluating the social and economic importance of sea turtles by surveying local fishers and townspeople;   Collecting GIS data for research projects that can benefit the local government, fishers, and tourism operators; Creating an environmental education curriculum to support various conservation initiatives within the community.
Community Focus	Our program in Mexico is oriented toward helping the community conserve its natural resources and develop sustainably. And close connections with the local community help establish SFS as a trusted and respected resource. SFS students enjoy a warm welcome into the community, with opportunities to interview residents, practice Spanish, learn about Mexican culture and participate in community service projects. Students also enjoy joining local sporting events and spending time socializing at taquerias and clubs.