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  My Travel Story
  
  My education and research begins on the tiny, Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire. There, I will spend one month studying Advanced Scuba and Marine Ecology Field Research Methods. Just like Jacques Cousteau, I will become a certified scientific diver and photo/videographer - studying the area’s mangrove and sea grass habitats, conducting important coral reef research, and diving at night to watch bioluminescent ostracods spawn. In addition to my research, I will be volunteering for Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire. After a short respite to allow my body to acclimate back to the Midwestern climate, I will begin additional field research on northeastern South Dakota's Prairie Pothole Region at the Waubay National Wildlife Refuge and Wetland Management District in Waubay, South Dakota. I will collect data and model the results to determine where best to focus future easement acquisitions, and help develop strategies that foster resiliency and sustain wetlands. Finally, I will embark on a trek from the Waubay National Wildlife Refuge to the Arctic Circle in Canada. Upon arriving at the Churchill (Manitoba) Northern Studies Centre, I will observe and experience the Arctic's unique wildlife, nature, research and culture. In addition to seeing polar bears and beluga whales in their natural habitat, I will further analyze three distinct biomes (boreal forest, tundra and ice caps) during this two-week program, and have the opportunity to tour Fort Prince of Whales. The common thread in each of these excursions is the fact that they represent the most fragile ecosystems on the planet. It is my goal to determine first-hand if the phenomena of Global Climate Change is actually occurring, what is being done, and what can be done to mitigate its effects. As explorer and scientist Jacques Cousteau said, "When one man, for whatever reason, has the opportunity to lead an extraordinary life, he has no right to keep it to himself." It is my humble request that anyone willing would share this opportunity with me, not only in offsetting the costs not covered by scholarships and grants I have received, but also in its rewards. As a geographer, analyst, sociologist, and scientist I will be documenting, cataloging, engaging the locals, and of course taking photos during the course of these unique experiences to share with all of you. Please consider helping me to accomplish my goals. Time is a critical factor in my funding, and I have yet to procure the $3,500 out-of-pocket expenses for gear, food, preliminary training and certifications required for these excursions. So many of you have already invested in to my life in one way or another and I thank you. Would you be willing to take that additional step, and help me to complete my leap of faith? I am going, come hell or high-water, and am asking you to join me.
  
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