BMTREC - Belize Marine Tropical Research and Education Center

BM T.R.E.C.

bmtrec — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:10:11 +0000

“While at TREC I learned the names of so many fish. Its amazing the variety of fish which inhabit the reef.”

The expedition is based at the Belize Marine Tropical Research and Education Center. BM T.R.E.C. is committed to the conservation of tropical ecosystems through the use of education and research by working with universities and high schools. BM T.R.E.C. was founded, and is directed by, Dr. Ken Mattes and Maureen Gannon.

Located on Ambergris Caye, BM T.R.E.C. is ideally situated to carry out its mission. With a staff of well qualified, broadly trained and dedicated professionals, a large complex of specialized facilities and a fleet of vessels, BM T.R.E.C. holds opportunities for the student, researcher or eco-tourist, that are simply unsurpassed in Central America.

2010 Program

bmtrec — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:09:10 +0000

Program Dates: June 10th ~ June 23rd

“Dude this trip was wicked sweet. This whole experience was amazing. I would do this trip again in a heartbeat!”

Days 1 ~7

The expedition starts with two days on the mainland, exploring the Mayan cave of Cha Chem Ha and the ruins at Xunantunich. We will then travel to the island of Ambergris Caye where you will have the option to either snorkel, or earn your Open Water, or Advanced Open Water SCUBA certification. You may also choose to help scientists gather data on a variety of research projects including conch poaching and sea urchin abundance.

Days 8 ~14

We’ll visit a neighboring island during Lobster Fest, the start of the lobster season, continue to snorkel and gather data, and divers have the option of taking a day trip to Turneffe Atoll, doing several 2-tank dives closer to Ambergris Caye, or a combination of the two.

We will also go to a beach bar-b-q, sample native Mayan cuisine, zip line through the jungle canopy, and go river tubing through a cave.

The Chicken Drop

bmtrec — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:08:10 +0000

A long standing tradition in the town of San Pedro is the world famous Chicken Drop. This bizarre local event happens every Wednesday night.

After purchasing a number from the restaurant, anxious players wait for the chicken. Once placed in the pen, if he poops on your number, you win! You can win $50 US, but you have to clean up the poop!

San Pedro

bmtrec — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 10:07:02 +0000

“If I could I would do this again and even live there.”

San Pedro is the only town on the island of Ambergris Caye. While the town has been conducting a major renovation that includes new street names, locals will always know the three main streets as Front Street, Middle Street and Back Street.

During the expedition, you will be able to explore the town and visit the local shops. A Super Burger at Fido’s following our first dive day is a tradition!