The Experience and Exchange Grants Program was initiated by IBA in 2004 to enable biologists to participate in project work and training exchanges. IBA recognizes that working visits to other projects offer biologists and wildlife managers enormous opportunities for learning, sharing expertise, collaborating in on-site problem solving, technical training, and professional growth. Moreover, these experiences broaden perspective and understanding of the biological and cultural context within which bear conservation programs must operate in different regions. Bears benefit when biologists spend more time applying shared knowledge and less time re-inventing the wheel with each new project. This program funds travel for participants in well-conceived Experience and Exchange projects.
The training project will be held in India, focusing on bear research and conservation. Organized annually by the WCB Research Foundation and IBA, this year’s program includes a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on fieldwork in bear habitats. Participants will learn advanced field techniques using GPS, camera traps, and data analysis tools, while new sessions on genetics and microbiology will enhance research capabilities in underexplored areas. The seven-day training will cover topics such as bear biogeography, habitat monitoring, and community education on human-bear interactions. Each day features practical exercises like scat identification and community outreach activities. The program aims to equip participants with the necessary skills for impactful conservation efforts. Post-training support will be provided to ensure ongoing engagement and implementation of learned techniques.
The IBA grant is instrumental in making this training possible by providing essential funding and resources that facilitate high-quality educational experiences for participants. This support enables the organization of hands-on fieldwork and the inclusion of expert presentations, thereby enhancing the overall impact of the training on bear research and conservation efforts in India.
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