Conservation activities often require careful preparation, especially when working outdoors in unpredictable conditions. Whether it’s planting trees and mangroves, monitoring coastal ecosystems, or conducting seagrass and coral transplantation, each activity comes with its own challenges. This makes proper equipment and physical and mental readiness essential for comfort and safety throughout the program.
This guide highlights key tips for two main field activities: land-based work and underwater work. It is designed to help new volunteers feel safe, efficient, and comfortable when joining conservation efforts for the first time. The tips are simple and practical, making them easy for anyone to follow—because the main goal is to help you enjoy the experience, stay safe, and stay focused on supporting the environment.
Types of Outdoor Activities in Seasoldier Conservation
- Tree and mangrove planting
- Tree and mangrove monitoring and maintenance
- Seagrass (Lamun) transplantation
- Coral transplantation (Coral restoration)
- Seagrass and Coral monitoring and maintenance
Each activity requires different preparation, but the core principles remain the same: efficient movement, personal protection, and awareness of the terrain.
Tips & Preparations for Land-Based Activities
Land conservation activities may take place in muddy coastal areas, beach forests, or even small hill zones. Clothing and equipment should always match the characteristics of the location.
- Wear comfortable outdoor clothing. Choose lightweight, quick-dry, and sweat-absorbing materials. In cooler areas such as higher-elevation forests, bring a thin UV protective jacket or windbreaker. The right clothing helps you move easily and stay comfortable.
- Use eco-friendly sunblock. Long exposure to sunlight can burn your skin. Reef-safe sunscreen protects your skin without harming the surrounding environment.
- Use sunglasses for visual comfort. Outdoor sunglasses reduce glare, protect your eyes from dust, and help you stay focused throughout the activity.
- Wear a hat to protect your head. Direct sunlight can cause dizziness and dehydration. A hat keeps you comfortable and protected while working outdoors.
- Bring a lightweight foldable bag for personal needs. Pack only what you really need:
- personal medication
- extra glasses
- sunblock
- power bank
- snacks
- change of clothes
- toiletries
The lighter your bag, the easier you can move during activities.
- Bring your tumbler. Staying hydrated is essential. A tumbler helps reduce plastic waste and makes it easier to refill water together with the team.
- Bring an umbrella or raincoat. The weather in coastal areas can change quickly. Having rain protection keeps activities running smoothly.
- Carry equipment according to the activity. Bring planting tools for planting, or monitoring tools if the activity involves data collection.
- Bring a camera or phone for documentation. Documentation is important for reporting, education, and evaluation.
- Wear sandals or hiking shoes that match the terrain. Footwear determines your stability. Sandals work well in muddy areas, while hiking shoes are better for rocky or slippery terrain.
- Use overall boots & gloves for mangrove work. Mangrove mud often hides sharp shells, fallen branches, or small animals. Boots and gloves help prevent injuries and keep you safe.
Tips & Equipment for Underwater Activities
Underwater conservation work, such as coral transplantation or monitoring, requires additional safety measures. Besides the general items listed in points 1–10, here are the essentials:
- Hold at least an Open Water diving certification. Coral transplantation typically takes place at depths ranging from 5 to 15 meters. Certification ensures you have the basic skills needed for safe diving.
- Wear a wetsuit and complete diving equipment. This includes BCD, regulator, mask, snorkel, fins, air tank, and other essential diving gear. A wetsuit protects you from cold temperatures, coral scratches, and jellyfish sting.
- Bring transplanting and monitoring tools. Such as:
- substrate cleaning brushes
- cable ties
- mesh
- coral hammer
- underwater slate
- waterproof notebook and pencil
Using the right tools helps protect the reef and ensures efficient work.
- Study the site beforehand. Understanding currents, depth, seabed conditions, and underwater contours helps you work more effectively and safely.
- Always follow the buddy system. Diving must never be done alone. Your buddy ensures safety, technical support, and observation underwater.
- Bring an underwater camera. Useful for documentation, coral monitoring, and reporting.
- Wear beach sandals. Ideal for moving around on boats and coastal areas, non-slip and comfortable design.
Conclusion
Working outdoors, whether on land or underwater, offers a blend of adventure, learning, and environmental action. With proper preparation, every conservation activity can be carried out safely, efficiently, and enjoyably.
Through this light and practical guide, we hope volunteers can join activities with confidence and return with meaningful experiences, along with the satisfaction of contributing to the protection of Indonesia’s coastal and marine ecosystems.
Writer: Novi Wiji Lestari
Editor: Diyah Deviyanti