Building Forest Guardians: Ranger Training Begins at Sophia Point
And other March 2025 updates…
Building Forest Guardians: Ranger Training Begins at Sophia Point
This June, Sophia Point launched the first phase of our Ranger Training Programme—an exciting milestone in building local capacity for rainforest research, education, and conservation. Staff from Sophia Point, along with participants from Karrau and Riverview villages, came together for an intensive two-week training course led by renowned Guyanese wildlife specialist, Waldyke Prince.
The training covered a wide range of ecological field skills including mist netting, pitfall trapping, camera trapping, GPS navigation, group leadership in both forest and river settings, and health and safety protocols. It was a packed and rewarding programme, designed to equip rangers with both practical and scientific knowledge.
Rangers play a vital role at Sophia Point, serving as the bridge between science and community. This programme is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to developing a team of highly skilled rangers drawn from our neighbouring communities—people who bring together traditional knowledge and scientific training to support visiting researchers and conservation efforts.
Huge thanks to Waldyke Prince for his expert guidance, and to all the participants for their enthusiasm and dedication. We look forward to continuing this important work and growing the ranger team in the months and years to come.
Sophia Point Rangers Inspire at Bartica Bi-Annual STEAM Fair
Sophia Point was thrilled to take part in the Bartica Bi-Annual STEAM Fair, where our team of dedicated Rangers hosted a vibrant and interactive stand focused on environmental conservation. The event brought together primary and secondary schools from across Bartica for a day filled with learning, curiosity, and inspiration.
Our Rangers showcased the importance of rainforest conservation, wildlife monitoring tools like camera traps, and hands-on ecological research. It was a fantastic opportunity to engage with young students and ignite their interest in science, the environment, and the future of Guyana’s natural heritage.
A big thank you to the Regional Education Department for organizing such a well-executed and educational event. We were proud to be part of it and look forward to continuing to inspire the next generation of Guyanese environmental leaders!
Rain or Shine: Riverview Primary School Visits Sophia Point
Despite the rainy weather, Grade 5 and 6 pupils from Riverview Primary School had an unforgettable experience visiting Sophia Point Rainforest Research Centre. The students learned about the vital importance of the rainforest and its rich biodiversity.
Guided by our knowledgeable Sophia Point Rangers, the group ventured into the forest for a hands-on exploration. They discovered how camera traps help monitor wildlife and were thrilled to see clear signs of animals that had walked the trails just the day before.
We extend a big thank you to the Riverview Village Council and Toshao Gregory Williams for facilitating transportation and providing the community boat that helped the students reach Sophia Point safely. A huge thanks to Miss Moshett, Riverview Primary Head Teacher for the commitment to environmental education and for bringing the students to Sophia Point.
We look forward to welcoming more school groups and continuing these visits next year, supporting the environmental education curriculum and inspiring young minds to appreciate and protect their natural heritage.
