Mangrove Conservation
The FOSTUR Mangrove Conservation Internship Program provides students and early-career professionals with immersive, hands-on experience in mangrove ecosystem conservation, coastal research, and community-based environmental stewardship. Based in Costa Rica, this internship places participants directly in active mangrove restoration and monitoring projects that support fisheries, marine biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Hands-On Mangrove Internships in Costa Rica
The FOSTUR Mangrove Conservation Internship Program provides students and early-career professionals with immersive, hands-on experience in mangrove ecosystem conservation, coastal research, and community-based environmental stewardship. Based in Costa Rica, this internship places participants directly in active mangrove restoration and monitoring projects that support fisheries, marine biodiversity, and climate resilience.
This program is ideal for students pursuing degrees in biology, marine science, environmental science, ecology, forestry, climate science, engineering, or conservation-related fields, as well as individuals seeking practical field experience in coastal ecosystem protection.
About FOSTUR
FOSTUR (Friends of Sea Turtles) is a nonprofit foundation dedicated to protecting coastal and marine ecosystems through conservation, STEM education, scientific research, and community engagement. In addition to sea turtle conservation, FOSTUR works to protect mangrove forests that serve as critical nurseries for marine life and natural defenses for coastal communities.
Internship Focus Areas
Interns gain hands-on experience across multiple aspects of mangrove conservation and research.
🌱 Mangrove Restoration & Fieldwork
- Mangrove reforestation using native species
- Site assessments and restoration planning
- Monitoring mangrove survival, growth, and health
- Understanding hydrology and tidal influence on mangrove systems
🔬 Research & Environmental Monitoring
- Collection of data on mangrove biodiversity and forest structure
- Water quality monitoring in mangrove estuaries
- Sediment, salinity, and tidal data collection
- Contribution to long-term datasets used in coastal research
🐟 Fisheries & Marine Connectivity
- Studying the role of mangroves as nurseries for fish and crustaceans
- Monitoring species presence and habitat use
- Understanding links between mangroves, estuaries, reefs, and offshore ecosystems
🌡️ Climate & Carbon Research
- Introduction to blue carbon concepts and carbon storage in mangroves
- Assisting with data collection related to climate resilience
- Understanding the role of mangroves in shoreline protection and erosion control
👥 Community Outreach & Education
- Environmental education for local communities and visitors
- Participation in guided mangrove tours and conservation presentations
- Supporting outreach initiatives that reduce habitat destruction and pollution
Learning Outcomes
By completing a mangrove conservation internship with FOSTUR, interns will:
- Gain hands-on experience in mangrove conservation and restoration
- Develop field research and environmental monitoring skills
- Understand the role of mangroves in fisheries, climate, and coastal protection
- Build experience applicable to conservation, research, and graduate programs
- Work alongside experienced conservation practitioners
Who Should Apply
This internship is designed for:
- University students seeking academic credit or field experience
- Recent graduates pursuing careers in environmental or marine conservation
- STEM students interested in coastal ecosystems and climate science
- Individuals passionate about habitat protection and sustainability
No prior mangrove experience is required. All training is provided on-site.
Internship Location & Duration
- Location: Costa Rica (coastal and estuarine mangrove systems)
- Duration: Flexible placements from 2 weeks to several months
- Schedule: Year-round opportunities depending on project needs
Internships can be customized to meet university requirements or capstone project objectives.
Why Intern with FOSTUR
- Work directly within active mangrove conservation projects
- Gain experience in one of the world’s most important coastal ecosystems
- Participate in measurable conservation and restoration outcomes
- Learn how mangroves support fisheries, biodiversity, and climate resilience
- Live and work in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet
Apply for a Mangrove Conservation Internship
Join FOSTUR and help protect mangrove ecosystems while building the skills and experience needed for a career in conservation.
Apply today to become part of the next generation of coastal conservation leaders.
