#fnpf

In Central Kalimantan, we volunteered with FNPF for over a week where we planted trees, did research on wildlife present in the forest, and tracked bird species. Because there was no service at all at the Jerumbun center, we were advised to contact family members before hand to let them know we wouldn’t be able to speak to them for 11 days. The accommodation we stayed in was a dormitory that I shared with 6 other girls from my study abroad program. By the way, I won’t ever forget finding a cockroach underneath my pillow!! My worst fear came true! Anyways, we were only allowed to charge our phones and other necessary electronics during night since the center operates on solar panels, which I found amazing! I love how staff members for FNPF are dedicated to practicing sustainability and teaching others how to care for the environment. On an honest note, my time in Jerumbun was very fun but also physically tiring. Each morning we woke up at 6 to hike out into the forest to survey present species living in this type of ecosystem. In doing this, we set up camera traps and pitfall traps to determine which survey method was a better advantage for this research. By mid-afternoon, I was soaked in sweat, covered in bug bites, and physically worn out. I would shower, have lunch, then learn more Bahasa Indonesia from my language instructor. We then spent the remainder of the day doing reforestation activities with staff members of FNPF such as planting trees or working in the nursery. I had a great time interacting with the Indonesian locals and learning about their lives. Although it was challenging not being able to speak to anyone from back home, it was an eye-opening and educational experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow as a person. Disconnecting from my old modern life to be with nature and learn with people that are passionate about conservation and the environment like I am was truly rewarding. I feel like this trip has allowed me to gain more insight into conservation efforts and cultural practices in Indonesia. It’s definitely something everyone should experience, it is indescribable.