The Dyer Island Conservation Trust
The Dyer Island Conservation Trust delivers unique conservation and research programmes in the fragile and critically important marine eco-system.
Written by edna, August 1 2012
The Dyer Island Conservation Trust was founded in 2006 by Wilfred Chivell. Operating in the incredible marine environment of Gansbaai in the Overstrand area of the Western Cape, this area is home to the Marine Big 5™ – a hotspot for the great white shark; the breeding ground of Southern right whales; home of the endangered African penguin; a breeding colony of Cape Fur seals and dolphin species that visit these shores, as well as plenty of incredible seabirds.
Together with eco-tourism partners Marine Dynamics shark tours and Dyer Island Cruises, the Trust conducts valuable research, conservation and education. The companies support the Trust financially and are essential in fundraising for the Trust.
OUR MISSION:
- Discover and understand this globally important marine eco-system through world-class scientific research.
- Protect the long-term future of the species which live here, by translating this knowledge into evidence-based conservation initiatives and legislation.
- Educate our partners – local communities, legislators and visitors – by informing and actively involving them in achieving our goals for the benefit of all.
OUR KEY PROJECTS ARE:
African penguin conservation which includes a nest project providing critical protection during the penguin fledgling stage; and in 2015 DICT opened a rehabilitation facility, the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary.
Invaluable research on great white sharks by marine biologists includes tagging and tracking, behavioural surveys, wound healing, environmental parameter monitoring and population studies.
Support of whale and dolphin research.
We handle all marine animal rescue, strandings and sampling on our coastline.
Our Environmental Education Programme known as DEEP educates a dedicated group of young learners for three years measuring the impact and growth of each individual.
Marine pollution efforts include the unique fishing line bin project, monthly beach clean-ups, and storm drain catchment nets.
