Fire, ice, forests and vine yards

Earthwatch, the international environmental charity, is launching ten new cutting-edge expeditions in remote and threatened locations around the globe.

Intrepid volunteers are needed at Masaya volcano in Nicaragua and Poàs volcano in Costa Rica where scientists are studying the effects of acid rain and volcanic smog on water and tropical wildlife.

Volunteers will hike to lava flows and crater lakes to help survey the area’s stunning flora and fauna.

Meanwhile in the the Ecuadorian Andes, one of the world's exceptional wildlife hotspots, Earthwatch scientists are monitoring jaguars, pumas and spectacled brown bears. While exploring this magnificent cloud forest, volunteers will be tasked with setting up camera traps, identifying animal tracks and collecting aerial images by launching a helium balloon using a giant catapult system!

For those in search of a year-round winter wonderland, the Pribilof Islands – located 800 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska, are far beyond the tourist trail. Sadly, the archipelago’s fur seals are in decline, so Earthwatch is working alongside the Aleut people to make conservation plans. This expedition offers an incredible close-up wildlife experience as volunteers will spend time quietly observing the seals. There will also be opportunities to help with sea lion and reindeer surveys.

If you prefer to stay closer to home, then take the train to Bordeaux, France and help Earthwatch to find out how natural farming methods can help wildlife to thrive in local vine yards. Soaking up the atmosphere in this picturesque and world-renowned wine growing region will give you a special insight into wine production and the importance of sustainable farming – as well as an appreciation for local wines.

Other new expeditions include Saving the Tarangire Migration in Tanzania, New York City Wildlife, Wild Horses of North Carolina, Songbirds of the Tetons in Wyoming, Reef Fish of the Virgin Islands and Minke Whales of Canada.

The expeditions detailed above run throughout 2008 and require six – 12 volunteers for one - two week periods. All teams will stay in local hotels and guest houses which offer comfortable but basic facilities and locally produced food.

The new 2008 Earthwatch Expedition Guide and the Archaeology Expedition Guide, which contain all 120 expeditions, are available now. Expeditions last from two days to three weeks and costs range from £175 to £2550 - this is a charitable donation which funds the research, it also covers accommodation, food, training, medical evacuation and the offsetting of greenhouse gas emissions. Special teen and family teams are also available.

For more information, visit Earthwatch.org.