The goal of the YEPE trip was to study development issues is Southeastern Ohio in comparison to development issues facing those in the Yucatan. While on the trip, we learned that one of the biggest development issues in the Yucatan is the effects of tourism on the natural habitats. When students were asked what they expect to do and learn during this project, some responded that they wanted to learn about the lifestyles and living habits of both people and animals.

The eco tourism company, EcoColors, did a phenomenal job organizing and managing the trip for our large group. They also scheduled speakers for us throughout the trip to inform us of some of the issues surrounding tourism and how their company works with local townspeople in protecting the environment. The first speaker was Alberto, who was the Promotional Director for Tourism on the Mexican Caribbean. Alberto discussed the benefits and negatives of tourism. While we were camping in the Sian Ka'an Federal Reservation, Carlos, who was supervising the grounds, informed us of the plants and animals that were native to the area. The archaeologist that provided the tour at Tulum enlightened us about the Mayan culture and their math system. In Coba, the archaeologist informed us about the Mayan ball game, the stories surrounding the pyramids, and the roads that created the transportation system. Kenneth Johnson, who director of EcoColors, spoke to us about the delicate coral reefs and ancient sea turtles. Our tour guides, Eduardo Patino and Eduardo Rios, were very knowledgeable on topics such as flamingos, whale sharks, cenotes, and the underground water system.

Take a look at the iMovie, which is a compilation of pictures from our expedition in Mexico. You will need Windows Media Player to view it.

A few learning experiences that students and parents discussed during the final meeting while on the trip:

"It was upsetting to see the richer getting richer and the poorer getting poorer due to the commercialized Cancun and Playa del Carmen. Even though tourism does promote jobs to local townspeople to make a living, the majority of the money made does not stay in Mexico, but is sent back overseas to the countries that helped invest in Cancun and Playa del Carmen."

"One of the most meaningful activities was scuba diving in the coral reefs and learning how Cancun is actually destroying the coral reefs. That got my attention because it takes one instant to destroy it (the coral reefs)."

"While we were in the jungle, I was surprised to find out that the trash washed up on the beach is not even their own. It was from Venezuela, Nicaragua and other countries."

"Only 18 fisherman in Holbox were allowed to take boats out to swim with the whale sharks to control people disrupting them and to make it more environmentally-friendly."

 

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