Coronavirus Response Update
Following the latest developments and government advice on the Coronavirus pandemic, HWDT have taken the difficult decision to cancel all Research Expeditions on board our research yacht, Silurian, until 30th June 2020. Our Discovery Centre in Tobermory, will also remain closed during April, May and June, plus all public events and educational activities during this time are cancelled or postponed.
The decision was not made lightly and we are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel any of our activities. The safety and well-being of our staff, volunteers, visitors and the communities in which we operate is paramount. Given the responsibility everyone has to reduce the transmission of this virus, this is the most responsible decision to take at this time.
While we can’t get out to survey we are keeping busy, our fieldwork scientists are locked in a data dungeon (jokes, they’re in the comfort of their own home) working on important research projects and we look forward to sharing results with you in the coming months. We’re also looking ahead to when life can return to normal, keeping hopeful that this won’t be too far away. You may even wish to embrace that normality by exploring the Hebridean seas on board Silurian, having awesome wildlife experiences and contributing to conservation. We’re busy preparing our 2021 research expedition timetable, with lots of exciting options for participants including two new rendezvous locations! We will share the first 2021 expedition dates next week!
These are unprecedented circumstances and we need your support more than ever to deliver our programme of community based research and education when the situation improves. As a small charity we will strive to do all we can to deliver our mission. We recognise that for many people this year is going to be very difficult. However, if you feel that you can support us further at this time, we would urge you to please consider booking on a research expedition later this year, or in advance for 2021, or alternatively to make a donation towards our conservation work.