Giant Clam Seeding Event Nov. 2002          

Dive and Trek continues to be in the forefront of seeding clams in the Balayan Bay area. Together with more than a hundred volunteers, 50 mature giant clams measuring more than 30cm in length were seeded in the house reef.

With the highest survival rate in Batangas, Dive and Trek remains the most ideal place to seed these rare species of Tridacna Gigas giant clams.

This time, a near perfect survival rate of 98% was achieved a week after the seeding.

All activities were covered by TV Channels 2, 4, and 7.

Please click on the links for more pictures.

Transport. A team of volunteers led by DM Roel Gacillan and Jerry Trebillo picked up the clams at Bolinao, Pangasinan together with UP-Marine Science Institute (UP-MSI) respresentative, Don Dumale. The transport was assisted by a convoy of volunteers from Pugad Lawin QC until the clams were turned over to diver volunteers at the Dive and Trek Marine Pool, Saturday 4 AM.

Briefing. Don assisted by Jan Acosta gave a briefing to the volunteers (all first-time seeders) on how to handle and seed the clams.

The volunteers were divided into groups and given work assignments and schedules.

Seeding (album1, album2). With a prior arrangement with UP-MSI, all the clams were already pre-tagged and measured before they were released. This way, there is less stress on the transplanted clams leading to a higher survival rate.

All volunteers had lots of fun bringing down the clams in the reef.

Awards and Recognition. This event would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors and the help of the volunteers. Awards, Plaques and Certificates of appreciation were given to everyone who helped in whatever way they can.

Party Time (album1, album2). And finally, a party in celebration of the Clam Seeding's outstanding success.