TRIP REPORT
April 24-28, 2013
Contents
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................... 3
II. INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVES........................................................................................ 4
III. ITINERARY .................................................................................................................... 3
IV. FINDINGS ..................................................................................................................... 6
A. Fishing Co-op .................................................................................................................. 14
B. Aquaculture……………………………………………………………………………....9
C. Health ............................................................................................................................... 11
D. Summer Internship ......................................................................................................... 12
E. Preschool/Kindergarten ................................................................................................. 13
F. Water Resources and Purification ............................................................................... 14
G. Community Garden ........................................................................................................ 15
H. Women’s Co-ops ............................................................................................................ 16
I. Scholarship program....................................................................................................... 16
J. Turtle Youth Group ......................................................................................................... 17
K. Electrification/Solar Panels ........................................................................................... 18
V. CONCLUSIONS ............................................................................................................ 20
Appendix I: Pictures.................................................................................................... 22
Appendix II: Resumes of Summer Interns…………….…………………………………27
Appendix III: Exit Interviews..……………….……………………………………………..30
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I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Baja Project team visited El Barril from April 24-28, 2013. The primary focus of the
trip was to advance current projects and to fully transition them to the first year
consultants. Additionally, the team spoke with homestay families and investigated
logistical components in preparation for the summer internship program.
The team was especially eager to meet with members of the fishing cooperative, as we
have been communicating with a potential buyer, TwoXSea, a sustainable seafood
sourcing company based out of Northern California. Although representatives from
TwoXSea were not able to travel to El Barril during our April trip, the fishermen
remained extremely interested in this opportunity. Together, the BP consultants and the
cooperative were able to determine the capacity, investment, and logistical support
required to move forward with this partnership. Additionally, an individual businessman,
Adolfo Chang, approached the cooperative expressing interest in purchasing fish from
the community. BP assisted the two parties in conducting an agreement that would
allow Mr. Chang to export El Barril’s products to Los Angeles, CA while minimizing the
potential risks for the fishermen.
This trip was the second time the consultants conducted a call for scholarship
applications under the new, more transparent distribution system. Students were
required to provide application materials and interview with the new consultants. We
provided an opportunity for those students not in the community to submit their
application via email, but emphasized that their scholarship determination would rely
heavily on their essay.
Consultants met with Claudia, head of the health clinic committee, and learned of
various setbacks with the progress of the new health clinic. The contractor BP
consultants had in mind, Arón, is unlikely to return to the community as he found other
work in La Paz. However, the consultants spoke with Guayo, who expressed great
interest in working on the clinic. After his current project on the church is complete,
Guayo will begin his role as principal contractor for the health clinic. BP plans to utilize
the summer interns in mobilizing volunteers to support the construction under Guayo’s
leadership. The health committee had not met since the last December trip and a key
contact/volunteer coordinator, Ramon, has left the community and now resides in La
Paz. The travelling clinic came in late February/early March to restock medicine, but did
not conduct any check-ups in the community. They announced they were returning April
21-25, but the community had not yet heard from them.
The Baja Project met with nine members of the aquaculture group to gauge next steps
in advancing the initiative. We were relieved to learn that the permit required to begin
harvesting had not been revoked (a risk the group faced if lines weren’t in the water by
February 2013). The government has extended the permits due to a scarcity in finding
oyster and scallop seeds in the region. The main concern of this meeting was
operationalizing the farms once the funding is approved. This included costing out the
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equipment needed, transporting equipment from the Pacific Coast to El Barril, and
maintenance of the harvest once the equipment is put in the water. A concern for the
group is the need for 24-hour surveillance of the harvesting area. Members concluded
that hiring security personnel was the best option to provide 24-hour monitoring. BP is
expecting to receive a budget proposal from Callos del Golfo that includes materials as
well as the security system and has already scheduled a follow up meeting when we
return in June.
Two interns were selected to assist in the continuation of current BP projects for a
minimum of 6 weeks starting mid-June. Kyle King and Yolanda Marin will travel to El
Barril with the first year consultants and be introduced to the community during the June
trip. Additionally, BP decided on housing the interns at Lino and Rigo’s houses. The
consultants sought information regarding water, electricity, and food costs of having an
additional member in the household in order to adequately compensate the families.
Overall, the trip was very productive and we are excited with the progress of key
projects. The first year students were able to take the lead on projects while utilizing the
experience and expertise of the second year consultants. The first year students had
time to continue building relationships with members of the community and gained
insight into the economics of the community by spending time with each of the
cooperatives. The team was encouraged to see that the meetings with the fishing and
aquaculture cooperatives were beneficial and anticipates the summer interns will
successfully continue to progress on the current projects.
II. INTRODUCTION & OBJECTIVES
The trip was the last for second year consultants Caitlin Keenan, Olive Marquez, Claire
Springer, and Whitney Caruso. The transition of leadership to the new Baja Project
Consultants was smooth and the new consultants are feeling more confident with their
knowledge of the community and projects. The main objectives of the trip were to meet
with members of the fishing cooperative, distribute scholarship applications and conduct
interviews for candidates, plan out logistics of the summer interns, and follow up on key
projects like aquaculture, health clinic construction and solar panels/electrification.
III. ITINERARY
Itinerary for Baja Project Trip
April 24-28, 2013
Wednesday 4/24
7:30am
Arrive at Carlsbad airport
8:00am
Depart for El Barril
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9:30am
Stop in San Felipe
11:45am
Arrive in El Barril
12:00pm
Lunch
1:00pm
Go to town: church to meet Guayo, women’s jewelry co-op (Claudia and
Ofelia), meet primary and secondary teachers (Jesus and Cesar), discuss
scholarships, stop by sewing co-op (Emilia)
5:30pm
Return to La Mancha
7:00pm
Dinner
Thursday 4/25
8:00am
Breakfast
9:30am
Go to town: meet with Don Toño re: community garden, meet with Agustin
re: water, meet new potential Kinder teacher (Erika)
11:00am
Go to secondary school to discuss scholarships with students
12:00pm
Lunch
1:00pm
Excel workshop with Delfino (fishing coop)
2:00pm
Meeting with Guayo and Luis regarding construction of health clinic
4:00pm
Fishing Co-op meeting regarding TwoXSea and Chang International
7:00pm
Dinner with Luis
Friday 4/26
8:00am
Breakfast
10:00am
Skype call with Christian (ProNatura) and TwoXSea (Marce/Bill)
12:00pm
Go to town: distribute previous scholarships, go to sewing co-op
1:00pm
Lunch
2:00pm
Install solar panels at church for teachers
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3:30pm
Scholarship Interviews
5:00pm
Meet with Zaira regarding transition of Kindergarten teacher
6:00pm
Return to La Mancha
7:00pm
Dinner with Lino/discuss homestay logistics
Saturday 4/27
8:00am
Breakfast
9:00am
Go to town: finish distributing scholarships, distribute scholarship
information to parents of students not in town, finish installing solar panels,
collect water sample #1, talk to Carlos re: health clinic assistant
11:00am
Free time- go out on boat (fishing, water tubing)
2:30pm
Discuss homestay logistics with Rigo
3:00pm
Aquaculture meeting
6:00pm
Dinner
7:00pm
Soccer game and community gathering on La Cancha
Sunday 4/28
7:00am
Breakfast, collect water sample #2
7:30am
Discuss process of health clinic construction with Luis
8:00am
Depart La Mancha
8:30am
Depart El Barril
1:00pm
Arrive in San Diego
IV. FINDINGS
A. Fishing Co-op
Summary of Prior Progress:
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Baja Project consultants were able to make huge strides in terms of establishing a
relationship with the fishing cooperative during the September 2012 trip. During the
September trip, BP was able to attend a meeting organized by Christian Portillo of
ProNatura (environmental NGO focused on sustainable fishing). BP also raffled eight
solar-powered lanterns supplied by 20K Watts. The winners of the lanterns were very
pleased as they could use them at night on their boats to aid in their fishing. While the
lanterns were instrumental in establishing a relationship between BP and the fishing
cooperative, BP was unable to formally meet with the fishing cooperative during the
December trip, as many were unavailable to meet during our stay in El Barril.
One of the developments that BP has been monitoring over the past year has been the
co-op’s recent acquisition and use of satellite internet.
Shortly after returning from the December trip, Baja Project received an inquiry from a
northern California sustainable seafood company, TwoXSea, regarding the cooperative’s products, method of fishing and possibly purchasing seafood from the co-op.
Over the last several months, BP has liaised between TwoXSea and the fishing
cooperative in order to connect the co-op with the potential U.S. buyer. In the most
recent conversation, TwoXSea stated that the first purchase could be made much
sooner if the fishing co-op could get their products to Ensenada, where TwoXSea has a
third party that could transfer the products across the border. BP has also consulted
Christian Portillo over the last several months in order to get more information on the
cooperative’s fishing practices and to get advice on how to move forward with
connecting the two parties.
While in San Francisco for a school-networking event, two of BP’s consultants, Whitney
Caruso and Caitlin Keenan, were able to meet with Bill Foss and Kenny Belov of
TwoXSea and Marcella Gutierrez who TXS contracted as a logistics consultant.
TwoXSea expressed serious interest in purchasing from El Barril’s cooperative and
even mentioned the possibility of investing in the community in order to show their
commitment. BP had since spent several months attempting to connect the cooperative
and TwoXSea despite the logistics consultant’s hesitation to move forward with the
project due to her perceived high investment costs and logistics complications that stem
from El Barril’s lack of infrastructure.
Christian (ProNatura) had also indicated to BP that some type of accounting workshop
was necessary to help give more order to the co-op’s operations. BP had been
collaborating with Christian via email to prepare an Excel session with Delfino
(cooperative president) to streamline his bookkeeping process.
Trip Objective:
(1) Explore possibility of moving forward with TwoXSea.
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One objective of the April 2013 trip was to interface with the fishing cooperative to
gauge the co-op’s level of interest in selling to TwoXSea. Delfino Cisneros, the
president of the fishing cooperative, had already expressed interest in selling to
TwoXSea over the last several months via email, but it was important to meet face to
face with him and the other fishermen to field any questions, concerns and provide
clarification on the opportunity. BP met with the fishermen in the primary school to go
over the opportunity with TwoXSea, answer any questions they had, and get as much
information as possible in order to present El Barril’s co-op as an attractive investment
and business partner to TxS. Although outside investment is not necessary, BP
consultants believe it will be a smart way to ensure that TxS maintains a vested interest
in El Barril and is serious about upholding their commitment to buying El Barril’s
products.
The majority of the fishing cooperative attended the BP meeting, and they were all very
interested in the opportunity. They stated that they are willing and able to make ice and
drive cargo to Ensenada for TwoXSea to pick up, but they will need a machine to break
the ice so it does not damage the fish as well as ice chests for each boat (“panga”) to
keep fish fresh and allow fishermen to stay out and continue fishing in the summer. BP
is still waiting for an email from one of the fishermen with the actual cost to build these,
but they are estimated to cost around $1,000-1,500 USD each. The fishermen stated
that for the first transaction, they would like TwoXSea to pay 50% in anticipation of
receiving the cargo in Ensenada to cover things like gas, ice and investment for the trip.
After the fishermen are more comfortable with TwoXSea, they said they would accept
30% to be paid in anticipation. El Barril currently has one ice truck, but the cooperative
expressed interest in having two trucks to be able to bring in more revenue. They
estimate that a truck would cost approximately 400,000 pesos. The fishermen also
estimated that one trip to Ensenada would cost around 13,500 pesos (gasoline = 9,000
pesos, wages for driver = 2,500 pesos and meal stipend for driver = 2,000 pesos).
The most important item is the ice chests for each boat, because without them the
fishermen are unable to fish in the summer months of June, July, and August. In the
past, they have resorted to shark fishing at night to make up for these losses, but with
the ban on harvesting shark passed last year due to environmental hazards, the
fishermen now find themselves out of work during the summer. BP consultants
recommend that with or without a formal contract from TwoXSea, that the Baja Project
should invest in these ice chests, as the economic development of the community as a
whole depends on the success of the fishermen. A formal proposal for the purchase of
these chests will be submitted once we receive the prices from the co-op.
(2) Observe cooperative accounting operations and determine where BP
consultants can contribute to its organization.
The co-operative is currently utilizing the services of an accountant in Ensenada who
charges 3,000 pesos per month. BP consultants reviewed the reports from Ensenada
with Delfino to understand where figures were coming from. In order to make his
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bookkeeping easier, BP taught Delfino some Excel shortcuts and formulas and provided
a template to track the amount of fish caught by each fisherman. Delfino seemed to be
appreciative and now BP has a better understanding of how the cooperative’s business
operations work.
Future Objectives:
BP consultants are in the process of assembling a report of findings to present to
TwoXSea. Christian Portillo proposed meeting with BP, El Barril’s fishing co-op and
TwoXSea at the end of June in Ensenada. BP, Christian and the co-op have committed
and now BP will invite TwoXSea in conjunction with submitting the report.
Now that BP is more familiar with the cooperative’s production capabilities, operations
and capital needs, it is researching other potential buyers in the San Diego area as well.
BP is very optimistic about the opportunity and demonstrated interest of the fishermen.
The cooperative is the critical component to the community’s existence.
Miscellaneous:
While reviewing finances with Delfino, a man named Adolf H. Chang (president and
CEO of Chang Global International, according to his business card) approached the
office asking about buying fish, wanting to know where to rent a room, and asking BP
consultants to translate for him and Delfino.
Later in the day the cooperative and Mr. Chang (with translation help from BP)
negotiated a deal that will involve Mr. Chang bringing his boat to El Barril, loading it with
purchased fish, and carrying the products to Bahia de Los Angeles. From Bahia de Los
Angeles, Mr. Chang plans to load the cargo into a truck and drive to Los Angeles, where
he will sell to markets and restaurants. He will be paying a price higher than that paid
by the ice trucks that come into the town to purchase fish. The transaction is supposed
to take place on May 5 and BP will be in touch with Delfino to see how things go.
B. Aquaculture
Summary of Prior Progress:
During the December trip, Baja Project consultants had the opportunity to go out on the
water with several members of the Callos del Golfo, an oceanographer, and an
aquaculture technician as they scouted possible harvesting sites. A meeting was held
with record attendance to discuss the prospects of each site and to discuss the
opportunity of going into a partnership with Carlos Reyes, owner of the business Sol
Azul, SA, an aquaculture business in Baja California. Carlos has years of experience
cultivating scallops and oysters on the Pacific side of Baja California and is looking into
expanding to the Sea of Cortez. Members Callos de Golfo took on the responsibility to
submit a budget proposal and send a copy of the site visit report to the BP consultants.
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Trip Objective: Meet with Callos de Golfo aquaculture group to ascertain the group’s
progress thus far and find out what next steps are required.
Callos del Golfo continues to make progress as its members work to finish a final
budget proposal for their first harvest. Originally, their aquaculture permit was set to
expire if the group did not have lines in the water by February of this year. However,
Ramon, a group leader, assured the BP consultants that the government would not
enforce this rule due to a national scarcity of oyster and scallop seeds. During the
December trip Arturo and Ramon agreed to work on producing a complete project
proposal to hand to Mr. Jameson. Since then, Arturo has been in contact with a biologist
from the Autonomous University of Baja California to learn more about the technical
capacity needed to pursue oyster farming using a FLUPSY (Floating Upweller System).
When the consultants sat down with the group on April 27th, Arturo informed us that the
only components needed to finish the proposal were minor administrative costs, such as
labor and the costs of operation. The group discussed what boats would be used for the
system, the cost of gasoline for the boats, the cost of maintenance, wages for workers
to conduct maintenance, and security. Security was the most discussed topic with
several members expressing concern given frequency of aquaculture robbery in the
state of Sonora. The group discussed the possibility of paying for video surveillance but
in the end felt that hiring workers for vigilance was more secure. In order to pay for this,
the group discussed getting in contact with groups like CONAFE (Consejo Nacional de
Formento Educativo) or the Secretary of Fishing and Aquaculture of Baja California
(Sepezca) about subsidizing the cost, that have ocean surveillance programs to monitor
protected waters. Ramon also discussed the possibility of collaborating with neighboring
islands, providing vigilance for the region in exchange for funds, and the possibility of
collaborating with Mexican soldiers stationed in the area. On our part, the BP
consultants agreed to speak to Christian at Pronatura about the cost of hiring security
personnel and working with conservation groups to split the cost.
BP consultants also asked about possible project risks/recovery costs and future
markets. Risks to the crop include possible health shocks to the oysters and changes in
climate. If the project were to fail, Ramon affirmed that there would be few recovery
costs, possibly some from selling platform materials. On the other hand, if the system
were a success and oysters made it to maturity, the group would sell their product
through an intermediary in Ensenada. They are very confident in the oyster and scallop
markets, and see no risk of not being able to sell their products once they make it to
maturity. Scallop prices are at a historically high level, and supply levels are expected
to decline.
Lastly, Ramon has continued to stay in contact with Carlos Reyes about the possibility
of entering into a partnership for the production and harvest of scallops (mano de león).
This will be a parallel project to the oyster farming, as it includes no capital investment
(Reyes is trading the use of his equipment in exchange for using the waters and
cultivation permit of Calles del Golfo). However, the group decided to focus their efforts
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first on the production of oysters, and integrate the scallops once the foundation has
been set.
Future Objectives:
BP expects a full budget proposal from the Callos del Golfo on May 4th, 2013. BP will
work with the group and possibly Pronatura on calculating the cost of security and
surveillance for the system. We hope to submit a formal project proposal for funding by
mid-May. Both the BP consultants and Calles del Golfo are very excited about the
coming months and finally operationalizing the Aquaculture project that has been in the
makings for over five years!
C. Health
Summary of Prior Progress:
During the December 2012 trip, the team was informed that the original albañil
(contractor), Arón, had gone back to La Paz with his family and was working until
January 15th. Despite the lack of an albañil, the new health clinic remained a priority for
the community, so the team decided to plan a workday. There were over 30 volunteers
and the community seemed very positive about the progress that had been
accomplished during the day and the potential to finish the floor in the coming month.
Ramón, the secretary, promised he would keep in contact with the consultants about
future progress and that they would plan another workday after the holidays that would
be spearheaded by the health committee.
From January through April 2013, the consultants had not heard from Ramón and it was
highly unlikely that Arón would return to El Barril. Guayo was suggested to become the
new albañil and the consultants were determined to foster this new opportunity.
Trip Objective: Meet with Guayo and Luis regarding a transition of leadership to a new
contractor.
The Baja Project held a meeting with Guayo and Luis to discuss the current stage of the
health clinic construction, expectations for the new contractor, and the required first
steps to reinitiate construction. Guayo expressed great interest in being the albañil, but
added that he would need one full-time assistant and several part-time volunteers in
order to complete the task. His assistant for the renovation of the church, Carlos, was
proposed as a viable option. After being unable to meet for a follow up meeting while
BP was still in town, Luis and Guayo agreed to meet on a different occasion to review
the health clinic model and discuss budgets, logistics, and a timeline.
In order to address the issue of community members being reluctant to contribute their
time in the construction, we believe the leverage of the summer interns would be
valuable in enlisting volunteers instead of asking them to pay. They will be able to
devote several hours of the week to go door-to-door asking for support for the various
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workdays, as needed by Guayo and Carlos.
Future Objectives:
Baja Project is expecting a budget proposal from Guayo that outlines the material and
labor costs. The consultants plan on comparing his projections with the previous
proposal and will attempt to stay within the original budget. For the June trip, we hope to
kick-off the new leadership by conducting a workday with the summer interns and the
community.
D. Summer Internship
Summary of Prior Progress
Baja Project interviewed prospective interns and was excited to find two great
candidates and offer summer internships to Yolanda Marin and Kyle King.
Yolanda is in her fourth year of undergraduate studies at UCSD, where she is double
majoring in Latin American Studies and Sociology, and she will graduate in June
2014. Yolanda has studied abroad for an academic year in Chile and has experience
traveling alone to developing areas in Latin America. Yolanda is also a native Spanish
speaker, as she is of Mexican descent.
Kyle is a fellow classmate of the current Baja Project consultants, and will be graduating
from IRPS in June with an emphasis on Latin America and International
Management. Kyle is an experienced US Naval veteran and was a transfer-pricing
intern for Chevez, Ruiz y Zamarripa last summer in Mexico City.
Trip Objective: Move forward with finalizing budget for summer internship program, visit
homestay families and discuss expectations and logistics for housing a student.
Yolanda and Kyle will drive to El Barril with the Baja Project consultants in June and
stay for six weeks to further Baja Project’s progress with the community. Examples of
projects we would like the interns to work on are the construction of the health clinic,
finding new ways for cooperatives to sell their products to outside markets and assess
the needs/opportunities for new projects while interfacing with the people of El Barril on
a daily basis.
“Don Rigo,” who works with Luis at La Mancha and has a house in the community, has
offered to house Yolanda during her internship. Rigo has two daughters, who share a
room, and Yolanda will be able to share the room as well.
Lino, who also works with Luis at La Mancha and has a house in the community, has
offered to house Kyle during his internship. Lino and his wife Chuy have said that Kyle
is welcome to keep everything he has in their house and sleep either in an extra room of
theirs or outside (which is what Lino’s family tends to do in the summer due to the
heat). Lino and Chuy also have a 15-year-old son, Christian, who will be at the
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homestay.
Logistics for the Homestay:
Each intern will be expected to bring their personal items, including toiletries,
towel, sheets, and laundry detergent. In addition, interns will need to bring their own
hammock and/or cot with bed sheets. The consultants view this a cost of living that
should be covered by Baja Project. Also, the consultant believe a fan should be
provided for each of the interns
Budget for Family:
Costs for each individual intern include, but are not limited to the following:
Food: 1,000 - 1,500 pesos per month
Gas for Guerrero Negro: 700 peso per trip and 1400 per month
Gasoline for Washing machine: 20 liters per month for the family
Gasoline costs for the generator: research pending
Budget for Interns:
Travel Insurance: approximately 250-500/month
Hammock: $80-90
Bug Net for Hammock: $75
Cot: $90-120
Bug Net for Cot: research pending
- http://www.rei.com/category/4500025
Battery Operated Fan and Packs of Batteries: US$ 50-60
-http://www.walmart.com/ip/O2Cool-10-Battery-OperatedFan-with-AC-Adapter/15522388
Gas for Guerrero Negro: 700 peso per trip and 1400 per month (only paid to one
intern)
Daily Living Stipend to buy Personal Items in Guerrero Negro: $100/month
Mexican Cell Phone: research pending
Mexican Car Insurance: awaiting quote from Kyle King
Future Objectives: Ensure that the pilot summer internship program is successful in
hopes of continuing it for future Baja Project consultant groups.
E. Preschool/Kindergarten
Summary of Prior Progress:
In our December trip the Baja Project found out that the current Kindergarten teacher,
Zaira, was likely moving out of the community to pursue higher education in Vizcaino for
her daughter, Celina. She mentioned the possibility of another community member,
Erika, being interested in becoming the new Kindergarten teacher. Erika was not in El
Barril at the time and thus not available to speak with us, but Zaira assured us she
would let us know of her decision when we returned in April.
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Trip Objective: Find out Zaira’s decision, assist in the transition of a new Kindergarten
teacher.
Zaira informed us that she had indeed made the decision to move to Vizcaino.
Fortunately, the new teacher, Erika, was in town for one day while the consultants were
visiting. The team discovered that Erika is currently taking classes at CONAFE (Consejo
Nacional de Fomento a la Educacion), which will equip her with the tools to conduct
lesson plans and activities with the Kindergarten students in El Barril. The program is
called Preescolar Migrante. She hopes to enroll in Universidad Pedagógica Nacional
later this year to get her teaching license and graduate degree. Erika seemed well
prepared and enthusiastic about becoming the new teacher starting in August.
The BP team spoke with Zaira on the importance of transferring all the information that
Erika required to ensure a smooth transition. For example, Zaira had requested
government assistance in renovating the Kindergarten playground and was required to
return to El Barril in September to sign papers after the request had been approved.
Zaira agreed to train Erika on how to make requests such as these. Zaira also
mentioned that the only requirement of the transition to Erika was for her to sign a
government document at the end of the school year.
Additionally, the certificate that Zaira was initially trying to attain to receive a
government salary, Educadora de Preescolar-Instituto Maurer, Erika was not yet
qualified for because she didn’t have at least three years of experience. The consultants
are waiting to hear from Erika regarding what kind of funding she expects to receive.
Future Objectives:
Support in the transition of the Kindergarten teacher and maintain in contact with Erika.
F. Water Resources and Purification
Summary of Prior Progress:
The new consultants had met with Agustín, who continues to manage the water system.
He is responsible for collecting money from community members, distributing the water
and maintaining the filtration system.
Trip Objective: Speak with Agustin about the water system, gather water samples and
conduct water testing.
Agustín indicated that the water system is working well. People from the community
come to get their water, and they can pay either with money or gasoline to run the
pump. The water filtration system uses carbon filters.
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The bi-annual water sampling was conducted, and the samples were taken to the lab for
testing on Sunday, April 28th. The lab will test for the following: Arsenic, Calcium, Iron,
Lead, Chloride, Nitrate, Nitrite, Sulfate, and E.coli.
Also, recognizing the need for a sustainable method for testing the water, the
consultants piloted a new test that can be performed in the field to detect E. Coli. The
consultants collected one bottle sample from the community water source and
conducted 8 observations tests. The results will be compared to the lab results in order
to verify the accuracy of the disposable field tests. The consultants had ordered the 50
free samples tests from 3M Solutions.
http://solutions.3m.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/Microbiology/FoodSafety/productinformation/educational-resources/university-program-orderform/
Future Objectives:
Upon receiving the results of the water tests, evaluations will be made on the
effectiveness of the field tests and the water filtration system.
G. Community Garden
Summary of Prior Progress:
In December, BP consultants learned that moving the community garden near the
secondary school required an additional 20,000 pesos to install a pump and irrigation
system. Don Toño explained that the funding from CONANP was poorly invested and
that he would not plant anything until an irrigation system is in place.
Trip Objective: To check on the original garden and the status of the move.
The garden cover (malla sombra) had been removed from the original site and was
safely stored in Don Toño’s residence. Upon speaking with Don Toño, the consultants
learned that CONANP was assisting the women’s cooperatives in planting gardens for
individual use. He requested to purchase more malla sombra through the women’s
cooperatives, but has yet to receive them. The 20,000 pesos to install the pump and
irrigation system is still pending, but BP sees a potential partnership with CONANP to
assist in the implementation of a larger garden project.
Future Objectives:
The team plans on contacting Humberto Galaviz Leal, CONANP worker whom we met
in December, to discuss the possibility of working with Don Toño in acquiring the
necessary resources required to move the garden near the secondary school.
H. Women’s Co-ops
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Summary of Prior Progress:
BP displayed Ambar’s jewelry on campus and took orders before the April trip.
Students and staff placed orders that totaled around $170(US).
Trip Objective: To deliver the cash from orders, pick up jewelry, review bookkeeping
and explore new ways for the women to sell their products in a more sustainable way
that would be less reliant on BP.
Ofelia works with the head of Ambar (Claudia) and also creates her own bags made
from recycled materials that she finds. Prior to the trip, BP created a catalog for Ofelia
so that she could present her pieces to outsiders and potentially take orders. When BP
presented Ofelia with the catalog, she was very grateful but explained that it would not
necessarily help her take orders as she only makes pieces based on what she is able to
find; she would not be able to guarantee the delivery on custom orders as she produces
pieces based on what is available at the moment she is working.
Ofelia explained that she is able to sell her work with the help of her sister-in-law, whose
friend owns a store in Guerrero Negro. Her sister-in-law’s friend receives 10% of the
sales.
Future Objectives:
BP plans to continue to explore more sustainable methods for marketing and sales that
the cooperative women can execute themselves. Research prices of materials needed
to make products to see if they are less expensive in the US.
I. Scholarship Program
Summary of Prior Progress:
During the December trip BP handed out another installment of scholarships to students
pursuing higher education. This includes Sergio, Omar, Victor, David, Yuana, and
Zurisaday. The consultants got the opportunity to meet with Jonny and discussed how
to establish a university scholarship program with direct transfer of scholarship funds.
Jonny affirmed he would get in contact with detailed information to set this up.
Trip Objective: Complete the last payment for the 2012-2013 round of scholarships and
collect expenditure receipts. Distribute notices announcing scholarship applications
have opened for the 2013-2014 school year. Conduct interviews with students at the
junior high school with interested students.
During the second day of the trip, the BP consultants made a scholarship
announcement at the secondary school informing students that the scholarship
application process for the 2013-2014 academic year had opened. Students were asked
to turn in their most recent report card, an essay, and a form with personal and family
16
information. Scholarship interviews were scheduled for Friday, April 29th at the
secondary school. Due to the timing of the trip, most students pursuing higher education
were outside the community, so the BP consultants did not get to sit down with these
students for an interview. Most of these students will be notified about the application
process via email. Application materials will be received via email and essays will be
weighed more heavily for these students. Of the students in the community, the firstyear consultants got the opportunity to meet with Daniel Villavicencio and Omar Angulo
Villavicencio to discuss their schooling and future prospects.
Additionally, the consultants got the opportunity to sit down with Zurisaday’s parents
briefly and inform them about the scholarship application process. The first-year
consultants had never met Zurisaday’s family before and during the last trip we had
been told that Zurisaday’s family had moved out of the community. However, after
sitting down with Zurisaday’s mother the consultants learned that the family will be in El
Barril and are enrolling their younger daughter, Valeria, in the secondary school.
The last round of scholarships was handed out and receipts were collected. However,
the consultants learned that Victor, son of Emilia and Carlos, had not passed some of
his classes last semester and was not attending school his spring semester. Out of
respect for the intention of the scholarships, the consultants decided to withhold Victor’s
last payment, but he was encouraged to reapply for the new school year round.
Overall, the consultants are still receiving application materials from students.
Approximately 10 applications will be reviewed and scored according to the system
developed by the second-year consultants. Additionally, although BP has been in
correspondence with Jonny about establishing a university scholarship deposit system
and received documentation from his university back in February, this documentation
could not be verified. BP will continue to be in contact with Jonny about this process.
Future Objectives:
Notify students during the June trip of BP’s final choice of scholarship recipients for the
upcoming school year. Distribute the first round of scholarship money to students and
collect receipts.
J. Turtle Youth Group
Summary of Prior Progress:
Lino, who leads the turtle group, had Baja Project consultants over to his new house for
dinner during the last trip and showed photographs and video from the group’s last
camping adventure.
Trip Objective: Learn about recent activities of the Turtle Group
17
BP had dinner at Lino’s house again and followed up on the activities of the turtle group.
Right now there are not many developments, but once sea turtle season hits again, Lino
will be ready to resume “grupo tortuguero” activities.
Future Objectives:
BP would like to follow the activities of the turtle group and see if there is anything it can
do to contribute to its existence as it provides young people in the community with
something to do outside of El Barril. It is a way for them to learn about environmental
issues and experience life outside of their small community.
K. Electrification/Solar Panels
Summary of Prior Progress:
In December 2012, it was apparent that more and more community members are
becoming dependent on solar panels and their own generators for lighting and
electricity purposes. The community generator had not been used for several months,
aside from a couple of days in late-October for a quinceañera celebration. The positive
aspect of this is that people are embracing cleaner forms of energy, such as solar. The
negative aspect is that people are spending more money on securing their own
personal energy sources (solar panels and individual generators) instead of contributing
to fund the community generator. Community members are opposed to contributing
money to the communal generator because they feel it is unfair when those who do not
pay still benefit from the services. Since there are no individual switches to cut people
off from the community generator, even those houses that do not pay receive energy
when it is turned on.
All of the solar panels that were distributed during the June 2012 trip are reportedly
working well. Two community members who were previously unable to install their
panels and lights because they needed to create wooden bases for the parts were able
to acquire the wood and installed the panels and lights successfully. In addition, the
fishermen who were provided with solar lamps through a raffle to use on their boats
reported that the lamps are extremely helpful and are working well. Two families new to
the community, Josue and Jessica, as well as Irma and Arturo, had requested panels.
Trip Objective: Check on the status of solar panels distributed in June to ensure they
are working well. Distribute 3 additional solar panels.
After requests for more solar panels in the community and our proposal, Leo Rossi at
20K Watts agreed to supply 5 additional small solar systems. These small units include
a 10-Watt solar panel, a small controller, a small battery, and light. (Specifics listed
below). In addition, we purchased wiring to install the solar systems into the homes.
Solar Module 10 Watts
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Controller –
Battery – UB 1270 12Volts 7Ah
Light – LED Rail Light 12V 100mA
Upon arriving in El Barril, we discovered that the two families (Josue & Jessica and Irma
& Arturo) that requested the panels had once again moved away from the community.
The decision was made to donate two solar panels to the teachers housing. Currently,
the teachers receive their electricity from the neighboring Rancho El Barril. Since they
are dependent on the generator of Rancho El Barril, their energy supply can be
unreliable at times. The solar systems were successfully installed; Don Toño and the
teachers agreed to mount the panels in a more secure fashion to the roof.
The third solar panel was raffled off during a community celebration and soccer match.
Emilia won the raffle, and her husband (Carlos) can install the panel. The remaining two
panels are in San Diego and BP consultants are deciding how to distribute them on the
next trip.
A few community members, including Facundo, have expressed interest in buying
additional solar panels. All systems that had been installed in June seem to be working
well. Eight extra batteries (UB1270, 12V, 7Ah) for these systems are located in Luis’s
office.
The electricity situation at both the primary and middle school relies on solar panel
systems. The Middle school’s energy system seems to be working well. However, the
elementary school does not have electricity due to problems with the system. First of
all, the batteries in the system are dead. This could be due to two reasons: first,
batteries do need to be replaced occasionally, and second the system lacks a controller.
Given that this is the second set of batteries, it is highly recommended that a controller
and new batteries be installed.
Current System:
Solar Modules – 10 panels each at 120 W
(Rated Voltage 16.9, Rated Amps 7.1 Ah)
Inverter – 2000-Watt Power Inverter
(converts 12 Volts AC to 110 Volts DC)
Needed:
Batteries: 8 Large Batteries - Deep Cycle 12 V
Controller
Future Objectives:
Speak with Leo from 20kWatts about a long-term strategy for electricity in El Barril, and
discuss the possibility of two members of 20kWatts joining the June trip. In June, check
the installation of Emilia’s solar system and the teacher’s systems. Decide how to
effectively distribute the remaining two solar panels. Address the lack of electricity at
the primary school by researching replacing the batteries and installing a controller.
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V. CONCLUSIONS
The April 2013 trip to El Barril was a success. The first and second year students
worked together to ensure a seamless transition and continued progress in the
community. The team was pleased to see great progress with the fishing cooperative,
the aquaculture cooperative, and the scholarship program and is looking forward to
introducing the summer interns to the community in June. The Baja Project was able to
secure Guayo’s interest in leading the construction of the new health clinic and is eager
to conduct a workday in June.
BP consultants are optimistic about the potential business partnership between the
fishing cooperative and TwoXSea. With assistance from ProNatura (Christian Portillo),
the consultants are hopeful that all stakeholders will be able to meet in Ensenada in
June. Additionally, with the new information regarding El Barril’s production capabilities,
operations and capital needs, consultants aim to expand and diversify business
opportunities to potential buyers in other regions as well. As the fishing cooperative is a
critical component of El Barril’s economy, the consultants will strategically monitor this
project.
The remaining scholarships from the previous year were handed out, and first year
consultants opened up the scholarship application for the new 2013-14 school year as
well. First year consultants met with students and parents of students receiving
scholarships whom they had not met before. It was a great opportunity to reinforce the
relatively new scholarship distribution system. Applications were also extended to
students currently outside of the community in expectation that they submit their
application, grades, and a well-written essay via email.
The progress of the new health clinic ceased after the December trip. However,
enthusiasm from Guayo potentially leading the construction with Carlos as his assistant
has revived this project. In the meantime, BP is waiting for a new budget proposal from
Guayo that would include labor and materials. Consultants foresee the summer interns
playing a critical role in organizing workdays and coordinating volunteers to aid in the
progress of building the clinic.
The aquaculture group’s business opportunity has gained great momentum. With the
permit still in place and a pending budget proposal, the initiative is likely to manifest
within the upcoming months. A meeting has already been scheduled to take place
during the next Baja Project trip in June.
Our newest pilot project, the Summer Internship Program, will begin mid-June. The
consultants are confident that the community will warmly welcome the two interns and
anticipate that their presence will ensure the continued progress of ongoing projects.
We see their role as contributing most heavily to the fishing cooperative, health clinic,
and aquaculture cooperative. These were determined to be the main projects requiring
continued support throughout the summer.
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Overall, the trip was extremely productive. The first year students were able to take the
lead on projects while utilizing the experience and expertise of the second year
consultants. The first year students had the opportunity to continue building
relationships with members of the community and gained insight into the businesses of
the community by spending time with each of the cooperatives. The team was most
excited to see the meeting with the fishing cooperative was highly constructive and
anticipates the summer interns adding value and momentum to each BP project.
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Appendix I: Pictures
The garden shade (malla sombra) has been removed in preparation to transfer it to a
new location near the secondary school.
The construction of the health clinic has been delayed, but there has been great interest
from Guayo and Carlos to begin leading construction in June.
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First year consultants with sweatshirts made by the sewing co-op.
First year Baja Project consultants meet Delfino, fishing cooperative President, for the
first time.
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Members of the fishing cooperative demonstrate how they pack their products in the ice
truck.
The fishing cooperative meet regarding a possible business opportunity with TwoXSea.
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Consultants meet with members of the Women’s cooperative
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Secondary schoolteacher, Cesar, assisting BP consultants install solar panels in the
church.
Agustín explaining how the water filtration system functions
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Appendix II: Resumes of summer interns
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YOLANDA MARIN
3520 Lebon Dr. #5310 San Diego, CA 92122
ymarin@ucsd.edu
Objective
To obtain an internship position with Baja Project. Aside from providing my help, I will like to
be enriched with learning about the developmental steps this group provides to the
community.
Education
University of California- San Diego
B.A Latin American Studies
B.A Sociology
G.P.A 3.4
Graduation Date: June 2014
Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile
Spent a year abroad completing major requirements
Archeological Program- Moquegua, Peru
09/09- Present
06/11 -06/12
06/12-07/12
Skills
Work effectively with a team as well as independently with minimal supervision
Motivated to learn and to help others
Goal-driven
Friendly, enthusiastic with positive energy
Fluent in verbal and written Spanish
Proficient in Word, Excel, Powerpoint
Ability to adapt to new environments and social settings
Experience
Macy’s- Support Team
November 2012- January
Responsible in helping customers from diverse backgrounds about merchandise
Keeping selling floor area neat and organized
Learned to prioritize job tasks in busy holiday settings
Residential Life Clerk for OASIS at UCSD
Summer-2010
Responsible for running the residential office with 140 students
Assisted program coordinators
In charge of receiving and delivering any type of messages
Answering phone calls
Translated in Spanish between parents and coordinators
Was in charge that we had the necessary materials to run the office smoothly
Ran errands throughout UCSD
Worked with various forms of computer programs such as excel
Assisted in the preparations for events
Co-Director for UCSD Eyes on the Elderly
Responsible for organizing events and activities
Lead and manage the organizations objective
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May 2010 – June 2012
Hold partnerships with convalescent home
Responsible for directing the administrative details
Direct prospective budget needs
SPACES Overnight Program
Encourage under-represented students for higher education
Allow students to experience college life
Mentor students with University of California Curriculum
04/08/10- 04/10/10
Poll Worker
2008-2009
Learning how to collaborate with new co-workers at each voting precinct
Assigning the voters their correct ballot
Making sure of their identity
Working with confidential data
Community Service
Trabajos Voluntarios-Universidad Catolica
March 2012
For two weeks we spent time with a rural and overlooked community in Chile to provide
information for the municipality
Collaborated with other Chilean students
Interviewed every family about their condition in terms of their basic necessities
Hogar de Cristo
Fall 2012
Collaborated with an orphanage as a tutor
Created educational activities for the children
Qualcomm Stadium booth attendant-2009
Collaborated with a group of 7 people in running a booth
Necessary to learn tasks quickly
Customer service was above everything else
Belize Pro-World Program
Spring break 2010
Help build an orphanage/ school
Collaborated with other 15 students and locals
Interpreter for a Local Clinic
October 2009
Responsible to provide a good flow of communication between patients and doctors
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Appendix III: Exit Interviews
Interview 1: Caitlin Keenan
What did you enjoy most?
I think that it is the most valuable extracurricular activity that IRPS has to offer in terms
of real-world experience. It is good to have something to relate what we learn in class
to.
What was your biggest challenge?
I am a realist, so being here thinking I could get things done when it turns out that they
are much more complicated was frustrating for me. Working with a group and having
the camaraderie that we had was a very good thing and helped very much though. It
was also difficult for me to determine what my role would be here as I am more of an
introverted person. It was a challenge for me to find my part in the community for
people to embrace me at first.
How were you most successful at building relationships within the community?
It was hard at first. I used little situations that were supposed to be structured to find an
opportunity to ask questions that were more personal and had nothing to do with
“business” or “checking off boxes.” Talking about nothing for two hours at someone’s
house was a really great way to get to know community members and build
relationships. I learned that a good way to approach people from the community was to
talk about lighter, personal things and then ease into “business.”
What changes would you recommend for the Baja Project? Or, what changes did
you make that you would recommend we keep?
A change that we made that I think that you should keep is being more open to new
students. It was good to work together and support each other this year. We had a
horrible experience from day one with our second-year group and we wanted to change
that right away when we became the second years and make sure that the first years
know that we think they contribute a lot.
One change I would propose would be to have some sort of reflection time every night
during trips where we meet for maybe 30 minutes and just go over what happened that
day. It is a good way to keep up with everything that is happening and hear everyone’s
thoughts.
What should we look for in a team and individuals?
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Look for people with experience doing this kind of work. Not everyone has to have it,
but a couple of people should. Each person should be sincerely interested and
passionate about the work involved with this kind of project and not just look at it as a
vacation in Mexico. A lot of people are looking for development experience, but do not
have any yet – so think about those who could benefit from having international
experience.
Did you achieve some of your original goals and what were some of the elements
of your success?
I did not set specific goals for myself at the beginning. I wanted to come and do what I
could. There have been many hurdles and things I haven’t agreed with. We did not
want to just push forward with big projects, but wanted to also branch out with new
projects. I am glad that we did that and made connections with other groups –
especially with the fishing co-op.
What are good Metrics for measuring our success based on your experience?
I do not think that the health survey was a useful tool. It was too long (it takes two and a
half hours to get through), and many questions were not relevant and/or were repetitive,
but we had to ask them in order to obtain panel data. If we were to continue with a
survey, it would have to be re-done into a much better survey, which would be very
time-consuming. Maybe interns could work on new questions that are health/energyrelated.
What do you think the goals of the Baja Project are, in a general sense?
To be innovative in the way we approach situations. Many times it is easy to use what
has been passed down to you, but it is important to look outside the box. The goal
should be to serve as a link between the community and outside (i.e., other
communities in Mexico, government, etc.) because they do not have access to people
outside here. We should help facilitate putting them in touch with the right people.
What do you think are the biggest opportunities for us next year?
Opportunities with the fishing co-op. At this point last year, we had zero communication
with them because the second years told us that they did not like or trust women. They
have been amazing though and it is so important to connect with them since they are
the heart of the economy. Our relationship with them is extremely important. The
biggest opportunity is to continue to strengthen the relationship with them, not the health
clinic. If the clinic were built somehow and there was a way to use it, I would be happy
to be proven wrong. But, it seems that the clinic has to be built for them and I do not
see there being any community buy-in.
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How do you feel that your involvement in Baja Project has impacted your
professional development, career options, job search, etc...
I knew that I did not want a career in international development before this experience
because I want to have a family and not travel all the time, but I still wanted this
experience. I would like to get involved in CSR or work for some sort of wealthy donor
to help decide where to invest his/her money. This experience has been a great
steppingstone for that sort of career and has offered me great talking points in
interviews. I had also never been to Mexico before moving to California, so this has
given me a chance to travel and has taught me a lot.
As a group do you have any recommendations for us? What should we do
differently? What have we done well, what areas can we improve?
You guys are good at getting done what we hand to you to do. Just make sure that you
think about new ways to do things after we leave and that you open up more to
community members in June and try to get to know them better.
Interview 2: Whitney Caruso
What did you enjoy most?
Loved meeting everyone in the community and making friends. Favorite part of this
work is meeting people in community. Overtime relationships with people and projects
go up and down.
What was your biggest challenge?
Last year, the biggest challenge was with the second year’s feelings of tension.
Checking in with everyone is really important. With 4-8 people working together, there
is always going to be issues, and differences of opinions
How were you most successful at building relationships within the community?
Mostly, by joking around because it is part of my personality. Tried avoiding awkward
silence by asking questions random and remembering people’s stories.
What changes would you recommend for the Baja Project? Or, what changes did
you make that you would recommend we keep?
The Transition part they changed helping through everything. Not being afraid to
approach any group and changed perception of the fishing coop.
What should we look for in a team and individuals?
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We always tend to think you need something, but it always seems to works out. Try to
find someone you think you could work with… field experience is helpful but maybe one
person with field experience is enough.
Did you achieve some of your original goals and what were some of the elements
of your success?
The Health Clinic – no. The goals change every time. And letting the goals not be very
set in stone can be good. A goal is getting to the root of the issue of poverty, and
focusing on fisherman may help. For example, consider getting ice chests for the
fishermen to fish during the summer. Bodegas (ice chests) help with future buyers
beyond TwoXSea. Ask Jameson for the ice chest ($13,000-14,000)
What are good Metrics for measuring our success based on your experience?
Don’t think STATA or numbers is the answer. Relationships that you build are
important. Also, each project has different goals, and different measures.
What do you think the goals of the Baja Project are, in a general sense?
To bring economic development to the community overall, and especially through
fishing and health.
What do you think are the biggest opportunities for us next year?
Fishing Coop and the Aquaculture…. Fishing coop could be accomplished within the
year and connecting with other people after TwoXSea. Jump when the momentum is
here. Stories in the past of good relations… try to build up on that relation again.
How do you feel that your involvement in Baja Project has impacted your
professional development, career options, job search, etc...
Had experience outside of Baja in Nicaragua. The networking through Jameson would
be useful but has not taken advantage of this opportunity, but could use it in the future.
International Experience did need. Baja Project was just something that she wanted to
do.
As a group do you have any recommendations for us? What should we do
differently? What have we done well, what areas can we improve?
Good job assimilating into the community. And, group is good at taking the initiative.
With more time and experience you’ll get more confortable in the community.
Scheduling items better. If not sure what to do just go to the community and you’ll find
something. In the past trips had been longer then can take a full day. Recommends
having dinner at Lino’s more.
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Interview 3: Olive Marquez
What did you enjoy most?
The people, being able to form relationships. Learn from them and their lives, hangout
with them.
What was your biggest challenge?
Bad relationship with last years group. Being able to voice your opinion and ideas about
projects. In the end would just have to act on their ideas. Instead, it would be more
preferable to be open to new ideas, going beyond the list of things we need to do.
How were you most successful at building relationships within the community?
Just going to the community and hanging out with the people, learning about their lives,
making jokes. Knowing that our lives are not that different.
What changes would you recommend for the Baja Project? Or, what changes did
you make that you would recommend we keep?
The summer internship, if it goes well it might be something to keep. Make more
community time, but at the same time meet with smaller groups (cooperatives) one-onone. Train the community on what they should be doing for themselves, like installing
the solar panels
What should we look for in a team and individuals?
Not timid people, people who are willing to do outreach and get their hand dirty.
Maybe it would be possible to stay in the community for one night, make the connection
that way. Perhaps go fishing with the fishing cooperative, do something they enjoy, like
the soccer game to outreach to the youth.
Did you achieve some of your original goals and what were some of the elements
of your success?
Wanted was the get a market for the cooperatives but it didn’t happen. Realized the
difficulty of gathering materials from the US, but not something that should be
permanent.
What are good Metrics for measuring our success based on your experience?
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Hard to measure success. This trip it seems like we didn’t get a lot done, can’t report
the finished construction of the health clinic. At the same time, we made important
connections
At time all there will be is meetings and nothing will get done.
What do you think the goals of the Baja Project are, in a general sense?
Capacity building and giving the community the tools to know what the best decisions
are for their community and family. Perhaps this will require them to leave the
community, but at least they’ll be able to do what’s best for their families.
What do you think are the biggest opportunities for us next year?
Fishing coop - Everything in the community revolves around this, this is their main
income. If Two X Sea goes well, then fishing will be more important, it will be more
crucial to build this up to ensure they are able to meet this capacity. Lots of fishing
opportunities, but they lack organization; don’t really realize the opportunity before
them. Perhaps if this builds up the government would be willing to fix the road.
How do you feel that your involvement in Baja Project has impacted your
professional development, career options, job search, etc...
I love development work and this is just a continuation of this interest. I’m from a big
city, but still had experience seeing how the government is absent in smaller, more rural
areas. Very impressive to tell others about the field experience, a good opportunity to go
on different projects, learned a lot about fishing and finance through the projects.
Perhaps it would be beneficial to switch roles and have everyone learn a little but about
all the projects and give everyone experience.
As a group do you have any recommendations for us? What should we do
differently? What have we done well, what areas can we improve?
Take more initiative, ask more questions; sometimes it might sound repetitive because
another member might know the answer, but it’s good for everyone to know. We’re in a
position to ask a lot of questions, so take the opportunity.
Interview 4: Claire Springer
What did you enjoy most?
I mostly enjoyed being here and understanding the community, dynamics, people, and
operation, especially in a small town. In the field development work, it was really eye
35
opening, an awesome opportunity. I enjoyed being in the community. And every time
you see a breakthrough, i.e. the fishing coop didn’t seem possible, but it seems they’re
taking us more seriously now.
What was your biggest challenge?
Trying to figure out how I could contribute because I was kind of terrified coming into
this because of my language skills; I put out a disclaimer that it wasn’t going to be easy
for me. I felt like I held back a little and feel that it had impact on other things that I did. I
worked hard to feel really comfortable, especially on an individual basis. The good thing
is getting in a smaller group setting.
How were you most successful at building relationships within the community?
As much as I think the health survey is not the best structure, I think the experience of
going to every single house in the community and talking to them was the most
important because you meet people you didn’t know. There are a lot of families on the
outskirts of Baja projects that you get to know a lot better. It was best when there were
only a couple of us. Getting to know everyone is really helpful.
What changes would you recommend for the Baja Project? Or, what changes did
you make that you would recommend we keep?
Recommend: being welcoming to the new consultants, keep a positive attitude. Keep
doing what we’re doing; keep pushing projects, especially the relationship with
fisherman. Whatever you can do for better cohesion in community and integration with
Baja Project in the community. It’s helpful to monitor what’s going on, but not take on
one project solely.
What should we look for in a team and individuals?
I think people who are willing to listen to other points of view. Personalities that mesh
pretty well, I kind of tend to hang back. Fostering an environment where everyone’s
opinion is valid and incorporate everyone’s opinion into making a decision. Hopefully we
can find some guys because it seems strange that only women want to do this type of
work. People who are willing to work hard and understand the time commitment
involved.
Did you achieve some of your original goals and what were some of the elements
of your success?
I think I did, I got a lot more comfortable and that was one of my main goals. To feel a
part of it and find what you can excel at. I enjoy education and kids and that’s not
something we do here as much, but if I can hang out with the kids, you just have to find
how you can use your strength. You have to find real goals for yourself: I wouldn’t have
led an aquaculture meeting, but if you can make smaller goals like getting to know more
people, people will appreciate it.
36
What are good Metrics for measuring our success based on your experience?
It’s really hard to measure success here and I don’t think we’re doing a good job of it.
And we need to do a better job because numbers won’t really show how successful we
are. I think the more we build trust and show our worth, the better integrated we will be.
As soon as we can say we know everyone in the community and when we become
aware how we can help. Success isn’t building the health clinic or making money for
women’s coop because it’s not sustainable. This lessens the impetus for them to go find
markets if they know people are going to come into town every two months to buy their
stuff. They have to be involved in other things.
What do you think the goals of the Baja Project are, in a general sense?
I think that the goals are different from what we actually end up doing. I do think we are
about development and we’re trying to work with this community and that’s important. I
think that by having projects it may appear that our focus is this, but it should be more
relationship based, not project based, but it’s hard to keep that balance. We can’t try to
make this place sustainable on our own. What we need to do is figure out how to
connect community with outside sources to last (government, ngos, contacts). We don’t
want to pour money into a black hole if we’re just giving them stuff. Figuring out how to
create a sense of cohesion and figure out how to get things like a generator going and
not having people be afraid to pay. And having interns here all the time will be good for
that.
What do you think are the biggest opportunities for us next year?
I think you guys will be behind and making things happen. Right now the fishing coop is
looking to us for leadership that will be beneficial. It’ll be important to keep their trust
and show them we have value. I hope that aquaculture will see, but it’s tough because
it’s something that you see only when we’re here, but when we come back nothing has
progressed. It’s really difficult because Luis is the liaison and he doesn’t have time to do
any of that. You guys have stuff that’s moving forward and that should always be a goal,
but I think you’ll see that things don’t happen the way you plan. They’re always
unintended issues that come up. I think one of the big things is that it’s important not to
get too pessimistic which is really easy to do. If you have that attitude, it’ll affect
everything and things won’t happen just for the sole reason that the group won’t see it’s
worth. Have a positive attitude while being critical. Keep asking tough questions (how
long is this going to take). Ask Luis because he’s a great resource. Keep talking to
everyone; keep gauging what they really want (community dinner might not be the best
way). They say they might want a health clinic, what the really want is a road, which is
something we can’t do.
How do you feel that your involvement in Baja Project has impacted your
professional development, career options, job search, etc...
I never really wanted to be involved in development as a job. It’s something I’m
interested in, but I’ve never had the opportunity to do, but never thought about it as a
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job. It’s frustrating and takes a certain type of person to do this day in and day out. I do
think it’s really valuable to be able to say I was a consultant in Mexico for a year and
half. That’s what this experience looks like on paper. It’s helpful to us. I’m learning about
this, but I hope there’s reciprocity in terms of what we can do for the community. Just
the involvement in all these different areas is good for us, even if it’s coming down to
anecdotes (I know how to put up a solar panel), just having that experience is really
valuable and not something you would get anywhere else.
As a group do you have any recommendations for us? What should we do
differently? What have we done well, what areas can we improve?
You guys have all the answers just as much as we do. Just keep asking questions,
even if they’re repetitive. If you think of an idea, do it if you can get signed off on it. Don’t
feel constrained by what we’ve done before. If you think that something’s not working
and you need to give it a rest for a while. Focus more on things that are working and
focus more on meeting the community. Sometimes they don’t know what they need, so
thinking critically about solutions. IE: first time they came they don’t recycle, but now the
government encourages them. So, if we had given them a recycling program, it would
have been wasteful since the government came in. Don’t stress, it’s not a test all the
time every day. You guys are trying stuff.
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