program info | courses | field conditions | instructor | costs
The wilderness is a wonderful place to learn. There, free of the distractions of campus life, you have the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the natural world. Each day is a full and intense learning experience -- there are enough plants and animals in California for several lifetimes of study. Therefore, the primary course requirement is your commitment to and enthusiasm for learning. We have high expectations for the amount of work and enjoyment of learning we will share together this spring.
On major field trips, we will use vans to drive to a field station or base camp. There we will settle in, establish class routines, and immerse ourselves in the place and our work. Each day will be unique as we explore a different area or aspect of natural history. Sometimes we will hike all day, other times we will work near camp. Regardless of distance or pace, academics will be the primary focus. You will be expected to maintain a thorough and comprehensive field journal, chronicling your observations and experiences. In addition, there will be lectures, presentations, and discussions whenever appropriate, day or night. We try to structure our trips to ensure a balance between group activities and personal natural history exploration.
The living conditions and travel schedule of Field Quarter create unique demands on students. Extended periods away from home, long distance travel, hiking, and living in primitive conditions are part of the program. Participants must have the social maturity to live, study, and work very closely with others in a variety of field situations. As a member of a small close-knit group, you should expect to share skills, knowledge, and enthusiasm with your companions. Our goal is to stimulate supportive, cooperative learning throughout the quarter.
Living and studying in the field are rewarding but physically demanding. Field Quarter involves hard all-day hiking, tight long-distance car travel, and close living quarters. A serious commitment to cooperation and a spirited attitude will alleviate much soreness and enhance for us all the joy and learning of the experience. Previous backcountry camping and hiking experience is useful but not required. You must, however, be in good physical condition, able to hike all day (up to 5-10 miles) with a loaded daypack, and have no chronic/debilitating injuries.
We work hard to provide a safe learning environment in the outdoor classroom. You must be aware of the normal risks of fieldwork in California including, but not limited to, snake and tick bites, cactus spines, lightning storms, rough trails, etc. In general, we will be away from typical emergency response services, hospitals, and medical assistance. In the event of an emergency we will do our best to get you to proper care. We will also establish basic safety procedures at the beginning of the program. To minimize the risk of injury in rough country, extended solo hiking, technical rock climbing, rafting, and other personal recreational activities are not allowed. Similarly, drugs, alcohol, and inappropriate personal conduct are not permitted. The Sierra Institute reserves the right to dismiss anyone who is a danger to the land, herself/himself, or other group members.
Participants provide their own personal equipment. A detailed equipment list will be sent upon acceptance.
Food is an important part of staying happy and healthy on Field Quarter. To save time, money, and to have more fun, we prepare meals communally. Food costs are split equally among all participants. Group cooking gear will be provided, but you must supply your own eating utensils, bowls, cups, etc. On each trip, one student group will be designated the food group, responsible for planning menus, collecting money from the rest of the class, purchasing food, and cooking meals. Students from other groups will take turns doing the washing up.
Spring weather in California is volatile and unpredictable. We often experience cold and rain (or snow), wind, and heat and sunshine all on the same trip. Best strategy is to embrace the uncertainty and be prepared for anything.
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program info | courses | field conditions | instructor | costs