We are excited to provide students with unparalleled learning opportunities in America’s tropical island paradise. As we circumnavigate one of the most spectacular island systems on the planet, students will trek across lava fields, snorkel coral reef decorated with colorful fish, and immerse themselves in lush tropical forests adorned with waterfalls.

On the Big Island of Hawaii, our team will conduct a first-hand examination of how island systems form and why they provide the ideal environment for unique species to evolve. We will gain an acute awareness of the challenges faced by this fragile environment due to changing ocean conditions, introduction of exotic species, and human development. Our team will partake in several scientific investigations through monitoring efforts, the completion of a marine debris project, fish diversity study, and examination of the impacts of the trade winds on the island’s ecosystem. And become familiar with Native Hawaiian culture and traditions. By the end of this program, students will have honed their skills as naturalists and gained a deep ecological understanding of the striking volcanic peaks, marine environments, and rich culture that define the Hawaiian Islands.

Background Information

Hawaii, located over 2,000 miles southwest of the contiguous United States in the North Pacific Ocean, is one of the only locations on earth where it is possible to witness physical and ecological development of island systems through active volcanism. Formed at the end of the Cretaceous Period approximately 70 million years ago, the Hawaiian archipelago is comprised of 132 islands, atolls, reefs, shallow banks, and seamounts that extend for over 1500 miles, providing sanctuaries for marine life, seabirds, and diverse species of plants.

Our field study will take us to the Big Island of Hawaii. The island of Hawaii is the youngest and largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is comprised of five separate shield volcanoes each with unique environments rich in biodiversity, endemic species, varying climates, and conservation challenges. The south end of the island hosts Volcanoes National Park, a sanctuary of volcanic and geologic phenomena, including recent lava flows, rainforests, deep craters, lava deserts, remote beaches, and excitingly, Kilauea, one of the most active volcanoes on Earth. Hawaii’s windward, eastern side of the island receives an average of 130 inches of rainfall a year, supporting lush rainforests and towering waterfalls. Soaring to a height of over 13,500 feet, Mauna Loa sits on the northwest corner of the Big Island, the largest active volcano on the globe and to the east is Mauna Kea, the highest mountain in Hawaii and home to an astronomical observatory, and often, snow!

Although the Hawaiian Islands are geographically isolated, they face existing and emerging environmental stressors that threaten the rich diversity of life that thrives on these islands and in the surrounding marine environment. A rapidly changing environment highlights the importance of research and monitoring efforts so that long term biological and physical trends can be determined. Students on this program will become skilled at identifying the flora, fauna, and geological features that characterize the landscape, and have the opportunity to assist in research and conservation efforts.

Program Goals and Activities

Our overarching goal on this program is for students to learn key field research skills designed to support the environmental sustainability of the islands, participate in local conservation projects, and become acquainted with the region’s diverse ecology and cultural history. Where possible, we will connect with local conservation groups and discuss current management challenges with local researchers. As we hone our skills as naturalists and learn through observation, discussions, journaling, and lectures, our field studies will be based out of national parks, remote campgrounds, and small towns.

Island Biogeography and Natural History
How did the Hawaiian Islands form? What flora and fauna exist in Hawaii? Why are these islands the perfect setting for the evolution of endemic species? Students will answer these questions and more by exploring interesting geologic phenomena, including lava flows, giant craters, steam vents, and lava tubs, and hiking through rainforests to identify key species. Through investigations of both the youngest and the oldest sections of the Big Island, student will gain an in depth understanding of the interconnectedness between geology and ecology, and how islands change over time and facilitate the evolution of unique species.

Changing Seas, Coral Reefs, and Climate
Why do some corals appear white, while others are more colorful? Why did Hawaii recently ban sunscreens that contain the chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate? Students will learn how coral reef ecosystems develop over thousands of years and why these delicate ecosystems are so sensitive to change. Students will have the opportunity to snorkel and complete studies on coral reefs, and investigate how warmer seawater, ocean acidification, pollution, and rising sea level may alter the marine environment. Students will also learn how the ocean plays a key role in carbon cycles and regulates the climate on our planet.

The Importance of Monitoring, Research, Collaborations, and Critical Thinking
What is the Keeling Curve? How do scientists predict when volcanic eruptions will take place? Students will learn about Hawaii’s impressive monitoring and observation systems that have produced robust data sets and yielded some of the most important scientific discoveries of the 20th century. Students will critically analyze scientific manuscripts and work in small groups to design their own research project. They will also complete a class project focused on marine debris. Through active participation in the scientific process, coupled with field observations, unique wildlife encounters, and engaging with experts, students will learn to think critically about complex environmental issues.

Hawaiian Culture and Society: Past, Present, and Future
What navigational tools and environmental cues did the Polynesians rely on as they embarked on long oceanic voyages across the Pacific? How has the dynamic Hawaiian landscape influenced the traditions and beliefs of the Hawaiian people? From the early settlement of Hawaii to modern society, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the rich culture that exists in Hawaii, the deep connection that exists between Native Hawaiians and the environment, and the struggles that they have faced to preserve their culture and identity. Students will visit historical sites and ruins while learning about ancient legends and deities, and come to understand the concept of “aloha” and how it embodies the spirit of both past and present-day Hawaiian society.

Environmental Policy, Sustainability, Conservation, and Social Science
What steps were taken to establish the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, and how is this large marine protected area managed? Are sustainable farming methods being used on Hawaii’s farmlands, which encompass approximately 40% of the land? What measures have been taken by fisheries to mitigate bycatch? Conservation challenges, environmental pressures, economic growth, and sustainable methods of farming and fishing will be discussed and analyzed. Students will engage with stakeholders, critically analyze environmental policy case studies, and investigate the human element of environmental science.

Energy and the Environment
With active geology, steady trade winds, and large waves, are renewable energy sources being utilized in Hawaii? Students will learn about different energy sources, discuss the pros and cons of each, and critically make connections between energy production, carbon cycling, and global climate.

No prior field research experience is required. All field methods and skills for data acquisition will be taught on this course. We expect students to have a positive and engaging attitude throughout the course. In exchange, they will be rewarded with an incredible experience, exploring a region whose unique landscape and culture has touched those who visit and whose ecosystems remain largely unexplored.

Academic Credit

Students will receive 15 quarter credits/10 semester credits from Western Washington University. Our staff will be happy to explain the program in further detail to the applicant’s advisor, if necessary. This field studies program gives credit in three courses: 

ESCI 437A, Environmental Wildlands Studies (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)

ESCI 437B, Environmental Field Survey (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)

ESCI 437C, Wildlands Environment and Culture (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)

Students will be evaluated on the basis of: 1) active participation in our learning process and activities; 2) examinations and quizzes; 3) field journals; 4) independent research essays/presentations; and 5) development and presentation of a group research project.

Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner. Wildlands Studies reserves the right to require any student to withdraw from the program if their conduct is detrimental to or incompatible with the interests, safety, or welfare of any course participants.  We ask all students to read the Student Program Manual before joining the program on-site.

Team Logistics

Participants will arrive and depart from the Kona International Airport on the Big Island of Hawaii. At the end of the program, you can decide whether you want to fly home on the scheduled date or remain in Hawai’i to travel on your own.

All reasonable efforts will be made to follow the activities outlined above. We plan to visit different regions throughout the Big Island during our time in Hawai’i. Please understand that the posted itinerary remains tentative until the traveling actually takes place. Weather conditions, road closures, and other environmental considerations may affect our plans. Wildlands Studies has put together an innovative, unique program in Hawai’i, and team members need to be flexible, patient, and prepared to adapt to unexpected situations. Being flexible also allows us to take advantage of unique opportunities that inadvertently arise during our journeys, often producing some of the program’s most memorable moments.

Accommodations

We will be using a combination of tent camping, backpacking, and indoor lodging.  While indoor lodging and some campgrounds will have facilities such as restrooms and showers, backpacking and some campgrounds will be primitive with no developed facilities.

Official Documents/Visa/Insurance

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you will need a current passport that does not expire until after the end of the program. Contact your country’s Consulate Office to determine if you need a tourist visa to enter the U.S.

Language

The course will be taught in English.

Pre-Program Mailings

Detailed information regarding travel, equipment requirements, food costs, meeting plans, group expenses payment, medical recommendations, and academic preparations will be sent to all team members in a logistics email about 8 weeks before the start of the program.