Credit

Ecology, Evolution and Management of the Gulf of California is a 3 credit, 4100 level class offered through the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Academic Prerequisites

Students must have completed a year-long introductory biology course, such as Ebio 1210 and 1220 or Mcdb 1150 and 2150. Students who have not taken such a course, but think they may nonetheless want to take Ecology, Evolution, and Management of the Gulf of California, should contact Aaron Hirsh (aehirsh@vermilionseainstitute.org) to discuss their application to the course.

Other Requirements

Students should understand that the physical conditions at the Vermilion Sea Field Station can present difficulties and discomforts. Accommodations are very basic: nights are spent on canvas cots by the sea; privacy is somewhat limited; toilets are, well, rustic. Because fresh water is scarce, we generally "shower" in the sea, and occasionally rinse with fresh water. Although there will be a cook from the local town who will do the shopping and prepare much of the food, students will need to assist in cooking, cleaning, washing dishes, and general station maintenance.

August days can be EXTREMELY hot, and time on the boats involves long exposure to the sun. Finally, because we spend so much time snorkeling and on boats on the open water, all participants must be good swimmers.

Cost

The Vermilion Sea Institute will cover half of each student’s expenses for this course. The other half, which amounts to $1350, must be paid by the student. (For exceptional students who are unable to cover this fee, further financial aid may be available; please inquire.) Each student will be responsible for his or her own transportation to and from San Diego, and each student will need to have basic snorkeling equipment.