Travel to Yellowstone National Park with biology, geography and geology
Released: November 27, 2006
Imagine taking a trip through the Black Hills of S.D., around Makoshika Park of Glendive, Mont. and into Yellowstone National Park in Wyo. Picture the wildlife, the mountains, the fossil beds, the mines and the caves one might see throughout their journey. Well imagine no longer. The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater departments of biological sciences and geography/geology will offer this once-in-a-lifetime experience to all students interested in studying ecology and geology from Aug. 6-24, 2007.
"This is not just a science course," George Clokey of biological sciences said. "Throughout the trip students will learn basic techniques such as mammal trapping, water chemistry and many other field methods. This trip is a chance for students to experience a new world. A lot of students haven't been west of Minnesota so this will give them a chance to really gain an appreciation for the U.S."
Lead by Clokey and Bruce Eshelman of biological sciences and Rex Hanger of geography/geology, 15 - 20 students and faculty will embark on a 19-day journey to learn about topics such as carnivore ecology, botany, mining, fire ecology and paleontology. Students will also learn about the environmental impact of humans on the animal and plant communities of the park and surrounding regions. They'll have a chance to explore topics ranging from the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone to the religious significance of the Black Hills to Native Americans.
"Kindergarten through grade 12 teachers who plan on taking the trip can use this course to their advantage," Clokey said. "Since we will be traveling through Federal lands around the Black Hills and Yellowstone, teachers will have a chance to pick up fossils, rocks and animal track castings and bring them back to help teach their classes."
While traveling throughout Yellowstone National Park and the Upper Great Plains, students and faculty will stay in local motels. The K Bar Z Guest Ranch in Cody, Wyo. will be the travelers' primary residence from Aug. 11-22.
Three undergraduate and graduate credits will be included in the cost of the program. The cost of the 19-day tour is estimated at $2,200 and includes 18 nights, transportation, meal allowance, entrance fees and the tuition for the undergraduate and graduate credits.
Students and faculty interested in taking the trip must pick up a registration package from Terry Behlke of continuing education (262-472-1003) and register by March 1, 2007. Those who plan on going on the trip that do not currently attend UW-Whitewater as a student or faculty member will need to register as a special student at the Continuing Education office.
For more information, contact Clokey at (262) 472-5140 or clokeyg@uww.edu.- Chad Guild,guildca16@uww.edu
