Tropical Ecology in Costa Rica
WINTERIM: December 27, 2010 - January 11, 2011

Experience the complexity and beauty of some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the world.  Explore rain forests, cloud forests, active volcanoes, estuaries, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, beaches, and dry tropical forests.

Observe the fauna, flora, and magnificent scenery of this small but diverse country.  See several hundred species of birds including quetzals and macaws; also leatherback turtles, howler monkeys, crocodiles, coatis, sloths and maybe even a jaguarundi.

Study the Costa Rican model for managing natural resources in a tropical country. Investigate ecological issues including sustainable development and ecotourism strategies and challenges.

Experience and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica -- and its traditions of democracy, peace and hospitality.

Application

Request an application from Bobbi Kubish, TNR Room 192 or the International Programs Office, CCC Room 108.  Return completed applications to International Programs with a $250 (nonrefundable) deposit.     Go to the Applications page to find out how to get an application.

Limited enrollment to 25 students – Application deadline:  May 15, however, late applications can be considered only if there is room.  Check with the International Programs Office regarding available positions.

Eligibility

Most study tours are open to all majors and minors, not simply those whose field/s matches the department/s granting credit. For continuing UWSP students a minimum GPA of 2.25 is required.

Priority is given to regularly registered UWSP students, but students from other universities and community members are welcome to apply. All participants will be registered in a college course, for credit or audit at the same cost, and will be expected to participate in the program at an intellectual level.

We process applications on a first come, first serve basis, so early registration is strongly advised. Priority is given to regularly registered UWSP and UW-System students, but others, may participate either for credit or a auditors on a space-available basis and at the same cost. All participants, whether students or auditors and regardless of age, must be able to participate in the program at the college level (and stand up to the considerable physical rigors of this course carrying your luggage on public transit systems and extensive walking are common.)

Academic Credits

Participants enroll for three credits of Natural Resources 407/607: Costa Rica Tropical Ecology (GDR: EL) , with a credit or audit option (same charge for all).  No prerequisites. Graduate credits can  be arranged at an additional cost.

Academic Leader

Leaders include CNR Faculty and Costa Rican Instructors/Naturalists

Costs

Approximately $4,100-4,600
Estimation based on 25 participants

Cost Includes:

• Round-trip airfare (Chicago-San Jose-Chicago)
• UW-System health/travel insurance
• 3 credits UWSP Wisconsin resident undergraduate tuition: approx. $70 surcharge for Minnesota residents (with approved reciprocity) and only a $250 surcharge for non-residents.
• Lodging and most meals
• Lectures
• In-country transportation

Lodging and Travel Information

Although most overnight lodging will be in hotels and ecotourist resorts, the group will camp in participant's tents for 3 nights. Participants should be prepared to travel and live closely with a group of 25 other students (of all ages), adjust to a busy pace, be flexible, and enjoy lots of wonderful experiences.  

Participants will travel in Costa Rica by bus and boat.  Most of the national parks and biological reserves are best viewed by foot on hiking trails.  The trails on this trip vary in length from less than a kilometer to 12 kilometers.  Some of the trails are hilly, muddy and/or rocky.  It is also likely that it will be necessary to wade in water to board boats.  It is recommended that participants make an effort to be in reasonably good physical condition prior to departure for Costa Rica.

Itinerary

Tentative Locations, Parks, and Activities*

• Orientation to Costa Rican culture and ecosystems
• Travel by bus through Braulio Carillo National Park
• Night hikes in a variety of ecosystems
• Coffee and banana plantation visits
• Tour La Tirimbina and La Salva preserves – lowland rain forests - Whitewater raft trip on Rio Sarapiqui
• Welcome party and homestay in Venecia
• Tabacon Hot Springs and Arenal Volcano National Park
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
• Santa Elena attractions including: Butterfly Garden, Cloud Forest Canopy Skywalk, Orchid Garden, Frog Pond, and Sky Trek
• Camp at Santa Rosa National Park-tropical dry forest. Tour of La Casona historical site
• Hike into Naranjo Beach (12 km). Beach and Mangrove Ecology
• Night watch for sea turtles
• Carara National Park tour – transition northern dry and southern wet forests
• Boat to Drake’s Bay. Sea kayak mangroves and explore Corcovado National Park
• Visit Isla del Cano: snorkeling, reef ecology, archeology
• Visit Chirripo/Savegre region – higher elevation forests
• Free time in San Jose: museums, markets, shopping

*Tentative locations, parks and activities – final details are currently being arranged. Most sites will be visited.

Withdrawal

Up to ten weeks before the start of the program, all fees except the initial deposit may be refunded for withdrawal. After that time, airline and housing cancellation charges may be assessed.  If the program would be canceled, all fees will be refunded. Because exchange rates and airline prices fluctuate, International Programs reserves the right to cancel, surcharge, or to alter the program.

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