Mayterm Classes

BIOL 396 – Boreal Ecology:

Adirondacks to Alaska!  A study of plants, animals, and ecosystems from the southern limits of boreal ecosystems in the 9,400 square mile Adirondack Park to the northern limits of the ecosystem in Alaska.  After 1 week of study in the Adirondacks, we fly to Alaska and visit forested and coastal ecosystems, observing moose, bald eagles, killer whales, humpback whales, Steller sea lions, harbor seals, and porpoises in the wild as well as learning about glaciers and glaciated landscapes.  Travel to Denali National Park for several days to observe the charismatic mega fauna (moose, caribou, grizzly bears, wolves, etc) in the 8,000 square mile park is included. Camping and hiking are part of the experience.  The $1500 cost covers airfare, food, camping and travel expenses.   Taught by James Wolfe, Houghton College. 4 credits.  For Biology majors or permission of instructor.  May 15 through June 9

REC 395 – Wilderness First Responder

The Wilderness First Responder curriculum uses the principles of long-term care, improvised resources, and varying environmental conditions as the framework for learning. Now the most widely recognized and most often required outdoor leader certification, the Wilderness First Responder course was first developed and taught by SOLO in the mid-1980's. Created to provide outdoor leaders, guides, and rangers with the knowledge needed to deal with crises in remote settings, this 80-hour certification course meets DOT National Standards for First Responder with additional protocols for extended-care situations. Like all SOLO programs, the emphasis of the WFR is on prevention and decision-making. The SOLO WFR addresses the issues of medico legal concerns, blood borne pathogens and infectious diseases. The Patient Assessment System, the foundation of the course, trains students to determine what is going on with backcountry patients. Other sessions provide instruction in traumatic situations as well as medical emergencies. Environmental issues such as hypothermia and heat injuries are dealt with in great detail. Practical simulations and labs provide practice in backcountry leadership and rescue skills. The intensive 80-hour curriculum takes place over ten days. Taught by Ken Heck, Messiah College.

BIOL 395 - Birds/Ornithology of the Adirondacks

A field oriented course focusing on the resident and migrant birds of the Adirondack region.  Topics include anatomy and physiology, ecology, and field identification of birds.  Bald eagles and loons may be observed in the local Star Lake area.  Field trips to wetland and mountain areas are planned. Taught by Alan Belford, 4 credits  May 15 through June 10.