Introduction to Field Biology

This course is for High School students and recent High School graduates. This course is offered as a partnership between the Gunnison School District and the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory.
Dates: July 24- Aug.4, 2023
Length of time: 2 weeks, Mon-Fri at least 9-5:00 with 1-2 evening sessions and one early morning session. On-site housing is not available. Students must make their own arrangements to live off-site.
Course Description: The goal of this course is to teach the process of conducting biological research in the natural world. Course activities include making natural history observations, asking research questions, and working with scientists on topics as diverse as plant biology, pollination, stream ecology, and animal behavior. Students will work individually or in small groups to conduct their own research projects under the guidance of instructors. Students will have access to modern scientific equipment, including GEOXT GPS units and GIS software, drying ovens, microbalances, and a microscope/camera set-up.
Class size: 13 students. Students may register on a first-come, first-served basis.
Instructor: The high school instructor will teach the course, in collaboration with Dr. Jill Anderson and other RMBL scientists.
Pre-Requisites: One year of HS biology, except by permission of the instructor.

Program Cost:
- $1,760 for students outside of the Gunnison District.
- Local Crested Butte, Gunnison, and Lake City students pay $1,610, if they register by March 1.
- After March 1, Crested Butte or Gunnison students can register for $1,760.
- For all students, a $500 deposit is required to hold a spot.
- The balance of the fee is due by June 1.
- There is a $25 non-refundable registration fee once your application has been accepted.
- Limited scholarships are available to students in the Gunnison Watershed School District.

COVID-19 Statement
In order to keep students, scientists, and staff healthy in light of COVID-19, for Summer 2023, all participants in RMBL programs will be required to follow the RMBL COVID-19 health and safety plan, which will include proof of vaccination, and may include mask-wearing, hand-washing, personal distancing, and group size limits. Vaccine exemptions will be considered, as required by law.

RMBL is an equal opportunity service provider and employer and operates under a Special Use Permit from the USDA Forest Service, GMUG National Forest.