SFS Tropical Rainforest Management Studies

  Australia

• Queensland: 
Cairns,  Yungaburra

Term: Fall, Spring, Summer 
Dates: inquire for more info

Description: While representing only a small percentage of the worlds rainforest, the astonishing biodiversity of Australias rainforest and the country's dynamic conservation efforts make Queensland an extraordinary laboratory for studying rainforest management and restoration. Recent cyclones have further disturbed the remaining rainforest fragments, raising questions on how to manage these hyper-disturbed areas. Conservation challenges and cutting-edge management strategies developed here will likely serve as a model for conserving the rest of the worlds tropical rainforests.

The ecological and economic benefits of rainforests are increasingly well-understood, but much less is known about rainforest ecosystem dynamics and the ability to restore a rainforest once it has been cleared. Our goals are to help understand the dynamics of rainforest ecosystems, including potential impacts of global climate change, and in turn develop rainforest restoration strategies that benefit both ecosystems and human communities.

Student research work addresses a critical local and regional environmental problem loss and fragmentation of once extensive rainforests, and the environmental policies that are currently under consideration by the local and Commonwealth governments. SFS staff and students, in collaboration with local landholders and stakeholder organizations, focus on enhancing the condition of tropical rainforests, as well as determining how we should regenerate and restore the rainforest on the Atherton Tablelands. Students learn professional field research techniques as they collect data on potential responses to global climate change, habitat use and animal behaviors, resilience to cyclonic events, land use, local resident involvement in restoration projects, and cost effective and ecologically beneficial methods of restoration. Student work represents a vital contribution toward larger studies on global climate change, biological integrity of rainforest fragments, and developing restoration practices to maximize rates of plant growth and colonization by fauna. Students are actively involved in either rainforest replanting or site maintenance with local landcare groups.

Highlights: Work with local tree-planting groups and research organizations and learn from members of the indigenous community to manage forest resources. Learn about the current condition and dynamics of a tropical rainforest ecosystem, including what is happening to this system as a consequence of global climate change. Learn professional level field research skills and participate in community projects to restore tropical rainforests. Explore some of the most exciting natural wonders of Australia.

Degree Level: Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Cost in US$: Inquire for more info.

Experience Required: no

Participants Travel to Australia Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently or in Groups of 4-6 (32 students on site)

Scholarships are Available. SFS scholarships up to 6K; 0% and low interest loans

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

The School for Field Studies's Mission Statement: The School for Field Studies (SFS), an accredited, international non-profit academic institution, provides environmental education and conducts research through its field-based programs. SFS is committed to providing: *Hands-on, field-based interdisciplinary education *Environmental research in partnership with natural resource dependent communities. Our goals are to: *Provide students with a unique and challenging educational and life experience that assists them in successfully advancing their careers as skilled professionals and globally aware citizens; *Work with local community stakeholders to develop models for the sustainable management of their natural resources.

Year Founded: 1980