Home • Baja California • Island Ecology Program for Local Students

You will explore ecosystem diversity in Baja California Sur, a desert mecca for terrestrial and marine wildlife. This program is an amazing opportunity to assist with authentic research and be an active collaborator in international conservation efforts in the Sea of Cortez, a World Heritage Site.

Espiritu Santo, an island in the 'Gulf Islands' complex, is a protected area outside of La Paz, México. We'll spend a week studying the unique biological diversity of the area both on land and in the water. We'll also restore coastal habitat and compare the island to El Mogote, a nearby mangrove.

The 5-day course includes instruction and activities on desert and island ecology, journal writing, scientific method, kayaking, English, and art.

How to Apply

Applications can be downloaded by clicking on the Application icon to the right.

· Day 1: Arrive at Espiritu Santo Island and get to know your Ecology Project International instructors. Set up camp at the coastal island that will be your home for the next four days.

· Days 2-3: Ecosystem Ecology at Espiritu Santo. You'll join scientists in the monitoring and protection of Espiritu Santo's diverse coastal and marine ecosystems. Students design their own research projects and spend their days surveying marine life, sea birds, and desert vegetation. You'll also restore habitat and review the data you've helped collect.

· Day 4: Presentations and Return to La Paz. Today you'll present your research projects to each other and research staff. We'll reflect on what we've learned while at Espiritu Santo and discuss ways to stay involved. Head home in the afternoon and get some rest in preparation for tomorrow's adventure!

· Day 5: Kayak to El Mogote. El Mogote is a mangrove-covered sand pit that shelters the La Paz harbor and nourishes the diverse fish populations in the Sea of Cortez. We'll kayak to El Magote and collect comparative data for the ecosystems we studied at Espiritu Santo.

Course dates

October - April; contact us for the specific course date that best fits your schedule.

Age

This program is specifically designed for high school students who are seeking a learning experience outside of the classroom that is scientifically authentic and academically rigorous, with an international theme.

Group Size

Our minimum group size is 10, maximum 16. Please contact us to discuss options if you have a smaller or larger group.

Accommodations

While at Espiritu Santo, you will be camping with 2-3 other students in each tent. EPI supplies all group camping gear (tents, sleeping pads, kitchen). Typically, EPI participants and staff will be the only visitors during your stay. There is no running water or electricity on the island.

Tuition

Contact us for pricing.