On the Expedition
Help lead the way in urban ecosystem research and show how the environment can be protected in and near the places most of us live.
At research sites in and around New York City as well as in some rural areas within 100 miles, you’ll study a range of wild small mammal species (mice, voles, raccoons, possibly coyotes or even small bears) and the quality of their varied habitats. You may track and camera-trap mammals, construct devices that “record” animal tracks and interpret the results, and learn about trap-and-release techniques for studying small mammals. Each day you’ll also be able to learn about the “big picture” of the research, gain skills in a variety of field research methods, or hear about other research topics from guest speakers.
In your recreational time, or before or after your expedition, New York City offers a staggering array of theatre, museums, historic landmarks, restaurants, and culture.
Meals and Accommodations
Teams will be housed at the Blue Mountain Park Lodge in Peekskill, New York. Blue Mountain Park is a beautiful, mixed-hardwood forest along the east shore of the Hudson River, approximately 40 miles north of New York City. This 1,500-acre forest is part of the Westchester County Parks system, with extensive hiking trails for nature study and exploration. The lodge has two wings, one for men and one for women, each with a single large dormitory-style room and hot showers. Breakfasts and lunches will be self-serve. A staff cook will prepare evening meals based on the team’s preferences.
About the Research Area
You’ll conduct research within various protected areas in the greater New York metropolitan area, within 100 miles of Manhattan, New York—moving from urban to suburban to rural landscapes. The most urban parks will largely feature temperate mixed hardwood trees such as oak, maple, hickory, and beech trees, surrounded by residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. Even these urban research sites have a long record of preservation—in some cases more than 100 years—and are enjoyable, interesting, and safe natural areas to work in.
The most rural parks will be set within continuous forest broken up only by occasional residential properties and farms. These rural sites are representative of the beautiful landscapes of New England and New York state forests.
New York City is a thriving, energetic urban center and is the center of the most densely populated urban region in North America. It is host to countless museums, restaurants, theaters, and other cultural and historical attractions. Downtown New York City is an hour train ride from the field headquarters.