Natural Resources: Field Study&Nature Connection

Special topics in natural resources beyond the scope of existing formal courses.

Instructor permission required. Email: Mike Blouin (Michael.R.Blouin@uvm.edu) On campus May 20th 9:00-12:00pm. May 27-June 3 all day travel with overnights. On campus June 10th 9:00-12:00pm. Minimum requirements: Participants should be able to ride a bicycle 20 to 30 miles per day. Bicycles, helmets, panniers, tents, cookware and dinner IS provided. Participants responsible for sleeping bag, sleeping pad, breakfast and lunch food. Students in need of equipment financial support, email instructor. Course fee: $662.00 Special Topics courses cannot carry CC designations

This seven-day Field Studies of Nature and Community course explores how people engage with nature and one another in rural Vermont. While cycling the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail, students will learn from farmers, community-based organizations, and local residents, gaining insight into the region’s environmental stewardship, agricultural traditions, and rural culture. Through direct experiences, discussions, and reflective writing, students will consider land use, food systems, conservation, and the social fabric of small communities. This immersive journey fosters an understanding of the interdependence between people and place in northern New England. Course goals and objectives include: 1. Explore how rural communities interact with the land through farming, conservation, and outdoor recreation. 2. Engage with local experts and organizations to learn about environmental sustainability and rural resilience. 3. Develop a deeper sense of place by observing and reflecting on landscapes, wildlife, and human-nature connections. 3. Strengthen outdoor and community engagement skills through self-supported bicycle travel and group learning. 5. Examine personal and collective relationships with nature through readings, discussions, and field experiences.

This course is experiential and community-engaged, combining cycling, site visits, and group discussions. Students will cycle 20–30 miles per day, stopping to meet farmers, environmental advocates, and community organizers. Evening discussions and reflective journaling will encourage deeper engagement with course themes. All bicycles, helmets, panniers, and transportation are provided. Dinners will be included, while students may need to contribute to their own breakfasts and lunches. Students will camp at designated sites each night, with tents and stoves provided. Participants should bring their own sleeping bag and sleeping pad. Students should be prepared for outdoor learning and moderate physical activity, though no prior bike touring experience is required. Pre-trip preparation may include readings and assignments on Vermont’s environmental and social history, and students can expect to complete a summative post-trip assignment.

Grades will be based on: Participation and engagement: Active involvement in discussions, field visits, and group activities. Reflective journal and field notes: Daily reflections integrating observations and conversations with local experts. Community research project: A group or individual project analyzing a key issue related to land, community, and environmental stewardship. Final presentation: A synthesis of course experiences and insights shared with the group.