Join us in Chile to explore the stunning and ecologically fascinating landscapes of Chilean Patagonia, from the Andes Mountains to the Pacific Ocean and everything in between. Patagonia was one of the last places in the world to be explored and remains one of the most rugged and remote on Earth. The Los Lagos region, located in Northern Patagonia, is characterized by diverse landscapes and unique species, many of which are endemic. Be prepared to immerse yourself in a learning environment amidst a backdrop of ancient rainforests, active volcanoes, expansive fjords, glacially carved mountains, and a coastal environment teeming with marine life. During the program, students will become familiar with the diversity of life that characterizes the region, the physical factors that shape the area’s landscape, and pressing environmental challenges. Students will learn through immersive field lectures, interactions with guest speakers, and field journal assignments, while gaining direct exposure to on-the-ground conservation movements and sustainability projects. Students can expect to become global citizens prepared to take what they learn on the program and apply it to their future careers.
Background Information
Spanning nearly 40 degrees of latitude, Chile is a land of extremes. From the Atacama Desert in the north to glaciers in the far south, this narrow strip of land supports nearly every major ecosystem on Earth. The country’s position on the Pacific Ring of Fire drives intense seismic activity, fuels volcanoes, and creates the towering Andes Mountains, which stretch the length of the country. In addition to active geology, the westerly winds blow uninterrupted across the Pacific Ocean collecting and releasing moisture on the Chilean side of the Andes, supporting the formation of glaciers and allowing for temperate rainforests to flourish. Together, these dynamic forces have shaped Patagonia, making this southern region of South America one of the most remote and captivating places on the planet.
The Los Lagos region, where our field study takes place, is the northern gateway to Chilean Patagonia. Much of it is covered by the Valdivian temperate forest, where species have remained relatively isolated since the breakup of Gondwana 200 million years ago. Isolation has created ideal conditions for the evolution of unique flora and fauna. Massive alerce trees, which can be 5,000 years old, tower overhead, while tiny creatures such as the pudu, the world’s smallest deer, can be found hidden in the understory. Aptly nicknamed the ‘Land of Miniatures and Giants,’ this ecoregion within Patagonia is characterized by extraordinary diversity and a high degree of endemism.
Although this region remained largely untouched for millions of years, humans have altered the landscape. The first human inhabitants migrated to Patagonia approximately 15,000 years ago and lived nomadically, relying on the region’s megafauna as their source of food. By the time Europeans arrived in the 1500s, humans were a key component of the environment and several species in the region had disappeared due to both human pressure and climatic changes. European contact had a huge influence on the livelihood of the native people, and livestock soon became embedded in the culture. Despite rampant diseases and ensuing conflicts between native groups and the Europeans, the Mapuche people were able to persevere and are the most prevalent Indigenous group in Chile today.
Though Patagonia remains wild and relatively inaccessible, its ecosystems have been altered by agriculture, hunting, deforestation, and introduced species, leaving many native species threatened. The impacts of climate change are also being felt across the region with warmer temperatures causing glaciers to retreat at an unprecedented rate. In the face of deteriorating ecosystems, conservation measures such as the establishment of national parks and private reserves have been spearheaded by the Chilean government and local conservationists. These efforts seek to create sustainable livelihoods for local communities while protecting biodiversity. Even with impressive conservation measures in place, challenges remain, ranging from unsustainable and unregulated resource use to ambitious multinational development plans including new roads, dams, and salmon farming.
Program Goals and Activities
We have multiple goals for our Chile Program. We will make our way around Northern Chilean Patagonia to learn about coastal and terrestrial ecosystems, participate in research, and engage with local communities and various stakeholders to understand pressing environmental challenges, conservation success stories, the connection between science and policy, and the culture of the region. Students will have the opportunity to participate in ecosystem monitoring, and they will complete individual and group research projects. We will be based out of field stations, private conservation parks, and remote campgrounds as we hone our skills as naturalists and learn through observation, discussions, journaling, and lectures. The overarching themes that will be covered during the program are described below.
Patagonian Ecosystems, Biogeography, and Natural History
How did the various ecosystems that comprise Patagonia form? What flora and fauna exist in the region? Why is the geography of Chile the perfect setting for the evolution of endemic species? Students will answer these questions and more by exploring interesting geologic phenomena, including the site of a recent volcanic eruption, backpacking through the Andes while identifying key species, and discussing what it means to be a naturalist and learning about Darwin’s early investigations in the area. Through field study within the Los Lagos region of Patagonia, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the interconnectedness between geology and ecology, and how ecological pressures facilitate the evolution of unique species.
Climate, Carbon Cycles, and a Changing Environment
What is the Keeling Curve? How do volcanoes, mountains, wetlands, and the ocean impact the carbon cycle? What is the status of the glaciers in the region? Using Chile as a natural laboratory, students will learn how mountains and the ocean play a critical role in regulating the planet’s climate, why these ecosystems are sensitive to change, and the global implications of melting ice and climate change.
The Importance of Monitoring, Research, Collaborations, and Critical Thinking
How are conservation efforts being implemented across Patagonia? How do scientists predict when volcanic eruptions will take place? What types of marine debris are the most prominent on the Pacific Coast compared to within estuaries? Students will have the opportunity to spend extended periods of time at field stations where they will be able to interact with local researchers and conservationists. Students will critically analyze scientific manuscripts, complete a project focused on marine debris, and assist with ongoing monitoring efforts. Students will ask their own questions, collect data, analyze results, consult scientific literature, and work in small groups to develop their own research projects. Through active participation in the scientific process, coupled with field observations, unique wildlife encounters, and engaging with experts, students will learn to think critically about complex environmental issues.
Culture and Society of Patagonia and Chile: Past, Present, and Future
What did Patagonia look like when it was originally settled by humans? How did European contact influence the culture of the region? How have people persisted in such a rugged and remote environment and how will they adapt to future changes? From the early settlement of the region to modern Chilean society, students will gain an in-depth understanding of the rich history and culture that exists in this part of the world with an emphasis on indigenous perspectives.
Environmental Policy, Sustainability, Wildland Conservation, and Social Science
Is the salmon fishery in Chile considered sustainable? How is land managed in Chile and how can private parks be used to create conservation corridors? What strategies are being used to manage invasive species? Should the environment itself be a stakeholder when deciding on policies? Questions pertaining to conservation challenges, environmental pressures, and sustainability will be discussed and analyzed. Students will engage with stakeholders, critically analyze environmental policy case studies, and investigate the human element of environmental science.
Energy and the Environment
With large river systems, steady winds, active geology, and expansive forests, are renewable sources of energy being used in Chile? Students will learn about different energy sources, discuss the pros and cons of each, and critically make connections between energy production, carbon cycling, and global climate.
Note that prior field research experience is not required. All necessary skills of data acquisition will be taught on-site in Chile. Our primary requirement is that you are enthusiastic, adaptable, genuinely open-minded, and ready and willing to learn. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Academic Credit
Students will receive 15 quarter credits/10 semester credits from Western Washington University. Our staff will be happy to explain the program in further detail to the applicant’s advisor, if necessary. This field studies program gives credit in three courses:
Environmental Wildlands Studies (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Environmental Field Survey (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Wildlands Environment and Culture (5 quarter credits/3.35 semester credits)
Letter grades are based upon: 1) active participation in our learning process and activities; 2) examinations and other graded assignments; and 3) implementation and presentation of independent research projects.
Team members are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner. Wildlands Studies reserves the right to require any student to withdraw from the program if their conduct is detrimental to or incompatible with the interests, safety, or welfare of any course participants. We ask all students to read the Student Program Manual before joining the program on-site.
Team Logistics
Participants will fly into and depart from Puerto Montt, Chile. Participants can decide whether to fly home on the scheduled date or remain in Chile to travel on their own.
All reasonable efforts will be made to follow the activities outlined above. However, please understand that on our Chile Patagonia program, travel arrangements can remain tentative until the traveling actually takes place. Weather conditions, road closures, volcanic activity, as well as political and bureaucratic considerations may affect our plans. Wildlands Studies has put together an innovative, unique program in Patagonia, and team members need to be flexible, patient, and prepared to adapt to unexpected situations.
Accommodations
Primarily camping, backpacking, occasional youth hostel or rural lodge.
FOOD
Food is handled differently on each of our programs. Participants on this program will be responsible for purchasing and cooking approximately one-third of their meals. The remaining meals will be provided by Wildlands Studies as group meals. Participants will also be responsible for purchasing snacks. Detailed information about food management will be provided in the Logistics Packet. If you have dietary questions or concerns, please call our office.
Essential equipment
Gear requirements vary by program based on climate, academic focus, and location. For this program, students must supply all their own gear, including a high-quality waterproof tent, warm sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpacking stove, cooking gear and backpacking pack. Students who don't already own these items should factor them into their budget. A detailed gear list will be provided in the Logistics Packet.
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
Each participant’s personal health and well-being are crucial to the success of the program and the health and well-being of its other participants. Participants must arrive to the program having reviewed our Health and Well-Being Page.
Official Documents/Visa
You will need a current passport that does not expire until six months after the end of the program. U.S. citizens are no longer required to pay the Entry Reciprocity Fee upon arrival at the Santiago Airport. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to verify if you are or are not required to pay this Reciprocity Fee prior to entering Chile.
Language
This program is taught in English, although many of the research stations and locations we visit will speak Spanish. The ability to speak Spanish is not a course prerequisite. The Instructor and other staff will translate as needed. Of course, it is always helpful to speak Spanish, and if you have the chance, please practice or brush up on your Spanish-speaking skills before the program initiates.
Pre-Program Logistics Packet
Detailed information regarding travel/flight and visa information, equipment/gear requirements, food costs, meeting plans, group expenses payment, medical and vaccination recommendations and academic preparations will be sent to all team members in a logistics letter emailed about ten to twelve weeks before the program initiates.
