Kauai t rip blends learning , s erv ic e , fu n Students of Dr. David Bybee’s conservation biology class felt they made a real difference on their field trip to the island of Kauai. SarahJane Tripp, junior in biology with an emphasis in marine studies, said, “The best part of the whole trip was the knowledge gained and the taste of conservation biology it gave me. I now want conservation biology and all of its causes to be something I fight for.” The field trip began March 25 and ended March 28. Saturday was the class lab day. The students assisted the Navy in conservation efforts to help remove Haole Koa and Long-Thorn Keawe trees, invasive species to Hawaii. Tripp, with a chuckle, said, “We were asked to go over to help them with a mission, and I quote, ‘it was a mission.’” Cierra Fugal, junior in biology with an emphasis in marine studies from Pleasant Grove, Utah, said, “I personally felt I helped make a difference in our environment by taking the initiative and being proactive.” The field trip wasn’t all work though. Friday was their observation day. “We toured the island; we went rope swinging off waterfalls, went snorkeling in underwater caves, and hiked part of the Na Pali Coastline,” said Fugal. “I was surprised we had the- KYLE opportunity to do as much as we did for just the few days H O W ARD we were there. I enjoyed every moment of it. It was the best trip I’ve been on, let alone for school.” Mike Sensenbaugh, junior in IDS-physical therapy from California, shared one of the lighter experiences of the field trip. “While we were all hiking the Na Pali coast, Ivan Goldtooth tripped and did a handstand-somersalt off the trail. We were all laughing until we realized he was hanging off the edge for his life by a plant root.” He was safely brought back to the trail.
–KYLE HOWARD
Above: Higgy Higueria, senior in biology from Oregon, attempts to remove Haole Koa and Long-Thorn Keawe trees from Kauai. Photo courtesy of Tyler Luszeck
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