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Everglades and South Florida Travel Course

Explore the historical and contemporary interactions of people with their environment.

MCLA travel course Florida kayak at sunsetMCLA travel course Florida kayak at sunset
On This Trail

OVERVIEW

Course: ENVI-355, 3 Credits

Professor: Daniel Shustack

Dates: Spring Break ’27, 10 days & 9 Nights
exact dates dependent on final airline scheduling

Travel Costs: $1,550

CONTACT INFO

Professor Shustack

d.shustack@mcla.edu

413-662-5301

 

RESOURCES

Travel Course Scholarships

Global Learning


Course Info

Florida is a state with a rich history, a diverse ecology, and a dynamic present. During this extended field trip, students will explore the historical and contemporary interactions of people with their environment, with the goal of understanding why modern environmental issues and conditions of ecosystems are the way they are.

The course will consider the human history of Florida, including the Calusa, Spanish colonists, and U.S. settlers, as well as the historical and modern ways people have altered the Florida landscape and lived within it.

Through visits to preserves, parks, and natural areas, students will learn about and explore the ecology, characteristic species, natural communities, and ecosystems of Florida. A series of site visits and on-site presentations will examine modern conservation issues confronting Florida, including agricultural practices, development pressures, Everglades management, threatened and endangered species management, and water conservation.

Students should be prepared for physically demanding days and active participation in all aspects of the course. Throughout the trip, students will be camping in state and federal parks while visiting diverse natural, cultural, and historical sites throughout South Florida.

Eligibility

Enrollment is open to all MCLA students but is limited and requires instructor approval before registration. Students interested in participating should contact Professor Shustack to discuss whether the course is a good fit. Professor Shustack has been taking MCLA students to South Florida and the Everglades since 2012. He is excited to talk to you about your interest in this region and the course!

Destination Highlights

Explore one of the world's most significant wetland ecosystems while investigating habitats, wildlife, estuaries, mangrove systems, restoration efforts, and Everglades ecology.  

Investigate coastal ecology, reefs, tourism, geology, and the unique environmental conditions of the Florida Keys, including opportunities for snorkeling and marine observation.

Investigate coastal ecology, reefs, tourism, geology, and the unique environmental conditions of the Florida Keys, including opportunities for snorkeling and marine observation.

Examine Florida's prairie ecosystems, cattle industry, fire ecology, rare birds, burrowing owls, and habitat management.

Study water management, agriculture, sugar production, restoration efforts, and the connections between agricultural practices and ecosystem conservation.

Visit locations that highlight dunes, beaches, wildlife management, coastal ecology, bird conservation, and land conservation practices.

 

Everglades wildlife

Learning Objectives

  • Explore the historical and contemporary interactions between people and the environment in South Florida.
  • Learn about the ecology, characteristic species, natural communities, and ecosystems of Florida.
  • Examine major conservation issues including agricultural practices, development pressures, Everglades management, threatened and endangered species management, and water conservation.
  • Understand how human history and environmental change have shaped modern Florida landscapes and ecosystems.
  • Apply field-based observation, research, presentation, and reflective learning skills throughout the travel experience.

Cost: $1,550

Includes:

  • Airfare
  • Ground transportation in Florida
  • Transportation to and from the airport
  • Camping accommodations
  • Admission fees and scheduled activities
  • Snacks, all meals, and beverages during the trip
  • Group camping equipment and cooking supplies

    Not Included

  • Airport food
  • Souvenirs
  • Laundry expenses
  • Optional snacks and soft drinks
  • Personal clothing and hygiene products

Payment Schedule:

  • $775 deposit due Oct. 16, 2026
  • $775 balance due Jan. 29, 2027

Prior to spring break travel, students will complete required readings, attend class meetings, and prepare two research reports focused on species, ecosystems, and topics that we will encounter during the trip. Two two-hour planning sessions will be scheduled early in the semester based on participants' availability. Students will also schedule two additional individual or small group meetings with Dr. Shustack to discuss course readings and research projects. During the travel portion of the course, students will maintain a field journal documenting their observations, experiences, and reflections from their time in South Florida.

This is an intensive field-based course. Days are long but rewarding and will include hikes, tours, swimming, paddling, wildlife observation, meetings with conservation professionals, ranger programs, and ecological exploration. Students will camp throughout the trip and prepare group meals together at campsites. Participants should be comfortable being active for extended periods outdoors and should be willing to engage fully in all course activities. Stamina, flexibility, curiosity, and a spirit of adventure are important qualities for success in the course.



Contact Info

Professor Shustack
MCLA travel course Florida trail