class update

Tropical Silviculture
4 hour lab, 2 hour lecture. A mix of botany, ecology, and forestry.
Last class, we went around a small part of the campus and ID'ed a few species in the midst of a leaf cutter ant colony about 15' in diameter. In the classroom we learned about the optimum time schedule for harvesting wood based on biological, economical, and technical production curves... also discussed the idea of sustainable developement (does it even mean anything these days). A good portion of this class goes over my head due to the technical nature of the vocabulary in spanish. Still is very interesting.

Tropical Crops
A practical experience-based class. We are working in groups of 6, with each group in charge of growing a 10m X 20m plot each of frijoles, maíz, squash, and rice. We are also growing mixed vegetables in between rows of other crops. Too bad we only have 15 weeks. Can't wait to get some real life experience with plants (in contrast to the theoretical side emphasized at the University of Michigan).

Work Experience - Tropical Forestry
Only work experience, no discussion or tests. I'm working with some of the first year students at the tree nursery. Work starts at 6am lasting until 11. During our break we picked some coconuts for everyone to drink.