Field Trips – SEEDS

Beginning in 2018, ESA SEEDS is proud to dedicate its national field trips to the memory of Dr. Henry L. Gholz.

Ecology field trips are the cornerstone through which SEEDS introduces diverse students to the range of ecological systems and research in the United States. Students spend three-four days at an ecologically significant site, such as a field station, research laboratory, or national park, learning about the science of ecology, exploring career options, and seeing the practical applications of ecology. Students have the opportunity to find out more about what ecologists do through hands-on experiences with professionals, to receive training in specific areas, and to build networks with students and professionals.

NSF

Anheuser-Busch Coastal Research Center, Cape Charles, VA (May 1-4, 2025)

The SEEDS program is excited to announce a new National Field Trip from May 1-14, 2025 to the University of Virginia, Coastal Research Center! Located at the edge of the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay near Cape Charles, VA. Since 2006, this field station specializes in the study of long-term dynamics of the barrier islands, lagoons, marshes, and watersheds that shape this constantly changing coastline. Also home to the Virginia Coast Reserve LTER and the worlds largest successful seagrass restoration project this field station offers the perfect location to explore these unique environments. The amazing research team at the CRC is eager to host our SEEDS students and share some hands-on science experience!

Applications will close on February 10, 2025 at midnight.

Find out more here: SEEDS National Field Trip

Student Reactions From Previous Field Trips:

“After a long four days of hiking, bonding, learning about ecology, and meeting new people we reminisced over our experiences. This SEEDS field trip has been eye-opening and comforting as college students who have been struggling to find guidance in the research fields. This experience opened-up options to many of us that we didn’t even know were available, such as job opportunities, connections with professors, grad students, and a great support system. As college students, many of us got more out of SEEDS in the past four days than we’ve been getting at our own colleges for years. SEEDS is a wonderful organization that brings students together through our love for science and nature. We will remember this experience and use the skills we learned to better ourselves and become successful scientists.”

To look at more past trips and detailed trip reports, check out our Past Field Trips page.