Program Overview

Land of the Long White Cloud: Ecosystems of New Zealand

This course explores the complex ecological, social, and cultural dimensions of ecology, conservation, and protected area management through an immersive experience in New Zealand. Over 10 days, students will participate in an intensive investigation of conservation and natural resource management across a wide range of New Zealand ecosystems. The course intentionally incorporates learning about Mori culture and history. Additionally, students will meet with New Zealand scientists and practitioners working on aspects of ecology, resource conservation, and protected area management.

Course Details

• Timing: September 9-20, 2026
• Location: New Zealand, with visits to the North Island and South Island
• Activities: Students will participate in forest tours, boat tours, and trail hiking

Faculty Leaders

• Ashley D'Antonio, Associate Professor and Associate Department Head for Forest Ecosystems & Society
• Jacob Bukoski, Assistant Professor and Director of the Forests and Climate Change graduate certificate

Program Overview

The program is open to all Oregon State University students, from all majors and campuses, including Corvallis, Ecampus, OSU Cascades, and dual-enrolled community college students. This short-term experience brings together a vibrant mix of learners: graduate and undergraduate students, online and in-person, from all backgrounds and walks of life. The diversity of the group makes every trip richer, with new ideas, new perspectives, and new connections that make the Oregon State experience truly global.

Academic Information

Students will be exposed to multiple perspectives, requiring them to listen and observe carefully, think critically, and reflect deeply on the complex web of issues facing New Zealand ecosystems. Through this immersive learning experience, students will be able to critically analyze conservation, ecotourism, and protected area management challenges in their home countries.

Institutional Context

The program is part of the College of Forestry at Oregon State University, which acknowledges that its facilities and forests are located on the traditional homelands of a diversity of Indigenous Peoples who were forcibly removed from their lands and relocated to reservations. The college takes thoughtful action to decolonize its practices and ensure a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment for work and study that honors Sovereignty Rights. The college respects the contributions of Indigenous communities and centers its work around the Seventh Generation Principle, incorporating multiple ways of knowing and cultural humility into its understanding and stewardship of natural resources.