Description

Volcanic Origins
In Central California, hidden in the valley of the Bodie Hills just east of Yosemite, sits beautiful Mono Lake. This ancient volcanic basin is home to an otherworldly landscape of tufas natural columns formed by the unique chemical composition of the water that rise out of the lake in eerie shapes and patterns. You will feel like you have landed in another world as you explore this surreal landscape.

The City to the South
In 1941, two of the tributaries that feed into Mono Lake were drained to become city water for Los Angeles, about 350 miles to the south. With less water feeding into the lake, the salt and alkali levels jumped, damaging the lake's unique ecosystem and threatening the habitat of the animals, plants and birds that live and nest near it. The water from these tributaries is still being diverted to Los Angeles, and the rainfall and other tributary streams do not supply enough for Mono to maintain its delicate balance.

Conserve and Protect
Your time at Mono Lake will help protect this fragile environment, and you will learn a lot about conservation along the way. Jump in the water and identify invasive species that are outcompeting the lake's native flora and fauna and learn how to control their growth in a rapidly changing ecosystem. You will get dirty and work hard, but the projects will be fun and your efforts will help ensure that the beauty of this area is preserved for generations to come.

Natural Beauty
When you take a break from service at the lake, you can explore beautiful Northern California. Check out the sights of San Francisco, one of the most eclectic and vibrant cities in the country, and lend a hand at a local farm. Yosemite National Park is just around the corner from Mono Lake, and you will also spend some time exploring this national treasure.

Who Should Come?
If you are interested in environmental conservation and aren't afraid to get your hands dirty during rewarding service projects, then this is the program for you! You will earn 25 community service hours for full participation in this program.

Highlights

MARVEL at the majesty of Yosemite National Park, one of the nation's first conservation areas and most incredible parks.

HELP preserve the unique ecosystems and environments of Mono Lake by identifying invasive species, monitoring water levels, and planting local grasses.

ENJOY the eclectic vibe of San Francisco, a lively city that is at the forefront of environmental conservation.

EXPLORE an abandoned Gold Rush ghost town.

WONDER at the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Lake as you learn about environmental conservation and what you can do to help preserve America's incredible natural wonders.

Qualifications

Students must be 14-years old and up to participate on the program. Additionally, participants must submit an application through the Rustic Pathways website and complete the appropriate documents before traveling on the program.

Type of Programs

• Community Service / Volunteerism

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

USD 1,795

Cost Includes:

• Travel while in host country
• Housing
• Food
• Excursions
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Written materials pre-departure
• Written materials abroad

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, all supplies for the volunteer projects and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Conservation
• Environment
• Geology
• Planting
• Water

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel

in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983