Dear Student:

Thailand is simply one of the most beautiful, friendly, sensuous and delicious places on earth. Rainforests, coral reefs, mangroves, dry-monsoon forests! It is a brilliant place to do field work, to study and to learn from the many cultures who live in an incredibly diverse environment. I have taught college courses here for a few years and it has become one of my favorite tropical places in which to learn about environmental sciences, ethics and public policy.

In so many ways, Thailand is an environmental leader in southeast Asia. Yes, it has many challenges with urban sprawl, agriculture, coastal over-development and deforestation amongst them. It is dealing with these problems in interesting and creative ways. Thailand is unique in southeast Asia in having never been occupied by a western colonial power. It is a democracy, with a beloved King, that is obviously striving to achieve its people's vast potential. Thai Theravadin Buddhism (the Songa), the Monarchy (King), the Military and the Thai Democratic Political Bureacracy compose a four-part power sharing that makes for an interesting evolution in environmental policy. And the respectful student, of any age, is always welcome here.

It is also a friendly and safe place to travel. The infrastructure is excellent, logistics generally run smooth, there is good drinking water available almost everywhere and the food is well...simply incredible.

Our lodging will be simple field stations, small huts and dormitory style in the towns. You will get muddy and dirty and need to feel OK about that. We'll shower whenever we get the chance.

There are wonderful local area experts we'll be studying with, zoologists, botanists, journalists, sociologists, politicians. Our approach is learn with as many stakeholders as we can, including education, government, business, religious, non-government organizations and the residents. We have much to learn from Thais. So many Thais have made such enourmous contributions to our understanding of and protection of our precious environment. There is an excellent published literature to work with, much of which has been translated into English. Our seminars are rich, delicious and inspiring.

I look forward to learning with you in Thailand. If I can answer any of your questions please do not hesitate to email me.

Saa-wa-dee Kahp!

David Scott Silverberg, Ph.D.

Field Drector