Baja: Field Methods

Immerse yourself in Baja's vibrant marine, island, and desert ecosystems. This course offers a unique opportunity to study in Bahía de los Ángeles, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience diverse habitats from the Gulf of California to the Vizcaino desert, home to remarkable plants like giant cacti, elephant trees, and boojums. With their important work with human and marine communities, we are glad to partner with the Vermilion Sea Institute to offer this course.

Gain essential ecological field methods that empower both research and public engagement in science and environmental stewardship. This course equips diverse investigators with fundamental tools like point sampling, quadrat studies, and line transects to generate reliable information and promote informed action. You'll become proficient in various sampling methods and contribute to ongoing projects.

A typical day on this EE course includes exploration and hiking in the local environment, instructor and student-led discussions of key course topics, presentations, and engagement with local community experts, and time for inquiry investigations and journal writing. Prior to and following the field experience in Baja, students will complete coursework via Canvas, Miami University's learning management system, as they apply experiences at home.

*** If you're interested in Baja: Field Methods for Summer 2026, let us know by completing this short form. Note: This is not the EE application/course request form. Visit our Apply webpage for application instructions for the GFP or to take an Earth Expeditions stand-alone course. Current Dragonfly students' summer requests should be submitted using the form sent via email.

Rancho San Gregorio

Nestled in the heart of the Vizcaíno Desert and Valle de los Cirios Biological Reserve, Rancho San Gregorio is sustained by two vital springs. This isolated region, home to the Villavicencio family since the late 1600s, boasts unique flora and fauna, supported by Pacific moisture. It's a hotspot for desert ecological study, protecting endangered species like the desert pronghorn antelope and Mexican bighorn sheep.

Bahía de los Ángeles

This small fishing village on the Gulf of California contrasts sharply with the sparse desert. Its turquoise waters teem with life, though overfishing threatens local livelihoods and species. Recognized for its extraordinary biodiversity, UNESCO designated the region a World Heritage Site in 2005. In 2007, it became the Bahía de Los Ángeles Biosphere Reserve, encompassing nearly a million acres of coastal, marine, and island ecosystems vital for threatened species like whale sharks and sea turtles. Often called the "Galapagos of Mexico," it's renowned for its spectacular scenery and unique wildlife.

Our base in Bahía de los Ángeles is the Vermilion Sea Field Station (VSFS), a historic adobe research center. Located within the small fishing village of ~700 people, VSFS actively collaborates with the community to preserve the "Bay of the Angels."

(Course locations are subject to change)

Do you have questions? Go to our Frequently Asked Questions page for some answers.

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