WILDLANDS STUDIES: Fiji-Hawaii Program
DATES: October 28 -- December 9
The Program
“Why Fiji is visited by such small numbers is puzzling . . .for there is not a more interesting or enjoyable trip on the globe . . .When the picturesque looking peaks . . . stand boldly out against the dark-blue horizon, ‘tis really a sight to be remembered.” Colonel F.E. Pratt, Editor of The Commercial Directory and Tourists Guide to the South Pacific Islands. 1875.
In more recent times, a group of travel writers were polled as to which
locale planetary locale they enjoyed most: the majority agreed with Pratt:
The Fiji Islands.
Wildlands Studies team members will have the opportunity to explore, and
learn about, South Pacific island-eco-systems above and below the equator.
First in Hawaii (two-weeks), then in Fiji (four-weeks), we will examine
firsthand the unique natural and cultural forces shaping the islands.
Hawaiian Islanders share a natural and cultural affinity with the Fijians. Both island chains are volcanic in origin--Fiji being the older of the two. Culturally, anthropologists believe that some of the first Hawaiian peoples may have originated from the South Pacific. As such, there is considerable overlap between Hawaiian and Fijian language and customs.
This course will consider the similarities and differences between the two respective island chains and their indigenous traditions. In both locations we will compare and contrast: 1) the processes that shape and erode shield volcanoes; 2) coastal environments with special emphasis on reef ecosystems; 3) island rainforests and threats to biodiversity. In our culture studies we will consider: 1) Hawaiian/Fijian religious temples and practices; 2) the importance of the canoe in South Seas culture groups; 3) issues of sovereignty and indigenous land ownership.
Linking our culture and nature studies will be the underlying theme of human adaptation to island ecosystems. In both Hawaii and Fiji, land-use strategies will be examined. As a team, with the help of local officials and villagers, we will consider the future of sustainable land-use practices (including eco-tourism) that will bring islanders into the twenty-first century.
HAWAII (Weeks 1-2)
“I know of no part of the world, the exploration of which is so flattering to the imagination, so likely to be fruitful in interesting results, whether to the naturalist, the ethnologist, or geographer.” J.B. Jukes, 19th Century Explorer
The Hawaii segment of our course will begin on the Big Island in Volcanoes
National Park. Here we will participate in a workshop on the mechanisms
that give rise to shield volcanoes. We will tour Kilauea—the world’s
most active volcano—and uncover the secret life of lava fountains,
spatter cones, and bulbous domes. In addition, we will consider how indigenous
Hawaiians explain the mountain building process through myth and legend.
Perspectives from the Hawaiian community will enlighten us to Pele and
her life-giving role as the mother of the islands.
Complementing our study of Hawaiian volcanoes will be an eight-mile hike
down Pele’s southwestern flank to a remote seaside locale. With
the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, we will begin our examination of ocean
ecosystems and Polynesian culture. We will look at the Hawaiian idea of
heiau and the accompanying stone-platforms left as reminders of that by-gone
era. The importance of sacrifice in ancient Hawaii will likewise be detailed.
Off time can be spent snorkeling in protected Halape cove or hiking the
coastline.
By the time we leave the Hawaiian Islands, we will have identified several
key natural and cultural themes that will carry us into the Fiji archipelago.
In Fiji, we will compare and contrast Pacific Island ecosystems and cultural
practices.
FIJI (Weeks 3-6)
Oh! Dead is Mr. Baker,
They killed him on the road,
And they ate him, boots and all.
(Lyrics from a song taught to
missionary schoolchildren in the 1890’s.)
Captain Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame sailed past the Fiji Islands in a hurry. These gems of the South Pacific were more feared, than adored, in his day. The maps of merchant traders referred to the archipelago as the “Cannibal Islands” (surely Mr. Baker would have agreed).
The days of man-eating are over in Fiji, but please sign your release wavers just in case. Fijians are now widely held to be some of the most friendly and hospitable people in the entire South Pacific. It is not unusual for a village chief to welcome you into his compound with full ceremony. The main reason the travel writers are so found of Fiji is because of its people.
Our journey below the equator will begin in the coastal city of Suva, on the “big island” of Viti Levu. We will spend three days enjoying presentations on island geography, geology, and cultural practices from specialists. We will also visit the Fiji National Museum. Here, we will further explore the islands’ rich cultural and natural heritage.
After getting our sub-equatorial “sea-legs,” we will embark on a village stay for nine days. This immersioninto Fijian culture will see us live two students per family. During our stay we will have a unique opportunity to learn how Fijian society operates and maintains harmony within the group.
Upon completion of the village stay, we will conduct a reef survey to help establish proper management procedures for the ocean ecosystem. The survey will be conducted using masks and snorkels. Students should be prepared, and in shape, for this underwater immersion. You will learn both scientific as well as indigenous names of the plants and fish in the survey. The results of your effort will be presented to both scientists as well as village elders so they may make an informed decision about coastal resources.
PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY
In spite of the idyllic locales, ours is a serious field-study program.
We do not allow surfing of any kind so please leave your boards at home.
If you are coming to Hawaii and Fiji to take a break from the rigors of
learning we strongly suggest that you reconsider your application. Long
days will be spent studying the volcano, adjusting to life in the village,
and completing required course readings and tests. Alcohol must be consumed
only in public establishments and if there is any abuse, the staff has
the right to revoke the privilege and make it a dry program with a zero
tolerance policy. If you cannot imagine being on a beach without a drink
in your hand, do not apply. What you can expect is to read about and then
visit areas of natural and cultural significance and to learn first hand
from experts in their fields.
Preliminary Application
