Environmental Science Laboratory
Policies Regarding Field Trips
Students taking the Environmental Science Laboratory should understand that some of the trips
are taken on days and times which are outside the normal laboratory period. Although alternative
assignments may sometimes be given, each student is expected to attend all trips and to make
reasonable arrangements to do so.
Students are responsible for their own transportation to the field trip site.
With few exceptions, TVI does not provide transportation. You are encouraged to car pool to
save energy, traffic congestion etc. Some sites are on gravel roads and/or have limited parking.
The field trip officially begins at the site. Individual students who are driving must have (New
Mexico law) liability insurance. The instructor is not permitted to take passengers to the sites.
Tickets, fees, traffic accidents etc. are the sole responsibility of each driver.
Some trips require physical exertion. Hiking of up to two miles on moderate to steep
grades is not unusual. Walking on sand, gravel, mud, or other unstable surfaces is routine. The
pace will be slow to moderate. Students will be expected to keep up and will be required to
provide for their own assistance should it be necessary. Students should notify the instructor in
advance regarding physical or other problems which may impact their participation.
Proper attire is the student's responsibility. Provisions should be made for inclement or
changing weather, temperature extremes, etc. Hiking boots or shoes are necessary for many trips.
Sandals or other open-toed shoes are not permitted on hikes or at sites such as the wastewater
treatment plant. Water is advisable. Other snacks, lunch, etc. are permitted and are the student's
responsibility.
No alcohol!
While every effort will be make to keep exposure to hazards to a minimum, students
are advised that poison ivy, snake bite and accidents do sometimes occur. The instructor will be
prepared to deal with most emergencies. It is the student's responsibility to exercise due caution
and to follow directions. Liability for accident or health insurance rests with the student.
BIO 111L is an elective course and is not required for any program. Alternatives for a non-majors
science lab are available. Any student uncomfortable with these policies should enroll in an
alternative course. Participation in the laboratory indicates acceptance of the above policies.