Iowa State students have the opportunity to study rain forests first hand in Costa Rica this summer.

Iowa State’s biology department is organizing a field trip to Costa Rica through the Study Abroad Center from May 11 to May 26, sponsored by the Organization for Tropical Studies and the University of Costa Rica.

The trip costs about $1600, and students can gain 2 or 3 credits. The price includes air fare, lodging, meals, and guide fees. The trip is open to all students, not just biology students. The biology department hopes 20 students will sign up.

Wayne Rowley, an ISU entomology professor, is leading the trip.

“There are going to be professors from the University of Costa Rica who are experts on the rain forest. We are going to visit a national park, a rain forest, and a cloud forest,” Rowely said.

K. B. Platt, a professor of veterinary medicine, said the trip will help people expand their horizons.

“We are trying to increase global awareness of students of ecosystems and cultures worldwide. It is part of being good world citizens,” Platt said.

Rowley said financial aid is available for those who need it.

Those interested in going on the field trip should contact Rowley at 440 Science II, 294-1573.