BHUTAN CENTER FOR HIMALAYAN ENVIRONMENT AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES LOCATION RESEARCH THEMES CORE SKILLS Paro, Western Bhutan Mountain ecology and conservation Climate change Gross National Happiness Forest management River ecosystems Agriculture and urban migration GIS and mapping Species identification Camera trapping and mist netting Biodiversity assessment Forest survey methods Data collection and analysis Research design and implementation Research presentation WWW.FIELDSTUDIES.ORG/BHUTAN OVERVIEW VENTURE TO THE MOUNTAIN KINGDOM OF BHUTAN, WHERE CHANGE IS ON THE HORIZON High in the Himalayas sits Bhutan, a small country defined by towering mountains, lush forests, and flowing rivers. Bhutan is home to endemic species like the snow leopard, tiger, golden langur, takin, and black-necked crane. The country’s unique and well-known philosophy of Gross National Happiness integrates governance with rich cultural traditions, Buddhist principles, and environmental conservation. As the country begins to rapidly modernize, the people of Bhutan are challenged to sustainably manage their wealth of natural resources in order to preserve biodiversity and secure their own economic futures. SFS works in partnership with the Bhutanese government and the Bhutan Ecological Society to provide muchneeded data that informs sustainable conservation and development policies. LIFE AT THE CENTER The Center is located at one end of the stunning Paro Valley, at the base of a towering ridgeline dotted with Buddhist monasteries. Campus is a small cluster of buildings designed in the traditional Bhutanese architectural style. A pleasant 15-minute walk brings you to the markets, shops, and cultural events of Paro Town. Dorm living with two to four students per room Kitchen and dining hall, and on-site cooking staff Verandas with scenic views of the valley Classroom and dedicated study spaces Student lounge and ping-pong table Hiking trails and local roads for running 10 The School for Field Studies