Houghton University Students Explore Sustainability and Science
We were delighted to welcome Dr. John M. Rowley, Professor of Chemistry and Director of Science Honors at Houghton University, NY, and his enthusiastic students to Eye on the Rainforest. Their visit featured an insightful guided walk through our lush forest led by 3t, exploring rich ecological interactions and deepening their understanding of tropical forest sustainability and conservation.
The students from Houghton University are diving into exciting research projects this May, covering important topics such as microclimate under the canopy, vegetation health near human developments, invasive plant species, and mangrove ecosystems. Our forest serves as a valuable natural laboratory, particularly for their investigations into microclimates and vegetation dynamics.
We look forward to hosting the Houghton team again in 2026 for more tailored research opportunities, continuing our meaningful collaboration and shared passion for environmental stewardship and education. Thank you, Dr. Rowley and students, for your visit—we’re inspired by your commitment to exploring and protecting tropical forests!
During their visit, the group experienced some tropical delights firsthand. The students got to open a cacao pod (Theobroma cacao) and tasted for the very first time the sweet, fruity pulp surrounding the seeds—seeds that will eventually be transformed into chocolate. Additionally, everyone enjoyed sampling the uniquely flavorful Guanabana, also known as Graviola (Annona muricata), immersing their senses further into the rich biodiversity of our rainforest.
