Learning, Sharing and Building Across Field Stations

Participant testimonials

“Participating in a station exchange was invaluable for me as a first-time manager of a field station. I'm so thankful that OBFS offers the exchange program for collaboration and learning! ... I arrived [at the University of New Mexico's Sevilleta Field Station] as a turtle biologist with little experience managing a station, and left with practical tools — from fixing door hinges to handling emergencies — and a support network I can lean on.”

— Marie Stone, University of Central Oklahoma, Selman Living Lab

“I returned inspired to expand our own education programs, integrate Indigenous partnerships, and build stronger DEI practices. The exchange connected our committees across states to learn together.”

— Dustin Angell, Archbold Biological Station (Florida) on his trip to the Sitka Sound Science Center in Alaska  

The OBFS Station Exchange Program (SXP) provides mini-travel awards to support staff, researchers, and managers at OBFS member stations. By spending several days at another station, participants gain firsthand experience in shadowing, cross-training, and mentoring that strengthens their home institutions and builds connections across the OBFS network.

Whether you are new to managing a field station or an experienced staff member looking for fresh ideas, an exchange can spark innovation and deepen professional growth.

What the Program Offers

  • Up to $1,000 in travel support (reimbursement-based).
  • Opportunities for multi-day shadowing of host staff.
  • Priority given to reciprocal (two-way) exchanges between stations.
  • Experiences tailored to station needs, such as:
    • Programmatic offerings
    • Infrastructure and land management
    • Research coordination
    • Education and outreach

How to Apply

Applications must include:

  1. Letter of support from the host station.
  2. Short statement of need describing goals for shadowing/cross-training.
  3. Names of the person(s) to be shadowed.
  4. Proposed travel dates, logistics, and budget.

Deadlines

  • Spring deadline: February
  • Fall deadline: September

The Collaborations Committee reviews applications within two weeks of each deadline, with award notifications typically by March 14 (spring) or October 8 (fall).

Rules and Eligibility

  • Both the awardee and host station must be OBFS members in good standing.
  • Awards are reimbursement-only (no pre-payments).
  • Eligible expenses: airfare, lodging, meals, car rental, and host station fees.
  • Receipts must be submitted to the OBFS Treasurer for reimbursement.
  • Exchanges must focus on shadowing/cross-training and may not be used for conferences or workshops.

Reporting Expectations

Awardees are required to submit a short final report guided by the OBFS Station Exchange Awardee Report Guide. Reports highlight:

  • Overview: motivations, goals, and reflections on the exchange.
  • Activities: meetings, research, fieldwork, outreach, cultural experiences.
  • Lessons learned: in management, research, education, DEI, and operations.
  • Best practices: comparative analysis of home and host stations.
  • Future actions: collaborations, program enhancements, DEI initiatives.
  • Broader impacts: long-term benefits for careers and institutions.
  • Photos & documentation: images of activities, with captions.
  • Budget summary: itemized costs for reimbursement.
Apply now

Questions? Contact Itchung Cheung, OBFS Collaboration Committee Chair