Hydrogeology Field Course – Resources for Participants
Visitor Information
Western Michigan University's Hydrogeology Field Course (HFC) welcomes students and professionals from across the country and beyond. The following information will help you plan your stay in Kalamazoo and prepare for your field experience.
Lodging and Meals
HFC participants are responsible for arranging their own lodging and meals. We encourage students to plan ahead, particularly those traveling to Kalamazoo for multiple modules.
Lodging
Accommodation options include:
- WMU Residence Life and Guest Housing
- Local hotels, short-term rentals, subleases, and campgrounds
- Shared accommodations with other HFC participants
Housing Connections and Student Networking
Finding affordable short-term housing can be challenging. We encourage participants to use our HFC Facebook page to connect with other students and alumni, explore potential roommate arrangements, and seek advice about staying in Kalamazoo.
The HFC Director may occasionally have local housing leads, but participants are responsible for arranging and verifying their own accommodations. Housing and roommate availability are not guaranteed.
Meals and Lunches
Students should plan to bring a packed lunch, snacks, and plenty of drinking water each day, as most modules involve extended fieldwork with limited access to restaurants or food services.
A refrigerator and microwave are available for student use in Rood Hall. WMU dining plans may also be available to participants staying in university housing, although dining options and hours vary during the summer and may not accommodate field schedules.
Transportation and Field Activities
Most classroom activities take place on or near WMU's Kalamazoo campus, with field exercises and excursions at regional locations.
Transportation to scheduled field sites is provided in university vehicles. HFC participants are generally required to travel with their assigned group rather than use personal vehicles. This policy supports student safety, accountability, and university transportation requirements.
Personal vehicles may only be used for travel to or from field sites with prior approval or at the direction of the HFC Director.
Some modules include extended field days, evening activities, or overnight trips. Transportation arrangements and schedules will be communicated in advance.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to and from Kalamazoo and between their accommodations and campus.
Campus Parking, Maps, and Directions
HFC classroom activities are based in Rood Hall on Western Michigan University's main campus in Kalamazoo.
Rood Hall
2235 Wilbur Avenue
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Parking: Participants bringing a vehicle to campus should review WMU Parking Services for current parking permit requirements and purchasing instructions. Student parking is typically available in designated spaces in Lot 61, near Rood Hall. Parking regulations and permit requirements are subject to change.
Helpful Maps and Directions:
- Get Directions to Rood Hall (Google Maps)
- WMU Interactive Campus Map – Locate Rood Hall, parking lots, and other campus facilities.
- WMU Printable Campus and Parking Maps – Download maps to help plan your arrival.
Child Care
Childcare services and resources are available throughout the Kalamazoo area. Visit WMU's Child Care Resources page for additional information.
Preparing for Fieldwork
HFC modules involve outdoor field activities under a variety of weather and site conditions. Participants should plan to bring appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, and personal items needed for fieldwork.
Detailed information about required equipment, field schedules, safety procedures, and any overnight accommodations will be provided before the course begins.
Questions or Special Arrangements?
If you have questions about lodging, transportation, parking, or other logistical needs, please contact:
Thomas Howe
Hydrogeology Field Course Director
@email