Melaina Dyck, Masters of Environmental Science
I used the CLAIS Travel Award to visit the region of Ucayali, Peru over spring break 2018 to prepare for the Master’s thesis field work I will conduct there from May to August, 2018. I am investigating the economic and cultural roles of huito and camu-camu—native fruit species with a variety of alimentative, medicinal and cosmetic uses—in Shipibo communities in Ucayali region, and the social and economic impacts of increasing production of those species. This trip over spring break was critical for advancing my research. I solidified relationships with collaborators, developed new connections, identified field sites, and became more familiar with the region where I will spend three months. I deeply appreciate the support from CLAIS that made this trip possible and I will continue to provide updates on my research as it progresses.
