ESF Campuses

The Lafayette Road Experiment Station is a specialized campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), located near Syracuse. This facility serves as a critical research and teaching site focused on urban forestry, environmental restoration, and sustainable land use practices. It provides students and faculty with opportunities to study and address environmental challenges in urban and suburban contexts.

• Urban Forestry: Courses and research on managing trees and green spaces in urban environments for ecological and social benefits.
• Environmental Restoration: Studies focused on rehabilitating degraded landscapes and improving ecosystem services in developed areas.
• Soil Science: Research and training in soil health, remediation, and sustainable land management practices.

While not a primary academic campus, the Lafayette Road Experiment Station supports field-based learning and research for students from the main Syracuse campus. The site is used for experiments in tree planting, soil remediation, and stormwater management, offering practical experience in applying environmental science to real-world problems. Its location near urban areas allows for studies on the intersection of human activity and natural systems, addressing issues like pollution, heat islands, and habitat fragmentation. Students engage in hands-on projects that contribute to local community sustainability efforts, gaining skills in environmental planning and management. The station also serves as a testing ground for innovative techniques in urban ecology, supporting SUNY-ESF’s broader mission to advance environmental solutions. By focusing on the unique challenges of urban environments, this campus prepares students to tackle pressing issues in sustainability and resilience in densely populated areas.

The Main Campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF) in Syracuse is the heart of the institution, offering a comprehensive range of programs focused on environmental science, forestry, and sustainability. This campus serves as the primary hub for academic and research activities, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant learning environment.

• Environmental Science: A flagship program that explores ecological systems, conservation, and environmental policy.
• Forestry: Focused on sustainable forest management, silviculture, and forest ecology.
• Environmental Studies: An interdisciplinary program addressing social, political, and scientific aspects of environmental issues.
• Landscape Architecture: Combines design and environmental stewardship to create sustainable outdoor spaces.
• Environmental Resources Engineering: Focuses on solving environmental challenges through engineering solutions.
• Wildlife Science: Prepares students for careers in wildlife management and conservation biology.
• Biotechnology: Explores the application of biological systems for environmental and industrial solutions.

Students at the Syracuse campus benefit from close proximity to Syracuse University, with shared resources and collaborative opportunities. The campus is also home to extensive research facilities, including laboratories and greenhouses, fostering hands-on learning. Additionally, programs emphasize fieldwork, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings. The curriculum is designed to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource management, preparing graduates for impactful careers in environmental fields. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, SUNY-ESF’s Main Campus in Syracuse is a leader in environmental education and research, attracting students passionate about making a difference in the world.

The Newcomb Campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), located in the Adirondack Park, hosts the Adirondack Ecological Center (AEC). This campus serves as a premier field station for research and education in ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science. Surrounded by over 15,000 acres of forestland, it offers students and researchers a unique opportunity to study pristine natural environments.

• Environmental Science Field Studies: Courses and research opportunities focused on forest ecology, watershed management, and biodiversity.
• Wildlife Biology: Hands-on programs studying animal populations, habitats, and conservation in the Adirondacks.
• Ecological Monitoring: Training in data collection and analysis for long-term environmental research projects.

The Newcomb Campus is primarily a research and field study site rather than a traditional academic campus, offering short-term courses, workshops, and summer programs for SUNY-ESF students and visiting scholars. Students engage in intensive fieldwork, studying topics such as forest dynamics, climate change impacts, and wildlife behavior in a living laboratory. The AEC also supports public education through interpretive programs and visitor centers like the Adirondack Interpretive Center, fostering community engagement with environmental issues. Research conducted here contributes to global understanding of ecological systems and informs conservation policies. The remote setting provides an immersive learning experience, allowing students to disconnect from urban distractions and focus on the natural world. With its emphasis on applied science and real-world problem-solving, the Newcomb Campus plays a critical role in SUNY-ESF’s mission to advance environmental knowledge and sustainability, preparing students for careers in research, conservation, and resource management.

The Tully Campus of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), located at Heiberg Memorial Forest, is a key field station for forestry and environmental science education. Situated just south of Syracuse, this campus encompasses nearly 4,000 acres of diverse forestland, providing a living laboratory for students and researchers to study forest management, ecology, and silviculture.

• Forestry: Field-based courses focusing on sustainable forest management, timber production, and reforestation techniques.
• Forest Ecology: Studies of forest ecosystems, biodiversity, and ecological interactions in a managed forest setting.
• Environmental Science: Research and coursework on soil science, watershed management, and carbon sequestration.

The Tully Campus is primarily used for field training and research rather than traditional classroom instruction. Students from the Syracuse campus visit Heiberg Memorial Forest for hands-on learning experiences, participating in activities such as tree planting, forest inventory, and habitat restoration. The site also supports long-term research projects on forest health, climate change adaptation, and sustainable land use practices. Its proximity to the main campus makes it an accessible resource for integrating practical skills with academic study. The forest’s diverse landscapes, including hardwood stands, conifer plantations, and wetlands, offer a rich environment for studying ecological processes and testing management strategies. By providing real-world training in forestry and environmental stewardship, the Tully Campus supports SUNY-ESF’s mission to prepare students for careers in natural resource management and conservation, ensuring they are equipped to address global environmental challenges with practical, science-based solutions.

The Wanakena Campus, home to the Ranger School of the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF), is located in the heart of the Adirondack Park. Established in 1912, it is one of the oldest forestry schools in the United States, offering a unique, immersive learning experience in a remote, forested setting. This campus specializes in hands-on, field-based education tailored for students pursuing careers in forestry and natural resource management.

• Forest Technology: A program focused on practical skills in forest management, timber harvesting, and surveying.
• Land Surveying Technology: Prepares students for careers in land measurement and mapping, with an emphasis on environmental applications.
• Environmental and Natural Resources Conservation: Trains students in conservation practices, wildlife management, and sustainable resource use.

The Wanakena Campus offers associate degree programs that can be completed in one year, with an intensive curriculum that includes extensive fieldwork. Students spend significant time outdoors, learning to manage forests, conduct surveys, and apply conservation techniques in real-world scenarios. The campus’s location within the Adirondack Park provides unparalleled access to diverse ecosystems, making it an ideal setting for studying natural resources. Graduates often continue their education at the Syracuse campus to earn bachelor’s degrees or enter the workforce directly in roles such as forest technicians, surveyors, or conservation officers. The Ranger School’s small, close-knit community fosters strong mentorship and camaraderie among students and faculty. With a legacy of producing skilled professionals in forestry and conservation, the Wanakena Campus remains a cornerstone of SUNY-ESF’s mission to advance environmental stewardship and sustainable resource management.