Researcher sits on the ground with binoculars and research equipment as she records data in a binder.

Mono Basin Field Station

The Mono Basin Field Station is perfectly situated for scientists working in the Mono Basin.

Located in downtown Lee Vining, the Field Station provides housing and science support services in a welcoming, walkable neighborhood.

Field Station purpose and goals

The Mono Lake Committee operates the Mono Basin Field Station to provide lodging and research support facilities for researchers working in the Mono Lake region.

The Field Station helps fulfill three goals of the Mono Lake Committee: first, to enhance the scientific knowledge of the Mono Basin; second, to foster collaboration and information exchange among scientists across all disciplines; and third, to infuse our diverse education programs with opportunities to engage scientists and participate in scientific research.

A researcher carefully holds a bird in her hand as she uses some pliers to put a band on the bird.
Photo courtesy of Carly Hawkins, UC Davis.

Facilities and services

The Field Station has a total of ten separate housing units and a maximum capacity of approximately 20 people. Most units have full kitchens. Laundry facilities, a chest freezer, and wireless internet are all available on site. Office services like printing, fax, and shipping/receiving are available at the Mono Lake Committee’s main office, about a block away.

Housing units

Unit 1, Artemia. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, full kitchen, large living/dining room area, wood stove and propane heat.

Unit 3, Empidonax. Spacious studio with complete kitchen, large pantry, and full bathroom.

Unit 4-5, Krakatoa. One bedroom, one bathroom, full kitchen and large bathroom with double sink.

Unit 6, Larus. Cozy studio, complete kitchen, and full bathroom.
Unit 10, Vestal. Two bedrooms, two bathrooms, spacious kitchen, large living room plus office space.
Units 11, 12, 14, and 15. Hotel-room-like spaces; each has sleeping/sitting area, private bathroom, and kitchenette (mini fridge, microwave, and small area for food storage and preparation).

Rates

Field Station rates vary depending on the season and number of researchers who need lodging. Other services available at the Field Station for a fee include computer/networking support and storage. Please contact Office Director Claire Landowski by email or at (760) 647-6595 x120 to inquire about specific rates.

Summer rates (April 1 through October 31)
Rate typeRate for lead researcherAdd-on for each additional team member
Nightly$35$20
Monthly$375$300
Winter rates (November 1 through March 31)
Rate typeRate for lead researcherAdd-on for each additional team member
Nightly$75$30
Monthly$775$300
Additional services
ServiceRate
Computer/networking support$35/hour
Storage (depending on space needed and availability)$40/month
Move-out cleaning fee (if a unit needs additional cleaning after being vacated)$35/hour

Field Station housing request form

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Contact us

For more information about the Mono Basin Field Station, contact Anna Christensen by email or (760) 647-6595 x120.

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