WELCOME to SML Section: Life on Appledore
Appledore Island is a near-pristine coastal environment, and self-sufficient community. Our campus
facilities are simple, attractive and designed for utility. SML generates
its own electricity using a combination of wind,* solar and diesel generated power. We maintain systems for wastewater treatment,
fresh and salt water distribution, and a SCUBA compressor to support diving operations associated with SML's academic program.
The SML island staff provide dining services
and facilities support to keep our island campus and waterfront running safely and smoothly. For a detailed description of SML's facilities and
vessels, CLICK HERE! (PDF) or TAKE A TOUR! The terrain on Appledore
is rugged and the weather is subject to sudden changes. All participants should have modest agility and be prepared to assist (within each person's own capabilities) with community tasks on "food run" and "change-over" days, as well as pitch-in with the general upkeep of dining and res hall common areas. *See the wind turbine being built! (ppt)
Res Life
ALL program participants are housed two or four to a room in four modern
dormitories with washroom facilities in each dorm. SML does not provide
linens (except for Adult and Family Education programs). Fresh water is at a premium, so
showers are limited, but salt water bathing is encouraged. Showers are located in Kiggins
Commons.
Labs and Classrooms
All campus laboratories are equipped with microscopes, and sea
tables with continuously running seawater for maintaining organisms. The largest lab, "Palmer-Kinne Laboratory" has bench space
for sixty participants; the Grass Foundation Laboratory,
Kiggins Commons Lab and Laighton Lab are used for smaller programs. A modest library, and computer lab are located in Laighton House. Classrooms with A/V equipment and wireless access are located in Kiggins, Laighton and Hamilton House. The infirmary,
and administrative offices are located in Hamilton House. Click here for pictures of our island campus (PDF).
Dining
The kitchen is noted for its hearty cuisine, particularly fresh, local
seafood dishes. Those with dietary preferences, such as
vegetarians, generally find it easy to satisfy their needs. Meals are
served cafeteria-style as follows: 7:30am/12:30pm/6:00pm
on Monday - Saturday; and 10:00am (brunch)/5:00pm on Sundays.
Communications
Mail services
are fairly regular for most of the summer, but are subject to change
or cancellation depending on sea and weather conditions. Most cell phones work on Appledore Island! Participants should plan to bring their own cell phone; in an emergency, SML staff will provide assistance. Internet service is provided via satellite; wireless hot-spots are located in some campus buildings.
*Students and Adult and Family Education participants will receive
detailed information about how to prepare for a program on Appledore
Island with acceptance and registration confirmation packets.
Waterfront
The SML waterfront fleet includes the R/V John M. Kingsbury (picured on the left), the R/V John B. Heiser (pictured on the right), and several small vessels. All are used for field trips to other islands, diving, oceanographic cruises and for transportation to and from the mainland. Time on board SML vessels is an integral component of all SML programs!
Public Access to Appledore Island
For more information about visiting SML for the day or to enroll in an overnight program, please see our Public Education section of this web site.
