Water, Earth Fire: Citizen Science in the Arkansas River Watershed
The upper Arkansas River watershed is a crucible for understanding the effects of climate change. From dwindling permanent snowfields on the Continental Divide, its water flows through fire-suppressed forests and the tailings piles and merlot ponds of 150 years of mining before exiting the mountains, crossing the central plains, and joining with the mighty Mississippi River. Students spend 10 days exploring the interaction of these natural elements – water, earth, and fire – and participating in real-world science and conservation projects to promote climate resiliency at the headwaters of one of America’s most important rivers.
Students develop backcountry camp and travel skills, including backpacking, rock climbing, and white water rafting, as they partner with local environmental conservation groups to understand the ecological, geologic, and historical factors that have shaped this dramatic landscape.
Water
Visit the headwaters of the Arkansas River and trace its meandering path through high alpine meadows and craggy mountains until the river gains momentum and volume as it plummets down the valley. The Arkansas River Watershed has been significantly impacted by mining activity, and consequently, water quality has been compromised. Explore how water quality impacts aquatic ecosystems, fisheries, and human communities. Gain important insight into current water use controversies by meeting the locals who rely on the steady flow of the Arkansas River from ranching to rafting and everything in between.
Earth
Gold first brought prospectors to the Arkansas Valley in the early 1860’s but silver is what shaped the town of Leadville in the late 1870’s. On this course, dive head first into the geology of the Rocky Mountains and the mining history that has shaped the past and present American West. From thrilling tales of the silver rush to current challenges like reclamation and changing forces of economy, learn about how the earth beneath us shaped the environment we see today.
Fire
Wildfire plays a complex role in shaping ecosystems in the American West, and with the intensification of climate change, wildfires in Colorado are becoming an increasingly frequent fact of life. The Arkansas Valley is the perfect case study for understanding the many nuances of living with fire, including impacts on habitat, water resources, soil erosion, and human communities. Work alongside fire ecologists to gain important insight into the necessity and tragedy of wildfire all while exploring contemporary and historic burn scars.
Session Options
Note: two age group sessions will be offered during these dates.
Session One: Saturday, June 21 – Sunday, June 29
Session Two: Saturday, July 19 – Sunday, July 27
Application Process
Earth, Water, Fire is accepting applications on a rolling basis. If you are interested in this program, please email our admissions team: admissions@hminet.org