We have exciting news and a great opportunity to share!
Subject to conditions shaped by the pandemic and pace of vaccinations, the NSF-RCN-UBE Incubator steering committee is planning an in-person river rendezvous July 28 -August 4, 2021 in the North Cascades, Washington State, framed around the Wild and Scenic Skagit River watershed.
Our goal is to pilot/move toward the river rendezvous as outlined in the full NSF proposal submitted January 2021 overviewed in the attached poster.
Participants will travel to the North Cascades Institute's Environmental Learning Center and Newhalem Campground on July 28th. The first three days (July 29 - 31) will focus on classroom-based professional development & network planning. The second three days (1 - 3 Aug) will revolve around a 3-day river training mini-course with a "mock class" of local students spending two nights on the Skagit and/or Sauk Rivers. August 4th is the departure day.
Prior experience is not required. We expect to build a cohort that ranges from neophyte to experienced field instructors.
We anticipate providing workshops on engaging participants with diverse physical abilities in river field courses, how to adapt the Library of Inclusive Field Technology, river safety and risk assessment & management, local cultural and natural history, and a chance to practice and refine some field lesson content, for starters.
Broad learning objectives of RIVER Rendezvous for participants include
1. Learn about designing field projects and assessment
2. Learn how to use LIFT
3. Learn risk management and Swiftwater Safety basics
4. Learn how to address key Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion concerns in field studies
5. Practice curriculum in the field
6. Learn about Pacific North West river ecology, geology, geography
7. Increased confidence in working with students in a river field setting
We have remaining funds in the Incubator grant to support participation in this event for a cohort of our members. We anticipate covering travel (airfare, mileage), accommodations (campground or at the North Cascades Institute's Environmental Learning Center as needs and space allows), meals (at institute/self-catering on the river), and all training activities (costs of guest expert presenters, river equipment rental, etc).
Programming for the Rendezvous is still under development as we keep an eye on the pandemic. However, if you are available on those dates and would like to participate, please fill out this application by 30 April.
http://nau.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0TG8od535w7fiJw
Best,
RFSN leadership team
