Round River Conservation Studies - Taku River Watershed Program
- Location(s): British Columbia, Canada: Alaska, United States
- Program Type(s): Study Abroad, Research
Round River Conservation Studies
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Round River offers a 6-week summer program in northwestern British Columbia. Students are based out of the very small, remote town of Atlin, but spend the majority of the program hiking, camping, back-packing, and conducting research. Students als... read more
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I gained a lot of knowledge about local vegetation, conservation field methods, ungulate populations, wildlife monitoring, and the Atlin area. I had no prior experience with conservation studies, and appreciated the opportunity to get an introduction to this field. I also had a lot of fun with the other students and instructors ... Claire B - Carleton College View Entire Review
I grew in my field skills, knowledge of conservation, and overall understanding of my place on the earth. Kyle Weber - Truman State University View Entire Review
I learn about the Tlingit Indigenous people and their connection to the land in relation to conservation biology. Being able to help contribute to life changing conservation efforts was worthwhile. Aliza Chavez - Northland College View Entire Review
From this experience I was able to gain a sense of self, physical conditioning and new friends. This experience was completely worthwhile. I was able to persevere - just when I thought I couldn't go on, I found that I was so near to the top. So I would push through, reach the top of the mountain, and see that all of the hard wor... Morgan Brown - Weber State University View Entire Review
Lots of schemas and tactics for observing the interactions and cycling of an environment. Then applying these observations into systematic and helpful catalogues and introspections. Zachary Hough solomon - Northland College View Entire Review
Absolutely worthwhile. I learned a lot about what direction I want to take the rest of my college career in, which is something even a college counselor may have trouble helping you with. I went into this program with no expectations at all and left Atlin knowing that if I did have any sort of expectations going in, it would hav... A student - Westminster College, UT View Entire Review
I got a chance to learn about conservation methods in a new light that I have not previously thought of. A student - Ithaca College View Entire Review
I learned that field research is something that I'm really interested in doing with my future, which is what I went into the program intending to find out. I also found that I'm really interested in First Nations/ Native American culture. Finally I found that learning in a different type of environment (not in a typical classr... Grace S - Yale University View Entire Review
It was worthwhile, I learned about myself, the local culture, and hands on conservation. A student - Weber State University View Entire Review
There is so much that I learned and gained from this experience that isn't quantitative. I cannot tell you, however, just how worthwhile this trip was. My leaders were thoughtful and full of knowledge. They pushed us to better understand the natural world around us as well as the new culture that we were living in. I discovered ... Holly B - Carleton College View Entire Review
100% worthwhile. I gained passion for and strong knowledge of local natural history and general ecological concepts. I also gained conservation biology research skills, and strong connection with the Taku Anna W - Dartmouth College View Entire Review
I learned how to see the world in a different way. There's a difference between just visiting a place and knowing most of the plants, animals, culture, and history of the area. The Taku River program taught me how to go to a place and understand it, not just be there. Christine F - University of Vermont View Entire Review
I learned so much about Conservation Biology. As someone who came in with almost no prior knowledge, I was a little nervous about falling behind but the leaders ensured I didn't. They were very encouraging and made all of the work reasonable and rigorous, while also enjoyable. I also made some deep and lasting friendships Mark Roth - Carleton College View Entire Review
I learned an incredible amount about the ecology and natural history of the area. I also learned a lot about what field studies include and some methods around them. Another huge aspect of this course was learning about the Tlingit First Nation People and their rich history. There are so many things that I learned on this cou... Joe Gallucci - University of Vermont View Entire Review
Aliza Chavez - Northland College View Entire Review
I learned a lot from the Tlingit people and local people who work with the TRTFN about their connection to the land and the difficulties they face in the area and as native people in general. In addition, I learned to identify numerous plants, birds, and animals out in the field. This program is worthwhile as you not only learn... A student - Colby College View Entire Review
I learned about science and culture. I believe there even should be a diversity course wrapped in the program somewhere. We are taught of where science and culture meet, and how they can benefit eachother with mutual goals and respect. A student - University of Vermont View Entire Review
This experience really highlights the importance of people in the environment as the TRTFN have demonstrated their extensive background on the land, with minimal impact and negative effects. I really grew to appreciate the ability to exist harmoniously on the land recognizing the gifts that are being given in the form of food, s... A student - Colby College View Entire Review
The most useful and interesting thing I learned was how to do actual fieldwork. This was a wonderful change of pace from the more theoretical classroom approach to environmental studies. Also the countless memories of sharing fun times with amazing people in truly immense natural spaces is something I will carry with me for the ... Joe V - Westminster College, UT View Entire Review
It was ABSOLUTELY worthwhile. I learned so much about conservation biology, it's practical application, working with local and traditional communities, field work, human's relationship with nature- the list goes on. I also learned tons about myself and what I want to do in the future with respect to those topics. Beyond all of t... Drew H - Carleton College View Entire Review
I not only learned many con bio topics and methods but also how field work is done and got to meet many amazing individuals. kasey.arts - Northland College View Entire Review
Definitely worthwhile. A student - Carleton College View Entire Review
About
Round River offers a 6-week summer program in northwestern British Columbia. Students are based out of the very small, remote town of Atlin, but spend the majority of the program hiking, camping, back-packing, and conducting research. Students also have opportunities to interact with the local community and learn about the culture and the history of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation.
Current Projects:
- Wildlife surveys (caribou, sheep, mountain goats)
- Bird surveys (Common nighthawk)
- Monitoring alpine vegetation in response to climate change
- Other projects to assist the Taku River Tlingit First Nation
Courses taught:
- Applied Conservation Biology
- Natural History of northwestern British Columbia
- Introduction to Field Methodology
All courses are accredited through Westminster College of Salt Lake City.
Program Dates (subject to change):
Program Dates (subject to change):
- June 23 - August 5
Financial Aid:
- Round River offers a need-based scholarship, the Edward Abbey Scholarship. Awards range from $500 to $4,000.
Since 1998, Round River has been working with the Taku River Tlingit First Nation in BC to conduct wildlife research, document traditional knowledge, and develop a conservation area design for their territory. Students assist with wildlife and vegetation surveys assessing how climate change is affecting alpine species and habitats. Students also hike along a traditional Tlingit trail into the Taku Watershed, where grizzlies and salmon abound.
Our unique programs give students the opportunity to contribute to local conservation, while gaining valuable field skills and earning undergraduate course credits.
Please visit our website, check out our Student Blog for stories and photos from past programs, and get in touch with us to learn more and contact Round River alumni.
Program Type(s):
Study AbroadResearch
Program Length(s):
- Summer
- Short Term
Instruction Language(s):
- English
Relevant Study Subject(s):
- Natural Resources, Conservation
- Environmental Studies
- Zoology, Animal Biology
- Ecology, Evolution Biology
Minimum GPA:
2.5Year Founded:
2003Website
N/AStatistics
Round River Conservation Studies Scholarships
Round River offers scholarships to students through our Edward Abbey Scholarship Fund. Edward Abbey was a friend to many and an inspiration to all associated with Round River. Ed’s family has graciously agreed that we may use his name in this manner. We are committed to involving dedicated and qualified students in our conservation projects and we will work with you to facilitate your application and financial needs. Financial assistance to qualified students from Round River is available from the Edward Abbey Scholarship Fund.
$500-$5,000
Deadlines:
Students should submit an application for the Edward Abbey Scholarship within 3 weeks of paying their deposit to be considered.
Guidelines/Requirements:
Scholarship applications will not be considered unless a student has applied for a Round River program and has all application materials in. Special arrangements may be made for extended scholarship application deadlines, only if a student has contacted Round River well in advance of the deadline.
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