COLORADO RIVER BASIN

SPRING COURSE
The program begins with a spring course establishing foundational knowledge in cultural dynamics, socio-ecological systems, public lands management, and water policy frameworks that define the Colorado River Basin. 

ENR 4965 / 5965 Canyonlands: Climate, Water & Culture | 3 credits 

Online Asynchronous, 2nd Block

This spring course is open to all UW students, participation in the field experience is optional.

ENR 4965 / 5965 Field Experience: Colorado River  | 1 credit

Online Asynchronous, 2nd Block

Required for field program participants. You will receive an Incomplete grade in this section at the end of spring, to be resolved after field program requirements have been completed.

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FIELD PROGRAM
Your journey starts in Las Vegas, where you'll engage with leading experts and participate in focused discussions that bring course themes to life. The centerpiece of this experience is an eight-day guided rafting expedition on the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon.

Field Experience

2026 Dates May 19-30, 2026

ELIGIBILITY
Open to all UW students. 

Application preference is given to students in Haub School programs. 

PRE-REQUISITES
None. 

APPLICATION PROCESS
Application and possible admission interview required. Applications will be reviewed and processed in the order they are received.

APPLY NOW

PROGRAM FEE $5,000 

The program fee is subject to change. Selected applicants will be able to review program fee before confirming participation. Financial assistance available through scholarships.

What's Included lodging, transportation during the program, entrance fees, instruction, excursions, most meals, and the complete 8-day Grand Canyon rafting experience (professional guide service and gratuities, all camping and rafting equipment, and all river meals).

What's Not Included round trip transportation to Las Vegas, select meals (including travel days), travel insurance, and UW tuition/fees for spring semester credits.

SCHOLARSHIPS
Haub School Field & Global Scholarship 

Award amounts vary based on financial need. Application deadline will be determined by program. 

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GRANTS

Haub School Research & Creative Activities Grant

Additional research project or creative activity required. Application deadlines: March 15 for summer funding. 

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Contact the Office of Financial Aid for more information about other possible financial assistance options and application deadlines. 

• navigate 277 river miles of the Colorado River through Grand Canyon National Park on an 8-day guided rafting expedition

• explore Indigenous peoples' historic and contemporary presence in the ecoregion, including traditional ecological knowledge and modern sovereignty issues

• learn from water law attorneys and policy experts to analyze the complex legal frameworks governing Colorado River allocation among states, tribes, and urban centers

• investigate major socio-ecological challenges facing the canyonlands through field observations and expert discussions, focusing on climate change impacts and water scarcity

• examine federal public land management policies within Grand Canyon National Park, discussing conservation strategies and recreational access 

• examine climate observations from river level to canyon rim, integrating historical data with current conditions to develop evidence-based visions for regional sustainability

• participate in evening discussions around the campfire with river guides, guests, and instructors, connecting daily field experiences to broader theoretical frameworks

This program involves active outdoor experiences requiring moderate physical fitness. 

Participants should be prepared for extended periods of sitting during river travel, walking on uneven terrain, moderately strenuous hiking on canyon trails (optional), and multi-day camping. 

You'll spend full days outdoors in the desert environment with variable weather conditions, including potentially intense heat, sun exposure, and temperature fluctuations between day and night. The eight-day rafting portion includes sleeping outdoors, carrying personal gear, and participating in camp setup and breakdown.

INFO SESSION
Meet course instructors and learn more about the spring course and the field program: 

Canyonlands: Climate, Water & Culture Info Session

Thursday, November 13 | 12:30-1P

College of Law, Room 128

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QUESTIONS
Contact Field & Global Program Coordinator: 

Melanie Matthews >>> melanie.matthews@uwyo.edu