2027 Applications Open March 1

GREATER YELLOWSTONE ECOSYSTEM

Winter Ecology

WINTER ECOLOGY

Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem / Grand Teton National Park

Measure the dynamic temperature and stability of a snowpack in the Tetons, track ungulates as they search for forage in a riparian area, and marvel at the subnivean climate, home to small mammals throughout the winter months. Taught by seasoned field science instructors of Teton Science Schools, this program will include:

Skills of the Winter Naturalist
Emphasizes field naturalist skills, the effects of winter abiotic conditions on organisms and subsequent adaptations to these conditions, animal tracking, introduction to snow dynamics and winter safety.

Snowpack Dynamics and Snow Science
Emphasizes snow science and avalanche safety through lectures and inquiry-based field laboratories.

Wildlife and Plant Adaptations
Emphasizes animal and plant adaptations to cope with the stresses of winter, as well as the predicted impacts of climate change, through lectures and inquiry-based field laboratories. Students also conduct field research in a winter environment.

Instructors: Faculty of Teton Science Schools

DATES & CREDITS

J-TERM FIELD PROGRAM
Immerse yourself in the winter wilderness of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem at Teton Science Schools' Kelly Campus. You will combine hands-on field research with classroom learning to explore animal tracking, learn cross-country skiing, and practice plant identification while creating detailed naturalist journals.

Field Experience

2027 Dates January 2-14, 2027

PROGRAM ADMISSION

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

PROGRAM FEE TBD $2,000*

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 equipment.

What's Not Included round trip transportation to Kelly, WY, select meals (including travel days), personal clothing and linens, and UW tuition/fees for spring semester credits.

*amount includes TSS scholarship support - thank you TSS!

SCHOLARSHIPS & FUNDING

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.

HIGHLIGHTS

cross-country ski and snowshoe through pristine winter landscapes of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem while learning essential winter field skills - instruction and equipment included!
track animals and observe wildlife behavior at the National Elk Refuge, studying species like elk, bison, and predators in their winter habitat
analyze snow pits and assess snowpack conditions, examining crystal formation, metamorphism, and avalanche safety fundamentals
investigate subnivean microclimate research exploring the hidden world beneath the snow where small mammals survive harsh winters
study plant and animal adaptations in sub-zero conditions, exploring physiological and behavioral strategies for winter survival
conduct independent research projects on winter ecology topics with data collection, analysis, and peer presentations to develop scientific communication skills
create naturalist journals and practice field documentation techniques using methods suitable for winter data collection and observation
learn winter survival skills and safety protocols essential for conducting fieldwork in extreme cold environments

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This program involves active outdoor experiences in extreme winter conditions requiring moderate physical fitness and cold weather tolerance.

Participants should be prepared for extended periods outdoors in sub-zero temperatures, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on varied terrain, conducting field research while wearing heavy winter gear, and staying in heated dormitory-style accommodations.

You'll spend full days outdoors in the Greater Yellowstone winter environment with variable weather conditions, including potentially extreme cold, wind exposure, and deep snow.

LEARN MORE

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

Winter Ecology Info Session

Wednesday, November 12 | 6:30P | virtual: https://uwyo.zoom.us/j/93049654942v

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QUESTIONS
Contact Field & Global Program Coordinator:

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

APPLY NOW

"Within the first two days, we were taught how to cross-country ski and snowshoe. The amount and quality of field learning experiences was incredible and being able to learn outside in the winter was especially unique. My favorite part of my time at Winter Ecology was playing in the snow – for the sake of science, of course! We meandered through the woods surrounding campus to apply our new winter tracking skills. We dug through the snow to the ground to examine snow layers. We skied in Grand Teton National Park to get a glimpse of Teton Glacier. We had many opportunities to get outside and learn in the field. Place-based learning provides opportunities for greater understanding that I haven’t found in a classroom. My Winter Ecology experience did not disappoint!'"

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