Blog
Browse this page for blog postings related to middle- and high-school-teacher Adventure Learning workshops taking place across Idaho. Use the widgets to the right (or at bottom of this page, for smaller devices) to filter blog posts.
It's Complicated
The more I learn more about the watershed, the more I feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the systems involved. From rivers to reservoirs, to canals to water rights to the water table to geothermal and so on... Between yesterday and today I learned just enough to realize how much I don't know. We talked to the manager of Boise's city geothermal water district and learned that they are governed by the stakeholders needs first and foremost. After talking to the Rick Martin about the diversion damn on the Boise River, it became clear that water rights holders were also the driving factor... more
The Importance of MILES
In my opinion, one of the things (if not THE thing) that makes Idaho so great and what draws so many people to the state to live and play is the large amount of public land. Over 60% of Idaho is public land, placing as 4th among all states for public land (1-Alaska, 2-Nevada, 3-Utah). Whether you are a hunter or angler, a mountain biker or hiker, a horse enthusiast, a kayaker or rafter, a bird watcher, an ATV rider, a fungus hunter (mmmm, morels), a skier or snowshoer, a snowmobile rider, or a motorcyclist or RV enthusiast, (and the list goes on!) you love the recreational opportunities... more
Important Work of the MILES Program and Favorite Water Memory
Last year I participated in the MILES Adventure workshop as an in-person learner. I found the week-long workshop on water resources and ecosystem services very useful and a whole lot of fun! MILES has given me a new perspective on how to frame my lessons on natural resources, especially water, as ecosystem services to my middle-school students in Nampa! Also, the workshop was a great example that adding an element of "adventure" can make learning much more engaging and relevant to students' lives. MILES does a lot of important work, but I think the most impactful aspect of the MILES... more
My Connection to the Boise Watershed....
Most years I am more connected to it than this one. I've been very busy with my family and the water levels have been so high that I haven't gotten the chance to enjoy the opportunities the watershed offers. Typically I fly fish, float the Payette River, swim, and even camp around as many water sources as I can find. This year I have also not planted a garden, which typically requires a strong connection to the use of the watershed (especially with the hot weather) - although, my daughter has used her fair share with the sprinkler under our trampoline.
Connecting to the Boise Watershed
There are many many ways I use the Boise Watershed in my everyday life. I use it for basic daily needs such as showering and watering my lawn. I use it recreationally from riding my bike along the Greenbelt to floating the Boise. This year I have not been able to utilize it as much as I would like to due to the river being too high and the Boise river being closed until further notice.
Going the Extra MILES
It is really exciting to read about the work MILES is doing. Their research helps ensure that our ecosystem is closely watched to detect changes, patterns, and come up with valuable information that can be used to preserve and protect our land and the resources it gives us. Not only does MILES do its own valuable research, but they have great programs for all kinds of students interested in learning more about our socio-ecological system and how to keep it healthy. These programs encourage students to pursue a career in ecological sciences by creating authentic research experiences. And... more