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Based in Atlin, British Columbia, our Taku River Watershed Program takes place in the traditional territory of our long-time partners, the Taku River Tlingit First Nation (TRTFN), and spans two remarkable northern landscapes: the Taku River Watershed and Yukon Headwaters. The Taku River Watershed is the largest non-road-accessible watershed on the Pacific Coast of North America. It supports all five species of Pacific salmon, steelhead, a healthy grizzly bear population, wolves, woodland caribou, mountain goats, moose, eagles, and migratory birds.The Taku spans multiple bioclimatic zones, containing both boreal and coastal ecosystems, glacially fed rivers and lakes, and major wetlands.
The Yukon Headwaters emanate from Atlin Lake, the largest natural lake in British Columbia. This boreal system is characterized by mountains and lakes, long daylight hours in the summer, and cold northern winters.
These landscapes have been stewarded by TRTFN since time immemorial. Round River has been working with TRTFN for over 25 years; we provide technical support and on-the-ground capacity to further TRTFN’s land protection vision. Our efforts combine scientific research, Indigenous Knowledge documentation, strategic planning, and on-the-ground programming to further a holistic vision of large landscape conservation. This has resulted in over 7 million acres of land protection and research and stewardship actions to protect critical habitats, understand climate change impacts, and monitor species of concern.
Since 2003, our students have played an integral role in Round River’s efforts, both in the Taku and the Yukon headwaters. Students have contributed to research on wolves, grizzly bear, salmon, caribou, sheep, and goats, as well as alpine vegetation surveys and ecological succession monitoring. Students have also worked closely with our Tlingit partners and contributed to projects to monitor traditional food plants, taken part in joint research initiatives, and worked on oral history documentation.
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.
6 Weeks – late June to early august
Financial Support
Field camps will vary based on research locations, and amenities can range from primitive back-country camping where you backpack in everything you may need, to front-country camping with latrines, but without running water.
Throughout the summer, you will have the opportunity to work in a variety of captivating field sites, depending on the specific needs of our projects. This may include work in the boreal forest and alpine peaks east of Atlin and the diverse habitats found south of Atlin Lake. This region boasts stunning landscapes characterized by glaciers and expansive coastal forests. Amidst these breathtaking surroundings, you will delve into fieldwork, gaining valuable insights into the unique ecosystems that thrive in Atlin.
Our academics complement the field research and are designed to be interactive and hands-on. You can expect to dedicate a few hours each day to working on your field journals, engaging in group discussions on relevant articles, participating in lectures and class activities, and deepening your understanding of natural history. Guest lectures, when possible, will further enrich your knowledge of conservation and land-use planning in the area. Each program culminates with the completion of a final written research paper, focusing on one aspect of the project, accompanied by a presentation.
You are expected to partake in camp chores and projects, gaining experience in communal living and project management. The group will help with tasks such as cooking, maintaining clean and organized communal spaces, logistics planning, risk assessment for projects, and data entry.
Schedules will vary depending on the needs of projects, academics, and group well-being, as well as the specific program location, with days off interspersed for relaxation or exploration. At base camp, each day may include a mix of academics, project planning, downtime, and chores. In the field, days may be filled with hiking, backpacking, and field work, with interspersed academic sessions, relaxation time, and general camp upkeep. Evenings are typically spent at camp. Due to the dynamic nature of our programs, schedules may change frequently, so we ask that you be flexible and adaptable. We encourage students to arrive with a positive attitude and a willingness to learn, embracing the opportunity to make the most of their experience.
Before each program, you will need to complete several paperwork packets and attend orientation sessions. For detailed information on these requirements, as well as important details such as vaccine recommendations, please refer to the post-acceptance/pre-departure page [here].
You are responsible for your personal gear while on the program. Here is a short list of necessary, big-ticket items required for a summer term in Canada. A comprehensive packing list tailored to your specific program will be provided post-enrollment. Tents, group gear and field equipment will be provided on the program.
If you’re traveling with a United States passport, you don’t need to apply for a visa before departure.
Get an in-depth view of our Taku Student Program from current student and alumni experiences.
