WATS 6900 §6 – Course Syllabus
Catalog Description
This course introduces the implementation phase of Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration (LTPBR) of riverscapes. Students will design and build low-tech structures such as PALS (post-assisted log structures) and BDAs (beaver dam analogues), and gain skills in consultation, permitting, construction safety, and project logistics.
Title | Implementation of Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration of Riverscapes |
---|---|
Semester Offered | Spring |
Credits | 1.0 Credit hour (1.5 CEU) |
Levels | Graduate/Undergraduate |
Schedule Types | Hybrid Face-to-Face Lecture |
Cross-Listed As | CEWA 5700 (WATS/CEWA 5624 from 2022 onward) |
← Back to Spring 2021 LTPBR Courses
Schedule
Spring 2021 – Implementation of LTPBR
- Matriculated Students: ST:IMP LOWTEC PRCBAS REST RIV - 37989 - WATS 6900 - 006
- Non-Matriculated Students: 26398 - CEWA 5700 - LB5
Class | Time | Days | Where | Dates | Instructors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Implementing LTPBR | 1:30–3:30 pm | Tuesday | Zoom | Apr 20, 2021 | Scott Shahverdian, Joe Wheaton, Stephen Bennett, Nicolaas Bouwes |
Implementing LTPBR | 7:30 am–5:30 pm | Saturday | Field Trip | Apr 24, 2021 | Same instructors |
Canvas Link:
Canvas Course Page
Course Meeting Modules
Date | Modules | Topics |
---|---|---|
Apr 20 | 5.2–5.5 | Overview, Consultation & Permitting, Logistics & Safety, PALS & BDA Construction, Adaptive Management |
Apr 24 | 5.6 | Field Day – Practical Project Construction |
Module 5 resources (slides, lectures, and exercises):
Module 5 – Implementation
Fees
- Matriculated Students: standard USU tuition (details) + $100 course fee for field trip (covers construction supplies, travel, safety gear, etc.)
- Continuing Ed Students: $371.88 (register here)
Register for Module 5 – Implementation
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, you will:
- Understand consultation and permitting processes
- Apply safe low-tech construction techniques
- Create an adaptive management plan for maintenance and future phases
- Document as-built conditions and field results
Instructors
-
Scott Shahverdian
- ResearchGate
- Fluvial Geomorphologist, Associate Design Geomorphologist at Anabranch Solutions
- Office Hours: By appointment
-
Stephen Bennett
- ResearchGate
- Ecologist, USU Adjunct Professor, Principal at Anabranch Solutions
- Office Hours: By appointment
-
Joseph Wheaton
-
Nicolaas Bouwes
- ResearchGate
- Aquatic Ecologist, USU Adjunct Professor, Principal at Anabranch Solutions
- Office Hours: By appointment
Group Office Hours: Wednesday 12–1pm on Zoom
Canvas Messaging Preferred: please use Canvas for communication.
Instructor Affiliations
Course Resources
This course is built around modules with slides, videos, and readings. All materials and assignments are posted on Canvas.
Additional module resources:
Module 5 – Implementation
Course Textbooks:
- Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration of Riverscapes: Design Manual (PDF, Amazon)
- Pocket Field Guide (PDF, purchase waterproof)
Grading
Grade | Range |
---|---|
A | 93–100% |
A- | 90–93% |
B+ | 87–90% |
B | 83–87% |
B- | 80–83% |
C+ | 77–80% |
C | 73–77% |
C- | 70–73% |
D+ | 67–70% |
D | 60–67% |
F | below 60% |
Rubrics and assessment criteria are described in Canvas.
University Policies
This course complies with all USU academic policies, including:
- Attendance & Excused Absence
- Academic Integrity
- Student Code of Conduct
- Withdrawal & Incomplete Grades
- Disability Resources
- Diversity & Inclusion Resources
- Mental Health Resources
For a complete list, refer to:
USU Academic Policies and Procedures