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WATS 5624 - Syllabus

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Catalog Description

This course introduces Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration of Riverscapes implementation. Students will construct structures like PALS (post-assisted log structures) and BDAs (beaver dam analogues) on student-designed projects, explore consultation and permitting, and become proficient in construction safety and logistics.

TitleImplementation of Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration of Riverscapes
Course NumberWATS 5624
Semester OfferedSpring
Credits1.0 Credit (1.5 CEU)
LevelsGraduate / Undergraduate
ScheduleHybrid Face-to-Face Lecture
Cross-listedCEWA 5624

← Back to Spring 2024 LTPBR Courses

Schedule

Spring 2024 - Implementation of LTPBR

  • Matriculated Students: WATS 5624
  • Non-USU / Professional Students: CEWA 5624 — Register Here
ClassTimeDayWhereDateInstructor
Implementing LTPBR1:30–4:15 pmTuesdayZoomApril 9, 2024Stephen Bennett
Field Trip7:30 am–5:30 pmSaturdayFieldApril 13, 2024Stephen Bennett

Outline dates and assignments will be posted on Canvas:
Canvas Course Page (Spring 2024)

Discussion Topics

Meeting DateModulesTopics
4/9/20245.2–5.5Overview, Consultation & Permitting, Logistics & Safety, Construction of PALS & BDAs
4/13/20245.6Field Day — Constructing an LTPBR Project

This course is based on Module 5 of the self-paced materials.
Module 5 Materials (slides, videos, exercises)

Fees

  • Matriculated Students: current USU tuition for 1 credit, plus $100 course fee for field trip expenses
  • Continuing Education Students: $415 (includes $370 course fee + $45 CEU processing fee)

Professional Registration

Course Objectives

By the end of this course, you will:

  1. Understand consultation and permitting processes
  2. Apply low-tech construction techniques safely
  3. Create an adaptive management plan, including maintenance and future phases
  4. Document as-built conditions

Instructors

Lead Instructor

  • Stephen Bennett
    Ecologist, Adjunct Professor, Principal at Anabranch Solutions
    Office Hours: By appointment

Instructor

  • Joe Wheaton
    Professor of Riverscapes, Principal at Anabranch Solutions
    Group office hours: Tuesdays 11:00–12:00 MT (in NR360 or via Zoom)

Teaching Assistants

  • Sandra Johnson (Masters Student, MoER)
  • Alec Arditti (by appointment)

For communication, please use Canvas discussion boards or direct messages.

Instructor Affiliations

Course Resources

The course is organized in modules with slides, videos, and readings. Assignments (both formative and graded) will be posted on Canvas with rubrics.

Canvas Course Page (Spring 2024)

Module 5 - Implementation Materials

Course Textbooks

Required Texts

Key Focus Chapters: 4 and 6

Grading

GradeRange
A93–100%
A-90–92.9%
B+87–89.9%
B83–86.9%
B-80–82.9%
C+77–79.9%
C73–76.9%
C-70–72.9%
D+67–69.9%
D60–66.9%
Fbelow 60%

University Policies & Procedures

Attendance
USU attendance policy applies. Attendance and participation in live discussions is required. Notify the instructor for excused absences.

Library Services
USU Libraries offer extensive resources online and in print.

Classroom Civility
USU expects respectful, civil behavior in class. Student Code V-3

Academic Freedom & Integrity
USU supports academic freedom and expects academic honesty. Review the USU Academic Integrity policy and Faculty Code 403.

Disability Services
Contact the Disability Resource Center early for accommodations.

Diversity & Inclusion
USU fosters a respectful learning environment. Visit the Office of Equity or USU Diversity Resources for assistance.

Mental Health
Confidential counseling is available at CAPS. Students are also encouraged to install the SafeUT App for 24/7 mental health support.

Emergency Procedures
In emergencies, follow campus safety protocols. USU Emergency