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WATS/CEWA 5620 - Course Syllabus

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Catalog Description

This course provides an introduction to the practice of Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration (LTPBR) of riverscapes. Students will learn about riverscape degradation, examples of low-tech restoration, and core restoration principles.

TitleIntroduction to Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration of Riverscapes
Course NumberWATS 5620
Semester OfferedSpring
Credits1.0 Credit (1.5 CEU)
LevelGraduate / Undergraduate
ScheduleHybrid Face-to-Face Lecture
Cross-listedCEWA 5620

← Back to Spring 2025 LTPBR Courses


Schedule

Spring 2025 - Intro to LTPBR

Registration opens November 6, 2024.

ClassTimeDaysLocationDatesInstructor
Intro to LTPBR1:30–4:15 pmTuesdaysZoomJan 7, 14, 21 2025Joe Wheaton

Course materials will be available in Canvas 2 weeks before the start date.

Course Schedule & Topics

DateModuleTopics
Jan 7, 20251.1Background & Scope of Degradation, Build Your First BDA
Jan 14, 20251.2Intro to Low-Tech Tools, Guiding Principles
Jan 21, 20251.3Partnering with Beaver, Synthesis

Access Module 1 Resources (slides, videos, exercises)


Fees

  • Matriculated Students: pay standard USU tuition.
    Register through Banner.

  • Continuing Education Students: $315 (includes $45 CEU processing fee).
    Registration opens November 6, 2024.


Course Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the scope of riverscape degradation.
  2. Identify a vision for what healthy riverscapes could look like.
  3. Recognize various low-tech treatments and practices.
  4. Apply Principles of Riverscape Health for condition assessment.
  5. Distinguish LTPBR principles from traditional restoration.
  6. Articulate why and where beaver activity supports LTPBR.

Instructors

Joe Wheaton
Professor of Riverscapes
Principal at Anabranch Solutions
Joe’s Office Hours: Tuesdays 11–12 MT in person (NR360) or Zoom


Instructor Affiliations


Course Resources

The course will use:

  • Slides (PDF)
  • Video lectures (YouTube)
  • Required readings (Design Manual + Pocket Guide)

Assignments will be posted in Canvas.

Module 1 Resources


Required Textbooks

Mandatory Texts — you may use digital or printed:

Focus on Chapters 1, 2, and 7 of the Design Manual.


Course Grading

Points will be awarded for quizzes and exercises as listed in Canvas. Rubrics will be provided.

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

USU policies apply, including:

If you experience barriers or need accommodations, please reach out to the instructor or DRC as early as possible.