Manhattan, KS Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration Field Workshop
October 24–26, 2023
Hosted by Ducks Unlimited, Kansas Alliance for Wetland & Streams, and Juniper Environmental, with support from the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Workshop content is based on more than 20 LTPBR workshops taught by Utah State University and supported by 2020 online modules.
Workshop Description
This workshop introduces participants to “low-tech” process-based approaches for restoring streams and their riparian areas (riverscapes) to benefit fish, wildlife, and working lands. Participants will learn principles behind low-tech process-based restoration and become familiar with hand-built structures including Beaver Dam Analogues (BDAs) and Post-Assisted Log Structures (PALS). You’ll gain basic skills in planning, design, and implementation. The workshop includes lectures, discussions, exercises, and hands-on construction in the field on Day 3.
Learn more about the LTPBR Design Manual
Agenda
Days 1 & 2 — Classroom Instruction
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Day 1 (9 AM – 5 PM)
Introduction to Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration and Underlying Science & Case Studies- Evening dinner and talk by rancher Jay Wilde at Flint Hills Discovery Center, 6:30–9:00 PM.
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Day 2 (9 AM – 5 PM)
Planning and Designing Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration
Days 1 & 2 held at: Kansas State University Alumni Center
Google Maps
Day 3 — Field Construction
- Day 3 (8:30 AM – 3 PM)
Implementing Low-Tech Process-Based Restoration
Meet at: 38.827883 N, -96.489273 W
~50 minutes from Manhattan, KS.
Course Materials
Slides, videos, and handouts will be drawn from the following modules:
- Module 1 - Introduction
- Module 2 - Science
- Module 3 - Planning
- Module 4 - Design
- Module 5 - Implementation
Textbooks:
Free digital versions available:
Instruction Team
Joseph Wheaton
Professor of Riverscapes
Joseph Wheaton ResearchGate
Jeremy Maestas
Ecologist
Jeremy Maestas ResearchGate
Dominique Shore
Fluvial Geomorphologist
Dominique Shore Profile
Instructor Affiliations
Logistics
Registration
Registration is free, by invitation only. Contact Dominique Shore for information.
Lodging
Book before October 1, 2023 for discounted rates:
- Holiday Inn on KSU Campus — $107
Hotel Info
Group Rate Link (Group Code: NRC)
Cancellation within 48 hours or no-shows forfeit deposit. All rooms non-smoking.
Field Gear
Day 3 is hands-on field construction. Be prepared for fall weather ranging from hot and sunny to cold and snowy. Recommended:
- Chest waders & wading boots
- Layers, gloves, hat, sunscreen
- Change of clothes
- Worksite-appropriate clothing (no open-toed shoes)
PPE (gloves, hard hats, eye protection, ear protection) will be provided.
If you have allergies or medical conditions, please notify instructors in advance.
Meals
- Day 1: coffee, snacks, lunch, dinner included
- Day 2: coffee, snacks, lunch included (dinner on your own)
- Day 3: bag lunch, snacks, drinks in field included (bring own water bottle; dinner on your own)
Gluten-free options available, other dietary needs please plan accordingly.
Jay Wilde's Birch Creek Story
Jay Wilde will share his experience reintroducing beavers to Birch Creek on Day 1 evening.
Read More About Birch Creek
Questions?
Return to the Workshops Home for more information.