Yellowstone: Ecology & Conservation

Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, established in 1872, and is a beloved American treasure. National parks like Yellowstone allow visitors to experience the wonders of the natural world up close and to observe unique geological features and incredible wildlife. Protected lands such as Yellowstone are rare resources that must balance the sometimes-conflicting interests of wildlife, tourism, and scientific research. More recently, the National Park Service has also been tasked with protecting these lands from the growing threats of fire and other climate-related disasters.

Our trip to Yellowstone will provide a unique experience that most visitors never have. We will be visiting the park in the winter and working with the Yellowstone Forever program, exploring the ecological and environmental effects of the reintroduction of wolves and how animals and the environment adapt to life in the park during the snowy winter months. During the day, we will learn by doing: hiking and snowshoeing in the park daily while making measurements and observations. On one of our final days, we will take an all-day hike to explore the effects of climate change on the park and its inhabitants, with a special focus on recent wildfires. Throughout the trip, we will continue to study how to preserve, conserve, and protect our shared natural resources.

Our home base will be a cabin facility near the northern entrance to the park. We will cook group meals and spend most of our days inside Yellowstone. You should be comfortable with cold and snowy winter weather—conditions in early March can be quite variable! This will be a rewarding adventure for lovers of the outdoors, those interested in the science of ecology, and those with a passion for conservation. Bring your enthusiasm, your hiking boots, and your parka!

Educational Goals:

  • Contribute to real scientific research and develop field research skills

  • Learn ecological principles of wildlife reintroduction, ecosystem disturbance recovery, restoration ecology, trophic interactions, and winter ecology
    Observe how the National Park System balances the priorities of conservation, recreational access, and scientific study

Instructors: Laura Denton & Brian Hannen
Open to: Grades 9-12
Limit: 12 students
Cost: $1,575
Local Day: Friday, March 6
Travel Dates: Sunday, March 8 - Friday, March 13