OVERVIEW​

At Project Big  Wood, we believe that a fundamental part of improving and restoring the Big Wood River ecosystem is fostering a deep care for stewardship of our natural resources. With our Youth Stewardship programs, we aim to help children develop a base knowledge around the Big Wood, including both the challenges it faces and its unique attributes. 

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In programs such as our water sampling with the Sage School, we create a hands-on learning environment by directly involving kids in the scientific process. The students are responsible for recording all data themselves and taking the water sample according to scientific protocols. 

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In programs with education and enrichment as the focus, such as the Far and Wise Explorers of Idaho Base Camp, we often serve as the kids' first introduction to the Big Wood River. Our goal is to spark curiosity about the river and its inhabitants, as well as share the interconnectedness of it all through fun and engaging lesson plans. 

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PROJECT GOALS & BENEFITS

• Inspire the next generation: Connect young people with the Big Wood River through hands-on science and stewardship

• Build conservation knowledge: Teach students about water quality, river ecology, and fisheries

• Support PBW’s monitoring efforts: Integrate youth learning with real data collection for the State of the Big Wood

• Strengthen community partnerships: Collaborate with schools and youth organizations to expand impact

• Foster stewardship values: Cultivate a lifelong ethic of care for rivers, wildlife, and ecosystem conservation

• Promote ecosystem health: Field activities link classroom learning to tangible improvements in river and watershed stewardship
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PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SAGE SCHOOL & FAR AND WISE EXPLORERS

We’re proud to partner with The Sage School to engage the next generation of river stewards. Water quality on the Big Wood has historically been understudied, and this partnership helps fill critical data gaps while connecting students directly to the health of their home river.

As part of PBW’s Youth Stewards initiative, Sage School’s 8/9 class dedicates one afternoon each month to collect samples at four mainstem sites on the Big Wood River. Students gather water samples, record pH levels, measure conductivity, and explore aquatic insects as indicators of river health.

The Youth Stewards Program also includes work on ecosystem health through partnerships with Idaho Basecamp and Far and Wise, expanding opportunities for young people to experience, study, and care for the Big Wood River. ​