Advancing science at the intersection of rivers and human systems.
Our work brings together hydrology, geomorphology, and human systems to support resilient riverscapes and ecosystems.
Studying the interactions of flow, sediment, ecosystems, and human activity in rivers
Our work explores how flowing water, landscapes, ecosystems, and human activity interact in and around river systems. By combining physical and ecological science, we investigate river processes from beads to watersheds. We are an applied, hands-on group working with restoration projects in real time, informing current and future efforts to increase the resilience of river systems.
Our work is…
Interdisciplinary
We integrate hydrology, geomorphology, ecology, and social perspectives to understand river systems.
Cooperative
We work closely with students, communities, and partners to co-produce meaningful river science.
Systems-oriented
We study rivers as connected networks where physical, ecological, and human processes interact.
“We are all connected to this river. What happens to it happens to us.”
—Winona LaDuke
Latest news
February 5, 2026
Nick Christensen wins best presentation at CPRW Flash Talks
PhD candidate Nick Christensen won “best talk” at Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed’s flash talks. His presentation on modeling flood attenuation across river networks struck just the right balance between rigorous science and well-timed humor. Congratulations, Nick!
January 21, 2026
Mariah Papac begins sustainability fellowship program
PhD candidate Nick Christensen won “best talk” at Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed’s flash talks. His presentation on modeling flood attenuation across river networks struck just the right balance between rigorous science and well-timed humor. Congratulations, Nick!
December 11, 2025
New decision support tool improves river management collaboration
Research assistant Rachel Spurrier has written a story for SOURCE highlighting the group’s work. The team developed a new decision-support tool to improve collaboration in river management, modeling, and visualization so users can explore scenarios and tradeoffs more easily. Read the full story to learn more.
Why this work matters
Transforming scientific discoveries into practical solutions
Rivers are shaped by constant interactions of flow, sediment, living systems, and human decisions. Our group studies these relationships to better understand how river networks evolve and how ecosystems respond to change. In a changing climate, more frequent and severe wildfires, floods, and droughts will affect rivers and the species that depend on them. Our goal is to advance scientific understanding while supporting restoration, ecological resilience, and sustainable relationships between rivers and the communities that depend on them.