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
April 20, 2026
CSU partnership strengthens Poudre Watershed restoration efforts through new grant
Research associate Rachel Spurrier has written a story for SOURCE highlighting a partnership between Coalition for the Poudre River Watershed and the research group. A new grant supporting CPRW and CSU will support restoration efforts along the Poudre. Read the full story to learn more.
April 7, 2026
Aleah Hahn receives NSF travel award for summer 2026
PhD candidate Aleah Hahn has received an NSF scholarship to study abroad in Italy this summer! Aleah will be visiting Trento, Italy, to join an interdisciplinary group of graduate students studying glaciers in a changing climate.
March 19, 2026
Cat McClure and Danny White selected by RIVER Field Studies Network for fellowship
Postdoctoral fellow Cat McClure and former research group member Danny White, now an Assistant Professor of Civil & Environmental Engineering at CSU, have been selected by the RIVER Field Studies Network to participate in 10 months of training and mentorship. They’ll focus on field-based education to connect rivers, people, and science. Congrats, Cat and Danny!
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.