Lake and Stream Ecology

This class has been cancelled for 2026. Please check later for next year.

Summer 2026, July 27st - Aug 13th

A scientist sits at the edge of a high alpine lake while collecting water samples

Abby Ross collecting water samples from the outlet of Green Lake 4.

Lake and Stream Ecology covers the principles of biological, physical, and chemical processes of inland waters. Through lectures, field trips, lab exercises, and independent projects, students will address practical topics related to aquatic ecology, including sources and treatment of drinking water, differences in stream ecosystems from mountains to plains, and effects of natural and anthropogenic factors on lakes and streams. We will study aquatic ecosystems in the area, from lakes in the mountains to rivers on the plains.

Instructor: Dev Niyogi, Missouri University of Science and Technology 
Location: Mountain Research Station and surrounding areas
Dates & Times: July 27st-Aug 13th, Mon-Thur, Mon-Thur, Mon-Thur 8am-5pm
Credit: 3 credit hours in biology (EBIO 4100)
Tuition: $2500 USD (Includes room in a 2-person rustic cabin and all meals at the Mountain Research Station on days when class is in session)

Prerequisite: General ecology or instructor consent

For more information:

Questions about staying at the Mountain Research Station during your course?

Registration begins March 10th.

How to register for this course

 

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A group of students gather around an alpine tundra wetland, with mountains and blue skies behind them
A red-breasted nuthatch sits on a branch with an insect in its beak.
Closeup of a small alpine plant with yellow flowers
An American pika forages avens on Niwot Ridge. Photo by Craig Stevenson.
A scientist sits at the edge of a high alpine lake while collecting water samples
Windy winter weather scene in the subalpine of Colorado. Drifting snowbanks lie at the foot of krumholtz crippled trees with snowy mountains in the background (Photo: Bill Bowman)