Mid Klamath Youth Explore the Upper Klamath Basin
From May 27 to 29, MKWC partnered with Save California Salmon to lead a youth trip to the Upper Klamath Basin. Students in grades 5 through 8 from Happy Camp Elementary School, Klamath River Union Elementary School, and a local homeschool family joined together for three days of learning, exploring, and connecting.
Students and staff visited key cultural, historical, and ecological sites such as the former J.C. Boyle Dam site, Moonshine Falls, Captain Jack's Stronghold, Lava Beds National Monument, the Wood River Headwaters, and Crater Lake National Park. During the trip, youth learned about dam removal, fisheries, geology, water resources, local Tribal history and perspectives, and habitat stewardship through presentations and hands-on activities led by members of the Klamath Tribes, the Modoc Nation, agency staff, educators, and partner groups.
The trip also offered journaling, exploring caves, cultural activities, talks about water use in the Klamath Basin, and chances to make friends and connect with the land. Experiencing a place like the Upper Basin first hand can provide a deep kind of learning that is remembered in mind, body, and heart. Moments like standing at the cave where Captain Jack held council and hearing the story from the descendants of the people who fought there, or plunging at daybreak into the emerald cold waters of the Klamath River headwaters become powerful memories. Those memories and experiences can help to expand students' understanding of the resources available to them and of their opportunities for community throughout the Klamath River Watershed.
Throughout the experience, students had the opportunity to draw cultural and ecological connections between the Upper Basin and where they live in the Mid Klamath. They learned that although there are unique differences between the two regions, we are connected by one river. A presenter from the Klamath Tribes told them, "You can say 'hi' to the water here, and then when you get home you can say 'hi' to that same water again." These memories can help expand students’ understanding of the resources available to them and of their opportunities for community throughout the Klamath River watershed.
Melissa Rhodes, a teacher with Happy Camp Elementary School reflected on the experience: “The Upper Basin field was rooted in science, giving students the opportunity to explore the natural world through hands-on observation and investigation. At the same time, it enriched their understanding of history and Native American culture. Through this adventure, our students connected with the Klamath River on every level – intellectually, emotionally, and physically.”
This project was made possible by the support of the Klamath River Fund: Community Impact Grant of the Humboldt Area Foundation + Wild Rivers Community Foundation and the State of California Natural Resources Agency: Youth Community Access Program. Thank you to Save California Salmon, Klamath Tribes, Modoc Nation, and all the partners that contributed to this project.
