Salmon River Basin Sampling

By: Brey Weygandt

Going all across Idaho to ask people what they value about the Salmon River Basin – now that’s what I call grad school!

When we first started planning these trips, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’ve taken folks down these rivers before, leading whitewater rafting trips or backpacking journeys, but this summer is different. This time, I’m trying to draw people into the little Vandal-branded booth we’ve been setting up at every event we can get to. Our goal? To understand what people value about the Salmon River basin. 

Nate Moody, U of I faculty, discussing the importance of connection to place at Redside Rendezvous

We kicked things off at Redside Rendezvous in Riggins, ID, an event hosted by the Redside Foundation to support river guides and help them connect with one another. These are my people!!! As a research team, we had the chance to talk (at length!) with attendees about our project, which focuses on understanding natural resource values and use throughout the Salmon River watershed. The conversations were awesome: guides with decades of experience on the river, long-time residents, folks involved in logging and other industries, and more.

Everyone had a different relationship with the Basin, and that’s exactly what we were there to learn about. When we weren’t holding down the booth, we were enjoying Dutch oven cook-offs, watching short films about the Redside Foundation and efforts to improve the guiding community, and chatting with other professionals. 

Brey and Natalia perfecting hotel lobby check-out sampling at Redside Rendezvous

Survey incentives put to good use at Big Water Blowout

Next up was Big Water Blowout, also in Riggins. This annual event marks the time of year when the river runs high, the salmon are swimming upstream, and boaters are out in force. Compared to Redside, the vibe was completely different: live music, drink vendors, kids on slacklines, the works. We were here with the same purpose in mind–connecting with people and asking what they value about this place. Our survey sparked all kinds of conversations in the little circles gathered across City Park, with folks stoked to share their thoughts and perspectives. 

Most recently, we traveled to Stanley, ID for the Sawtooth Valley Gathering. I hadn’t been to Stanley since I was 14, and returning to the Sawtooths with a fresh set of eyes was beautiful. Unfortunately, not long after setting up, the unpredictable, but totally-expected happened: a big ol' storm rolled in. Attendees fled the concert venue, and our booth, due to freezing rain and high winds. After waiting it out with little reprieve, we made the tough call to pack up early. It was a great learning experience for myself and my partner (and a reminder to never forget burly layers again). 

Perfect (Idaho) survey weather at Sawtooth Gathering

We’re looking forward to the events to come. If you see the Vandal tent out and about this summer, swing by, we’d love to hear what you value about the Salmon River Basin!