The Confluence Project

The Confluence Project (TCP) is a yearlong program pairing scientific experts with high schools across North Idaho. Partners from University of Idaho, the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Trout Unlimited, Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, Panhandle Health and IdaH2O team up to promote hands-on experience, field data collection and higher education degrees in the natural sciences.

With nearly 500 participants every year, TCP connects students to North Idaho’s lakes, streams, mountains and aquifer through a combination of on-site studies and classroom work.

Throughout the school year, TCP teachers introduce water resource issues in the classroom and guide their students in a comprehensive research project. During multiple field excursions, students collect and analyze local water resource data. In the spring, they develop a driving question related to a real-world water resource issue, thoroughly research, collect data and propose a relevant solution.

The project culminates in the Youth Water Summit where students present their research projects. More than 100 volunteer judges from the scientific community contribute to the success and growth of this event. The Youth Water Summit encourages students to dig deeper into local water issues while providing an opportunity to experience a professional scientific conference.

Volunteer with the Confluence Project

TCP is truly a community-led effort requiring the assistance, expertise and passion of hundreds of volunteers every year. If you have experience in environmental science, water quality issues or other applicable fields and would like to support TCP during field trips or as a summit judge, contact the project team at mikewood@uidaho.edu.

The Confluence Project changed my whole perspective on science and the environment. It’s so beneficial for students.” Toni Eells

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