Future Compact Mini Unit

Overview

Shawna Mattson, a high school science teacher in Green River, developed this mini unit, which engages students in exploring the history and future of water management in the Colorado River Basin through data, personal narratives, and policy development. Using the 1922 Colorado River Compact as a foundation, students investigate how water systems, ecosystems, and human needs intersect while considering the challenges of balancing water use in a changing environment. Through field experiences, reflection, and collaborative activities, students develop their own perspectives about water and create recommendations for a future water compact that integrates both scientific evidence and considers multiple perspectives.

Shawna's overview of this activity is linked HERE. Scroll down to the Resources & Links section of this page to check out their specific materials.

Goals

• Build student understanding of the challenges surrounding Colorado River water management
• Support students in interpreting scientific data and evaluating complex environmental issues
• Encourage students to explore multiple perspectives and competing needs related to water use
• Help students connect personal experiences and narratives to broader environmental systems
• Develop skills in evaluating tradeoffs and designing evidence-based solutions
• Promote student reflection about the role and meaning of water in their lives and communities

Implementation & Outcomes

• Implemented with high school students in Green River
• Students engaged with The Hardest-Working River in the West StoryMap to investigate topics, such as water use, shortages, management challenges, and future strategies
•  Jigsaw activities allowed expert groups to share information with others
• Students participated in journaling, sketching and narrative activities connecting scientific information with personal experiences
• Field experiences and interviews with local experts and community partners allowed students to better understand how water systems operate across different contexts
• Students synthesized scientific information, stakeholder perspectives, and personal reflections to develop recommendations for a future Colorado River Compact presented to the county water board

Resources & Links

• Future Compact Mini Unit
• Standards for Future Compact Mini Unit

Contact for More Information

For more details about this program or to learn how to incorporate similar activities in your school, please reach out to the TRKE program coordinators at smtcpd@uwyo.edu.