WILD ROCKIES

January 2025 Newsletter

The Future is Bright ☀️

And We Can't Wait to Share it with You

To our beloved WRFI community:

Now that the rush of the holidays and new year have wrapped up, we want to thank you for an incredible 2024 of WRFI courses, where we not only learned and explored together, but also built a stronger, more connected community. Your passion and commitment to our mission and future have been truly inspiring, and we so appreciate your contributions toward shaping our society's future leaders.

Here’s to more adventures, growth, and shared experiences in 2025. We look forward to continuing this journey together!

Adult Course Reminder

For Learners of All Ages!

Now's the time to start planning your adventure with WRFI this year! Our new weeklong adult courses are taking place this fall in beautiful areas across Montana, and we can't wait to have you join us!

These non-credit courses are designed for individuals seeking professional and personal growth, community-building, and adventure. Engage in immersive learning experiences in stunning natural settings, guided by expert instructors. Whether you’re looking to deepen your understanding of environmental issues, develop new skills, or connect with like-minded individuals, WRFI’s adult courses provide a unique opportunity for enriching and transformative experiences.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us at wrfi@wrfi.net!

If you have a network with whom you'd like to share about these courses, please let us know and we can send promotional materials!

Note: A previous newsletter listed incorrect dates for River Ecology. The correct dates are September 21-27!

MTAA Scholarship Announcement

Matt Thomas Scholarship

For the first time in WRFI’s history, we are vastly increasing the scholarship amount awarded to applicants of the Matt Thomas Scholarship, which is specific to our Montana Afoot & Afloat course. We will be awarding two scholarships worth $2,500 each and one scholarship worth $5,000. This discount vastly decreases the cost of our iconic fall semester course, and we encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity. This year, Montana Afoot and Afloat is taking place from August 29th-October 30th and is work 15 semester credits. This immersive program combines environmental education, outdoor exploration, and cultural learning, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with and deepen their understanding of Montana’s landscapes and ecosystems.

Don’t miss your opportunity to receive this unheard of scholarship. Apply today and please reach out to kelsey.wellington@wrfi.net if you have any questions! You can learn more about the course specifics and curriculum here:

Featured Course: Cycle the Rockies

28 Field Days | 6 Semester Credits | $5,996 - $7,495

June 13 - July 8, 2025

This course takes place on a bicycle tour of Montana, beginning in the ranchlands and coalfields near Billings, through various energy production facilities on the central plains, to the center of energy policy debates at the state capitol in Helena, and finally over the Divide to Glacier National Park. Students on this course will explore the ecological, social, and economic issues associated with energy production and use, and global climate change. We will traverse rolling plains and beautiful mountains, enjoying the changing landscapes and meeting with people deeply involved in energy and climate issues. Traveling by bicycle will give us a unique perspective and an appropriate pace for examining the past, present and future of energy and climate change in the West.

Fresh from the Field: Stella Roloff

Why Should Sacred Things Be Left Alone?

Have you ever wondered how certain things become classified as sacred and deserve to be left undisturbed? In her powerful new blog post, Stella Roloff explores the deep meaning behind why certain places, practices, and beliefs should be respected and protected. Dive into this thought-provoking read to reflect on the sacredness in our own lives.