Authors: Shahriar Rahman
At the heart of a collaborative research endeavor lies the paramount importance of gathering all collaborators around a shared table. It creates a platform for discussion among collaborators, where we outline the structure of our project—defining our purpose, molding our methods, envisioning outcomes, and sketching the contours of our boundaries. Last September (2023), after a few days of my arrival in the USA, I had the opportunity to explore various state parks in Eastern Idaho. I was accompanied by researchers from the 'Smoke on the Water' project.
Over the last couple of decades, the western U.S., especially the state of Idaho, witnessed the increased magnitude, duration, and frequency of wildfire activity which has been responsible for its poor air quality. Research indicates that the smoke generated by these wildfires has significant implications for the water-based outdoor recreation sector. Recognizing the importance of this issue, the Parks and Recreation Lab at the University of Idaho has taken the initiative to conduct research in this area and arranged a meeting among the collaborators in Eastern Idaho.
On the morning of September 19th, Chris, Anna, Michaela, and I started our journey from the University of Idaho. The beauty and diversity of surrounding landscapes and weather conditions during the 9-hour-long journey captivated me at every moment. The ecosystems I witnessed during this journey were unlike anything in my home country. I had only read about such descriptions in textbooks until then. This experience was truly unique for me. In the evening, we reached a beautiful cottage in Harriman State Park, located in Island Park. Joining us were Jeff and Paige from the University of Utah.
The next morning, we gathered to discuss the research design for the 'Smoke on the Water' project. We decided to focus on the impact of smoke from wildland fires on water-based recreation. Our plan included interviewing River Guides, Outfitters, concessionaires, and others in the field. Later, we started our work around Island Park, engaging in preliminary discussions with potential interviewees.
Amidst challenging weather, we decided to experience ‘River Rafting’ and ‘Fly Fishing’ in Henry's Fork, a tributary of the Snake River. The river flows through ranch land, timber-covered canyons, and spring creek-like sections, attracting people from afar for trout fishing. We spent the whole day fishing approximately 3-4 miles along the river. Despite challenges in Fly Fishing, the beauty of the riverbank, surrounding foliage, and diverse landscapes left a lasting impression on me. The river rafting was on my all-time to-do list, I fulfilled that! Chris introduced himself as a skilled boatman throughout the river journey. While enjoying the beauty of the river and the surroundings, I was contemplating what would happen if the beautiful sunny sky were filled with smoke! Perhaps all the beauty around would disappear, and the lively atmosphere among the visitors might fade away. In such an environment, people even might not want to leave their homes.
In the evening, we delved into discussions about our research pace, methodology, interview locations, and the outcomes. Through extensive conversations, we established a collaborative structure for data collection, analysis, presentation, and a fixed timeline for everything.
The next day, we engaged in detailed discussions with the staff of Harriman State Park about park management. Afterward, we explored the historical lands and cottages of Harriman State Park. We also visited nearby Henry's Lake State Park, known for its trout fishing, and enjoyed the beauty of the serene lake. There I witnessed my first Moose! Later in the same day, we left Harriman State Park and started our journey westwards.
On our way, we ventured to Mesa Falls, a powerful natural waterfall, and visited the Ashton-Tentonia visitor center. Our journey continued to the Land of the Yankee Fork State Park. Its interpretive center provided extensive knowledge about the region's history of gold miners and local traditions. With the park Manager, we then explored Challis Hot Spring. The natural hot spring provided a refreshing experience, surrounded by beautiful camping grounds. We concluded our journey in Salmon City before returning to Moscow the next day.
The return journey, accompanied by the North Fork Salmon River, offered a picturesque view of the river alongside the mountains. Overall, this collaborative research journey was not just about data collection but also an exploration of diverse ecosystems, cultural histories, and natural wonders, leaving a profound impact on our perspectives.
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