Examples of Sound Policy Institute Programs include:
LOCAL WATERSHEDS INFORM SALMON RESTORATION PROJECTS
Students meet with guests representing more than a dozen community groups in the Introduction to the Environment class. Students camp and hike at Mount Rainier National Park and explore field sites throughout the Nisqually and Puyallup River watersheds from headwaters to estuaries. These experiences inform group work on salmon restoration projects.
SAILBOATS AND WIND TURBINES
Quarter unit experiential mini-courses bring students together with the community for field experiences that have included sailing trips focused on marine mammal policy and camping trips to eastern Washington focused on wind, solar, hydro and nuclear power.
HIKING AND LEARNING ON THE PACIFIC TRAIL PROGRAM
Students in this summer learning opportunity plan an expedition style backpacking and climbing trip while learning about the regions geology, ecology and environmental policy.
LEARNING ABOUT THE ALTERNATIVE ENERGY TRANSITION UP CLOSE
Students in the Energy Resources class pursue a study-away experience to learn about the environmental impacts and potential of energy resources in the Columbia Basin and Cascades including geothermal, nuclear, hydrogen, hydropower, wind, solar and waste to energy technologies.
OTHER EVENTS AND PARTNERSHIPS
Sound Policy Institute partners with on- and off-campus groups to host various events throughout the year including environmentally themed films, speakers, panel discussions and workshops.