Monument Research Symposium 2026

Please join us for this free virtual and in-person event during which the five university student researchers who received grants from our Friends Research Fund in 2025 will present their findings!

This will be a hybrid event taking place in the Science Auditorium (Room 151) of the Southern Oregon University Science Hall and over zoom. A zoom link will be sent out before the event to those who register.

The student presenters this year are:

Aleksandra Kalisz

Assessing the properties, Health, and Management implications of the soils at the CSNM

Alex, a PhD student at OSU, will be researching the soil dynamics of the CSNM through the development of soil catenas. The data collected will be used to predict soil erosion, better understand biogeochemical dynamics, assess soil health, and be included in a collaborative project to develop an interactive map of the CSNM. The project will also be used as a field experience for undergraduate students

Riley Sutphin

Monitoring Meadow Hydrology in the CSNM

Riley, a junior SOU, will be exploring the hydrological qualities of select meadows in the CSNM. He will be monitoring groundwater levels and stream flow, as well as evaluating saturated hydraulic connectivity between several sites. This data will contribute to a better understanding of the Monument’s water budget and have direct implications for meadow restoration strategies.

Andrea Osbon

Pre-Construction Wildlife Camera Trap Monitoring for the Wildlife Overpass in the CSNM

Andrea, a senior at SOU, will be monitoring wildlife activity in the area that will become the I5 Wildlife Overcrossing within the Monument. Through the use of camera traps, this data will provide important baselines and inform the design suitability of the crossing.

The Friends of Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument's mission is to support the protection, restoration and conservation of the Monument through service, advocacy and education. Our Hike and Learn programs are designed to introduce the public to different topics and locations within the Monument. Hike and Learns are co-created with local scientists, historians, artists, students, and more.

Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Ashland, Arts events in Ashland.