Mountain views from the Signal Peak trails at sunset
Environment & Sustainability

Coldharbour Institute: Field Experience for a Sustainable Future

Grow your sustainability leadership through community action.

At Coldharbour Institute, students in Western’s Environment & Sustainability program put their knowledge into action. From researching regenerative agriculture and renewable energy to organizing community clean-up days and leading educational workshops, you’ll gain real-world experience in building resilient, sustainable systems. Coldharbour gives you the space to innovate, collaborate, and lead environmental change—right here in the Gunnison Valley.

Coldharbour Website
Rich Stromberg demonstrates how to attach a USB port to a solar panel for some students.

Research and Lead Through Real-World Sustainability Projects

As part of Western’s Environment & Sustainability program, students take their learning beyond the classroom and into the field through hands-on work at Coldharbour Institute. You might conduct research on renewable energy systems, help manage sustainable agriculture projects like Calder Farms, or lead workshops on permaculture and water conservation. One of the program’s signature experiences is working directly on the land—restoring native habitats, tending to livestock, and growing food for the community. Whether you’re exploring environmental science or shaping community resilience, Western gives you the tools, experience, and support to grow as a sustainability leader.

A student uses a screwdriver to remove a junction box on the back of a solar panel while two other students hold the panel up

Work on Real-World Sustainability Projects

Conduct research on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and conservation, applying your knowledge to practical solutions that promote ecological health. Projects may include solar energy studies, regenerative farming trials, or habitat restoration efforts—all aimed at advancing community resilience and sustainable land use.

ENVS 397 students connect with some of the locals at Coldharbour Institute

Develop Collaborative Skills

Partner with faculty, industry professionals, and community organizations to address local environmental challenges, gaining experience in teamwork and project management. These collaborations allow you to take on leadership roles, contribute to interdisciplinary projects, and learn how to navigate real-world sustainability issues.

PV solar panel research at the Coldharbour Institute.

Gain Hands-On Experience

Participate in workshops, seminars, and fieldwork covering topics like permaculture, water conservation, and sustainable food systems, deepening your expertise. You’ll learn from experienced practitioners, gain practical skills, and apply your classroom learning in meaningful, outdoor settings.

Coldharbour's protected areas will remain pristine with its perpetual conservation easement.

Lead Community Initiatives

Take part in student-led sustainability efforts, from organizing clean-up events to launching awareness campaigns that promote environmental responsibility. These initiatives allow you to practice leadership, foster environmental stewardship, and inspire others to take action.

Coldharbour Institute executive director Suzanne Ewy discusses the important role of non profits in environmental action at Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, Colo. during a panel discussion Wednesday, January 18.

Build a Strong Professional Network

Connect with faculty, local experts, and sustainability advocates who can support your career goals and provide mentorship. Through Coldharbour’s network, you’ll gain access to internship opportunities, collaborative research projects, and connections that extend well beyond graduation.

Real-World Roles

Hands-on experience is a core part of the Environment & Sustainability program at Western, and Coldharbour Institute offers students a direct path to apply their skills in meaningful, real-world settings. Whether working locally or contributing to regional and national efforts, students gain the tools and connections needed to launch impactful careers in sustainability.

Here are just a few of the hands-on experiences our students have taken part in:

  • Conducting soil health and crop rotation research at Calder Farms as part of Coldharbour’s regenerative agriculture efforts

  • Assisting with renewable energy system monitoring and data analysis at Coldharbour’s solar research sites

  • Partnering with local nonprofits to lead environmental education workshops and awareness campaigns

  • Helping organize and host community events focused on sustainable living, water conservation, and food systems

  • Participating in national sustainability conferences and field schools with support from Western’s program faculty and partners

These experiences prepare students to become leaders in conservation, policy, nonprofit management, and environmental science.

Scenic aerial picture of Coldharbour Sustainable Living Center and a flooding Tomichi Creek

See sustainability in action.

The best way to get to know Western—and the work happening at Coldharbour Institute—is to experience it firsthand. Schedule a campus visit, explore Coldharbour’s research and education spaces, and meet with a professor from the Environment & Sustainability program. You’ll see how students are driving real change through hands-on environmental work in the Gunnison Valley.

Plan a Visit