the Western Slope Institute
Living Systems Thinking for Bioregional Regeneration
Durango - Colorado
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An accredited college field semester and research institute dedicated to
bioregional regeneration
Our work focuses on the health and vitality of socio-ecological systems—the dynamic, interdependent relationships between living ecosystems and human communities.Guided by PhD-led research and established regenerative frameworks, WSI moves beyond conventional sustainability toward an active, design-based, place-informed approach to regional health. We operate at the intersection of theory and practice, using the greater San Juan Watershed as our broader context and the Animas River Watershed as a living laboratory for education, applied research, and regenerative intervention.
College Field Semester in
Regenerative Design
Live. Learn. Design. Transform.
The College Field Semester in Regenerative Design is a 16-credit immersive experience for university students who want to learn by doing. Over 16 weeks in Southwestern Colorado, students live in community, travel through national parks, take part in wilderness expeditions, engage with Indigenous communities, and collaborate on real regenerative design projects with partner organizations. This is education rooted in experience as much as knowledge, combining field learning with academic rigor.​​
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Bioregional
Regeneration research
The Western Slope Institute is engaged in research that draws from the fields of sustainability education, regenerative development and design, bioregional regeneration, socio-ecological systems, nature-based human development, rites of passage, land-education, and social network analysis.
We conduct longitudinal research on bioregional indicators, identifying the leverage points where design can most effectively evolve the health of the watershed. This research serves as the intellectual foundation for our semester curriculum highlighting local potential and informing the focus of each semester's capstone project.
Regenerative practices Consulting
We offer tailored consulting services designed to support organizations in adopting regenerative practices and principles. Our approach is rooted in deep collaboration, systems thinking, and place-based solutions that align with ecological health, social equity, and long-term resilience.
Whether you're looking to redesign organizational systems, or embed regenerative practices and thinking into your culture and operations, we work closely with your team to co-create strategies that are practical, impactful, and future-focused. Our goal is not only to minimize harm, but to help your organization become a positive force for regeneration in your community and beyond.​​
