Become a member
A page within River Studies Center
Become an RSC member
We appreciate the value of bringing professionals together, including River Studies Center members, state and regional partners, and national/international audiences in a spirit of inclusive excellence. If you think the RSC is a fit with your professional interests, you are encouraged to submit a short membership application that explains your alignment with the RSC mission.
The RSC is currently only soliciting applications from UWL faculty and staff and emeritus faculty.
Contact Director Dr. Eric Strauss if you have questions about becoming an RSC member.
History
The River Studies Center was created in 1972 as a non-curricular unit focusing on the Upper Mississippi River (UMR). With the generous support of Prairie Springs: The Paul Fleckenstein Trust, the RSC entered an exciting new era of research and education on the Mississippi River with the launch of Research Vessel Prairie Springs in 2023. The Rada Endowed Fellowships in River Studies further transformed the RSC in 2025 by providing critical funding to support faculty time, research and outreach tied to the Upper Mississippi River and its ecosystems.
Mission
The RSC recognizes that the UMR and all freshwater ecosystems are vital to the environmental, cultural, and economic health of the nation. Our mission is to conduct and collaboratively support research, creative activities, public outreach, and other endeavors related to the UMR and its connected ecosystems. Our central efforts are to:
- Prepare future scholars and professionals by creating experiential learning opportunities related to river systems
- Engage professional partners and community members in river-related research and other activities
- Contribute to the protection and promotion of freshwater ecosystems
View the bylaws to learn more about the RSC and its structure.
Voting Members
Being a voting member of the RSC entails certain rights, privileges, and expectations as specified in the bylaws and summarized below.
Rights and Privileges
- Eligible for RSC-specific funding sources
- Priority use of the Research Vessel Prairie Springs and other RSC boats
- Access to dedicated RSC spaces, equipment, merchandise, etc.
- Opportunity to work and network with a multidisciplinary group of individuals whose work relates to the Upper Mississippi River or its connected ecosystems
- Chance to engage in university-level leadership and service
- Continue a 50-year tradition of river-related excellence
Expectations
- Attend two membership meetings per semester, schedule permitting
- Participate in half- to full-day retreats held each summer and winter
- Provide service to the university and/or regional community through engagement in RSC activities, projects, events, etc.
- Maintain professional activities or interests which align with the RSC mission
- Represent and promote the RSC
Emeritus members
Rights and privileges
- Receive communications and annual reports from the River Studies Center, staying “in the loop” regarding RSC activities
- Invitation to RSC retreats each summer and winter
- Continue a 50-year tradition of river-related excellence
Potential opportunities
- Work and network with a multidisciplinary group of individuals whose work relates to the Upper Mississippi River or its connected ecosystems
- May be invited to serve on the External Advisory Board
- Provide feedback on RSC strategic decision-making and initiatives
- Represent and promote the RSC as appropriate
R/V Prairie Springs at Eagle Fest
RSC Retreat in August 2025
RSC Retreat in December 2025