Collaborative for Socio-Ecological Engagement
Overview
The Collaborative for Socio-Ecological Engagement (CoSEE) is a UW Bothell-affiliated environmental research and education center that works in partnership with faculty and students, local schools, community members, and organizations to co-design and co-lead place-based research and education efforts in our region.
Events & programs
Our mission
CoSEE advances interdisciplinary research in sustainability, environmental justice, and community resilience. We connect scientists, educators, and community partners to promote social and ecological thriving through field studies, community-engaged research, place-based creative practices, youth and family outreach, and K–12 collaborations.
Location
We are located at the Environmental Education and Research Center (EERC) at St. Edward State Park in Kenmore, Washington. Saint Edward State Park (SESP) is a highly visited Urban Gateway Park near UW Bothell. It features diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, streams, and the lake’s longest undeveloped shoreline. With over 800,000 annual visitors, the park serves as a prime location for outdoor education, community research, and environmental outreach. Its proximity to urban areas makes it a vital natural space amid the growing Northshore region. Learn more about the EERC and reserve the classroom.
Internships
CoSEE offers a variety of project-based internship pathways that connect environmental education, research, conservation and community outreach. We are currently accepting applications. Learn more about internships with CoSEE.
Community engagement
Through partnerships with the local community, including nature walks with Washington State Parks and our 101 Program Series, we offer youth, family, and community science programs, as well as school collaborations, providing hands-on experiences with local ecosystems. We collaborate with partners like Friends of Saint Edward State Park, FHNA, the Alyssa Burnett Center, local schools, and agencies to offer a variety of public partnership opportunities, including:
- Co-hosting events and workshops
- Community-engaged research and citizen science intitiatives
- Developing K-12 educational programs and outdoor learning experiences
- Supporting conservation and restoration projects
If you’re interested in partnering with CoSEE, contact us at cosee@uw.edu to explore opportunities for impactful, place-based learning experiences!
Education resources
We are proud to provide a range of educational materials to encourage scientific knowledge and inquiry, all free of charge. Our offerings are continually expanding, so be sure to check back or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on new additions. Explore our education resources.
Research
CoSEE supports interdisciplinary research around supporting just and thriving socio-ecological systems, focusing on sustainability, environmental justice and community resilience. Through participatory research, education and outreach, CoSEE brings together scientists, educators and local stakeholders to develop solutions that promote ecological health and social well-being in the region. Learn more about research projects at CoSEE.
Reserve the EERC classrooom
CoSEE is housed at the Environmental Education and Research Center (EERC). The EERC is a dedicated and recently renovated 2,700 square foot facility located within the boundaries of Saint Edward State Park (SESP), on the northeast shore of Lake Washington and approximately six miles from the UW Bothell campus. This recently renovated facility in the gym annex of the lodge at SESP was built with learning and sustainability in mind and includes a 2,000 square-foot classroom and office space and a 700 square-foot open learning area adjacent to the indoor space.
The EERC classroom is available for reservation in full- and half-day blocks. The classroom offers flexible seating for up to 42 people, with moveable tables perfect for group work and collaboration. The room features multiple whiteboards, a ceiling-mounted projector and screen, a desktop computer with internet access, and Wi-Fi for all devices (login provided). A kitchenette is available with a fridge, microwave, kettle, coffee maker, sink, and reusable mugs—just bring your own coffee, tea, and other supplies. The classroom has ramp access but no automatic door openers. A first aid kit and emergency-use printer are on hand, though we recommend bringing any teaching or office materials you’ll need.
Contact us
For general inquiries related to day-to-day organization, structure and planning for CoSEE, contact us at cosee@uw.edu. As the CoSEE team grows, so does our space, our events and our list of community resources.
Stay connected with CoSEE!
Join our mailing list to receive our monthly newsletter, get information about upcoming events and programming, and learn about opportunities to serve and engage in the community.
Recent News
A more meaningful map
Apr 11, 2025
Student-led mapping effort in Saint Edward State Park forges deeper connections between the land and the communities — both human and non — that rely on it.
read more about the student-led mapping effort in SESP
Stories that turn climate anxiety into hope
Jan 16, 2025
Students in a Discovery Core class harness the power of storytelling to teach ecology to the next generation.
read the article to learn more
Dr. Veronica Cassone McGowan named inaugural director of new UW Bothell research center
Jan 9, 2025
CoSEE advances our understanding of the dynamic connections between ecological systems and social systems.
read the article and learn more about Dr. McGowan