BIOL 345

Ecosystem Ecology and Management

The lives of human beings and countless other creatures are sustained by the goods and services resulting from the proper functioning of earths ecosystems. As the human population places increasing pressure on these systems, the need for their careful stewardship and management grows. This course provides a detailed study of ecosystem structure and function, with special emphasis on local ecosystems, and the scientific basis for managing and restoring ecosystems. Specific topics include energy flow and nutrient cycling, biodiversity and endangered species management, conservation genetics, population dynamics, landscape ecology, and human dimensions of ecosystem management. Lectures, laboratories, case studies, and field investigations

Units: 4.0