Through a series of lectures, practical exercises, and field trips, students will be introduced to basic concepts in ecology, hydrology, geomorphology, and biogeochemistry as they interrelate within a given ecosystem. These basic concepts will be explored and evaluated for their roles in the restoration, protection, and management of degraded ecosystems. Emphasis will be on ecological interactions and scale-dependent relationships among the physical environment, biota, and ecosystem processes and disturbances. The structure and function of an ecosystem will be discussed and related to real-life situations and projects, as appropriate, through field visits. Relevant models and computerized tools will be demonstrated (e.g., decision support systems, monitoring metrics, etc.).
