This interdisciplinary course will focus on developing a scientific understanding of natural resources and their use by humans, and how renewable resources are then used, overused, managed and conserved by humans. We will primarily consider modern methods of resource management, including adaptive and ecosystem-based management. The course builds upon knowledge gained in foundation courses, and thus requires experience in at least one of the three disciplines of Anthropology, Biology or Environmental Studies. We will address natural resource and environmental issues from an ecosystem and a policy perspective. Through case studies, readings, class discussions, and knowledge construction, you will learn more about ecosystem ecology and management policies and approaches, and then apply your knowledge to identify management principles that are consistent with a more holistic ecosystem approach to resource management. You will apply your knowledge to develop a case study of use and management of one natural resource.
Prerequisites: One of the following: ANT 101, BIO 112, BIO 114, ENV 201, ENV 202 or permission of both instructors
This course counts for: Major credit in BIO or ANT, credit for ENV depth component in NS (BIO 366) or SS (ANT 382) track, or breadth component in any track (BIO 366 for SS or HUM track, e.g.). You may use this course to count for either depth or breadth, not both.
Textbook: There is no text for this course. Readings will be available on the course Moodle site.
Communication and Technology: Course announcements, reminders, and ecology-in-the-news messages will be conveyed via e-mail and/or Moodle. This course uses Moodle for assignments and readings outside the text. Please be responsible in your use of paper and printing. We encourage you to read assignments electronically whenever possible; but bring your notes to class!