Natural History of the Smoky Mountains

Catalog description

This course is offered for biology majors. Learn about air quality, fire management practices, the reintroduction of native species, and elimination of exotic species. You will have the opportunity to conduct a wildlife census and assist park personnel with a resource management project, such as reestablishing a native meadow or ridding a stream of invasive milfoil. Special courses on trees, salamanders, stream ecology, and geology round out the experience. This week of in-depth study and first-hand field experience is perfect for classroom teachers, naturalists, or anyone interested in learning more about the natural world. A pre-trip and post-trip session at Purdue University Northwest is required. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 10100 FOR LEVEL UG WITH MIN. GRADE OF C- OR BIOL 10200 FOR LEVEL UG WITH MIN. GRADE OF C- General Education: Natural Sciences Course Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate familiarity with the animal communities of the Great Smoky Mountains. 2. Recognize the terrestrial and aquatic animal habitats of the Great Smoky Mountains. 3. Recount the geological origins of the Great Smoky Mountains and the impact of these origins on the ecosystems of the park. 4. Discuss the impact of human activities on the Great Smoky Mountains specifically and the natural environment in general. View Class Schedule